Hello Kimberly!

Since downsizing, Glen and I have found new ways to create intentional space — including outdoors! We’ve been building a catio for Niko, Romi, and Annemiek — a screened-in deck where they can enjoy fresh air without the risks of the wild outdoors. It’s been a project of patience and teamwork, one piece at a time. And while it’s far from perfect, it’s been a blessing.

Some of my favorite moments have been the quality time Glen and I shared while building — brainstorming, laughing, and finding joy even when the screws don’t line up right. I realized again how important connection is — not just with people, but with purpose.

It reminded me how we were made for relationship, and this month we’re diving into just that: meaningful social connection, one of the six pillars of lifestyle medicine and a beautiful pathway toward healing.

Here’s to a connected and vibrant August!

Connection Heals Pain and Inflammation

Did you know that the brain registers social isolation like physical pain? In one study [Eisenberger, 2012], scans of the brain revealed corresponding pathways when people experienced isolation, the same regions that light up during actual physical pain. Loneliness is perceived as a threat in the body and signals the nervous system to act with fight or flight. It can even be seen on blood work. That’s how deeply God wired us for relationship.

It’s no wonder that chronic isolation increases inflammation, just like injury, stress, or lack of sleep. After all, when we’re disconnected, we miss the emotional regulation and immune benefits that come with meaningful interactions.

Whether it’s hiking with a friend, laughing over dinner, or even snuggling with your furry friend, positive relationships can reduce your pain, increase joy, and build resilience.

The bottom line?
Your tribe matters. And if the people around you aren’t helping you grow in joy, patience, peace, gentleness, curiosity, honesty, or hope — maybe it’s time to find or build a healthier circle.

Build Your Connection Ritual

Connection doesn't have to be complicated. Try this:

• Pick one person in your life you'd like to reconnect with. Text them now.
• Start a connection ritual — coffee on the porch every Thursday? A weekly walk? A game night?
• If you're more introverted or cautious post-pandemic, start with a virtual meet-up or group message that shares uplifting content or prayer requests or alot time with a furry friend

Bonus idea: Volunteer together — shared purpose deepens bonds!

Need a spark? Ask: “What’s been giving you life lately?”
You’ll be amazed how quickly something beautiful unfolds.

Upcoming:

Let me know what you might like to see: a group zoom meeting to review a pillar or topic, a local cooking class and what social media platform or online presence you might like to see me start up. I am here for you and want to be accessible in ways that are meaningful for you.

Let’s Connect!

Website: HopeandHealingLifestyle.com
Free Resource: Download my “4 Steps to Hope and Healing” to start your wellness journey
Schedule: Virtual Coffee Chat or if you’re a Local In-person Coffee Chat to check out what is going on or perhaps some suggestions and if you want to talk about an accountability partner you can book a Find Your Energy Discovery Session with me.
Partnering: Want to collaborate or introduce someone to me? Just reply or schedule an applicable coffee chat

Final Thought

What’s one way you enjoy connecting with someone you care about?
Is it time to reach out, rekindle, or deepen something valuable?

This month, may your connections bring healing, your conversations bring light, and your relationships restore your heart — and your health.

Be connected. Be courageous. Be blessed.
Kim

A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple braided cord is not easily broken. Ecclesiastes 4:12 NLT