Caring for bonds is also caring for yourself

When we talk about health, we immediately think about the health of the body and the mind, but what about the social dimension of health? How are our relationships? This dimension also contributes to our integral health.

An important premise to consider is that we are social beings. Since birth, we grow up needing the care of other people, and it is in this encounter with the other that we learn to be who we are, in difference. The human being is not built alone: we depend on the collective around us to strengthen ourselves and develop our potential.

However, it is not always easy to care for the bonds we have in a system that demands an exaggerated level of productivity from us. Many times, we are just trying to keep up with everything and, in this process, we move away from the social cores that strengthen who we are, a movement that can lead to isolation. We have time for almost everything, except for being with those we love and cultivating our meaningful relationships.

Presence is a gift. We need the presence of those we love, and it is important to be present, within our possibilities, in the lives of those who love us. It is in these spaces of exchange and mutual support that we manage to be whole, without needing to disguise what we feel. When we cultivate these relationships, we not only strengthen ourselves, but we also care for each other, developing relationships that nourish.

The invitation is simple: While reading this, did you remember someone? If possible, send a message, call, or write a letter. Remember your loved ones and communicate this. Being in a network is a human necessity.

– Article by Ingrid Pereira, a Brazilian LALíder