By: Rosana Sotile, Chopra Certified Well-Being Coach

For as long as humankind has existed, we’ve survived as a pack-race; living as tribes for not only protection, but for provision of basic human needs, such as gathering food and water, and caring for the young.

Fast forward to today, we sit behind computers, using modern technology to have our provisions delivered right to our doorstep. Our connections with others have faded away from the warmth of the campfire circle toward the bright glare of an artificial screen.

This is why now, more than ever, conscious communities are so important. One of our most fundamental biological needs is to feel that we belong. Being accepted for who we are sits at the core of our self-worth and greatly impacts our mental health. It has been shown that supportive communities foster a sense of belonging and understanding, reducing feelings of isolation and unworthiness, and lead to decreased crime and increased civic engagement.  Likewise, shared experiences within a group of people (both good and bad experiences) create avenues for empathy, encouragement, and growth, which are crucial for maintaining mental and emotional health.

So, what does a “conscious community” look like and how do we create one?

• Emphasize mindfulness and empathy. Members are mindful of their interactions with others and provide non-judgmental empathy when needed. For example, if someone in your group announced the death of a loved one, you would be mindful of expressing your empathy during your next interaction with them.

• Shared values that nurture the well-being of individuals and the group as a whole. This might look like members serving others who are in need, regardless of any societal standards or preconceived prejudices. Before, during and after a major disaster, does it really matter which side of the railroad tracks you live on?

• Establish a mindset of collective growth. As we become more self-aware and realize how much impact we have on others, the more the community grows. It grows in a direction of authentic contribution where the members recognize what works best to serve others in need, and then expands its efforts to include and serve even more. 

Incorporating group meditations will also help cultivate a closer connection through a shared experience. When we meditate with others at the same time, we create a collective coherence that extends beyond our personal self and is shared by the energetic bodies around us. We can raise the vibrational frequency of the collective group and promote healing on a much more profound level.

Take a look at those around you and the people you spend the most time with. What are some ways you can cultivate more mindfulness and awareness with these people? What areas are lacking? And where is there the most connection?

Let's continue the conversation and self-healing! I have a collection of FREE guided meditations and affirmations exclusively for my Sacred Space Digest members. Sign up for my free weekly wellness guide and get access TODAY!

Rosana Sotile is the founder of Sacred Space Health, LLC and holds certifications as a Well-Being Coach, Primordial Sound Meditation Instructor, and an Ayurveda Health Instructor from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition and Chopra Education. She has a passion for helping people discover their inner sacred space and embrace the power of manifesting new realities. She also enjoys spending her free time in nature, especially at home in South Louisiana with her four children and one cat.

Rosana can be reached at info@rosanasotile.com, or direct message on LinkedIn