Many things that cannot be counted do count.

Unrest, anger and despair in the world…social connection has been on my mind, a lot lately.

With the new mantras of stay at home, be safe and social distance branded into our cultural dialogue, it somehow feels like heresy to talk about the need for connection and intimate human interactions with others. 

Yes, we do need to keep our communities safe and our health care system intact, but I also worry we are losing an essential part of our humanity, health and wellbeing as we shut ourselves away in our homes, hide behind masks, resist voicing unpopular opinions, lose our ability to breathe in fresh air, argue with neighbors, feel helpless in the wake of conflicting government demands, and fear everyone around us as potential germ enemies. Riots and violence are a natural consequence under these strained conditions. A mental health pandemic has arrived.

Will the cure ultimately create more dis-ease?

Our bodies and minds are suffering—as we see close up now with racism in our country. Over the past few years, scientists have been studying how the social experience of race translates directly into disparities in health. They believe that chronic stress may be one of the key ways that racism contributes to these disparities. For example, one study of black women found that stress from frequent racist encounters is associated with chronic, low-grade inflammation. Inflammation is the root of most modern, chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease, which black people suffer disproportionately from. 

Multiple studies over the years have also proven that lack of social connection is a greater detriment to health than obesity, smoking and high blood pressure.   Strong social bonds with others, however, lead to a 50% increased chance of longevity and a strengthened immune system.  Anxiety and worry can systematically increase the risk of infection and disease.

The research of Dr. Steve Cole from the University of CA, Davis and University of Chicago shows that genes impacted by loneliness also code for immune function and inflammation, so more social interaction can help you stay healthier and recover from disease faster – and may even lengthen your life! I think about all my elderly neighbors, clients and family members who now aren’t allowed to have visitors in an effort to “protect” their health. Is this wise for their health and well-being in the long-term?

It’s no surprise that people who feel more connected to others and less alienated in their communities have lower levels of anxiety and depression, higher self-esteem, more robust health, and greater empathy.  Social connectedness generates a positive feedback loop of social, emotional and physical well-being.    

I have two teenage daughters, one about to graduate from high school, the other moving on from middle school.  It has been beyond heartbreaking for me to witness their disappointment from cancelled school, proms, graduation ceremonies, team sports, summer trips, camps, and all of the other rites of passage children around the world are missing right now.   I’m watching the transformation of two vibrant, positive, active young women who had a full social schedule with good friends, now sinking into depression as they sit in their rooms day after day staring at their devices, just trying to stay distracted.   I can barely get them out for hikes or outings anymore…they are just plain tired of being with family.  I get it. This is hard for everyone.

We are all growing weary of the same restrictive routine and limited interactions.  Humans are meant to be positively connected and accepted by other humans, or we suffer major consequences.

I won’t tell you at this point to get on another Zoom call, but I will suggest you begin thinking more about the effects of social isolation on your own health and how you can reclaim some of your freedom to choose what is right for you and your family, based on plain common sense and also personal dignity.    I respect any and all choices anyone is making in their lives, as we all have different circumstances that require managing risk.  At some point soon we all do need human touch and love, and far less fear, if we are going to survive in this wild world.   

I made the decision to become an acupuncturist and healer over 25 years years ago so I could help others and I am committed to staying on this path.   As a result of the recent changes in healthcare regulations and the economic reality of practicing in a high rent community, I am now changing my practice and schedule to better serve you and also stay in business.  

As of June 1st I will be moving to a more limited schedule on Mondays and Thursdays and will be seeing patients in a new office space….not far away, right next door to my former clinic in Raymond Himmel’s office at 147 Lomita Drive, Suite C.   This bright, new clinic space will not only bring fresh energy to my work, but also create more needed spacing between clients.  My community treatments at lower rates will be done now in private rooms during limited hours, so please book online early. Read here for the clinic changes that are taking place and know that your health, safety and sanity is my priority right now.   

Please email me with any questions and if you are struggling financially, know I will do my best to accommodate you with a sliding scale as needed. Your health is worth it!

I am hoping you will take this time to start re-emerging from your homes and focus on personal care, human connection and an energetic reboot so you can be a part of the healing that so desperately needs to take place collectively in our world.   

In peace, connection and love,

Amie