subject: Get Moving And Get Over Your Loneliness [print this page] For some loneliness is a fleeting emotion that passes like a cloud, while for others it is more pervasive and stays with us like a fog. For either side, there are specific strategies and actions that let us cope with loneliness and stay present, grounded and positive.
Combatting Loneliness with Action
There is nothing wrong with being alone and nothing wrong with inactivity. That is unless one is feeling lonely. Activity has two positive effects in healing loneliness: first, action diverts our thoughts from dwelling on negative attitudes, thoughts and emotions; second, action that actually has some positive impact on others also reestablishes our connection with humankind and is one of a number of proven loneliness cures.
Activities to Fight Loneliness
At the end of the day, any simple activity works in healing loneliness. Here are a few ideas:
Clean-up and Organize
Cleaning and organizing the household is great way to take your mind of things and improve one's surroundings. This activity is perfect as it isn't completely "mindless" but doesn't require deep thought and concentration. Cleaning in particular not only has the short-term benefit of keeping one busy, but of course your surroundings and health benefits, too. Organizing will get rid of clutter and often going through things can remind us better times and spur us to more action.
Volunteering
One of the main issues with loneliness is that the feeling often comes when we feel disconnected from others and feel dissatisfied with our relationships. If we feel we've been rejected, it is often difficult to put ourselves out and make the effort to reconnect with friends and family. Volunteering is the perfect antidote for this feeling as these days, there are plenty of opportunities to help. Also, the possibility of "rejection" is almost zero. So find a cause or organization and make contact. Volunteering is a perfect activity; not only does it take one's mind off troubles while working, but doing good for others is a proven loneliness treatment. So get out and do some good!
Exercise and Health
This is a sure fire cure for loneliness, even if you do it alone! Exercise can be as simple as taking a walk or hike and enjoying and connecting with the outside. Doing it alone is fine (remember alone and lonely aren't the same thing), but better yet, find a companion to go along. Taking an exercise class is also a great way to connect and get healthy. It can be expensive to join a gym, but many community centers, churches and other venues have drop in classes for yoga, dancing, Zumba and all kinds of different classes. You'll also likely end up making a few friends as you get healthier.
Get a Pet
Pets provide companionship and unconditional love. Since the beginning of time humans have benefited from support from animals. Caring for a pet - feeding, cleaning, exercise - also make us happy and active. If you're unsure about committing to the time and care requirements for a pet, combine this with volunteerism. If one has a friend with a pet, offer to take on some duties, perhaps while the owner is at work or away. Also, Animal-assisted Therapy (AAT) is becoming popular at hospitals, senior centers and anywhere people have a need for contact. This can be a worthwhile endeavor for many trying to overcome loneliness.
Activity is a surefire cure for loneliness. Taking action has multifold benefit by taking one's mind off troubles and doing good in the long run. So do something! It's the best cure going.
