Building “deep community” in the outdoors

I don’t know about you, but I have definitely felt the effects of isolation over the past two years of this pandemic. As the world continues to reopen and I try to restart some semblance of a social life, I sometimes find that I am re-teaching myself how to be out in public again - fighting back anxiety about how many other people are around me and not wanting to get sick, but trying to enjoy getting back out and experiencing life again.

Looking for some guidance, I recently read Brad Stulberg’s new book, The Practice of Groundedness. He discusses modern challenges like burnout, anxiety, loneliness, and more - and how incorporating principles of groundedness into our lives can help us feel more fulfilled and build our sense of self. One of these key principles is building what Stulberg calls “deep community” - close bonds to other people, traditions, places, and more that provide a sense of belonging. 

I hadn’t thought much about this concept before, but it makes sense - and loneliness, like many of us felt over the last two years, can seriously damage our physical and mental health. And while the proliferation of digital technology and social media can allow us to reach more people in new ways (and certainly has benefits during global health crises that prevent us from seeing one another), Stulberg says nothing can replace in-person connection.

When thinking about how to build more of that in-person connection and deep community in my own life, spending time in the outdoors immediately came to mind. Research increasingly shows the many health benefits of getting outside - reduced stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure, and yes, reduced loneliness. It gives us the opportunity not only to experience the world around us, but also to find community with like-minded people. (This is where social media can be helpful, says Stulberg. It’s easier than ever to find and join groups to forge connections with in real life through things like Meetup, Facebook groups, volunteer organizations, etc.) 

I know that I feel most grounded when spending time with others in nature. Camping and hiking trips are how I built some of my most meaningful friendships. Hitting the local trails with our dog is how I connect with my partner. Trips to the ocean with my family are some of my favorite childhood memories. Being a part of HerChesapeake allows me to connect with like-minded people who care about our environment.

Though I’m still getting the hang of this new normal phase of the pandemic, building deep community outside is one of the best things each of us can do to improve our wellbeing and find fulfillment in our lives.

You can find more of Brad Stulberg’s writing about groundedness and other subjects at Outside Online.