Dancing in the Streets
“Summer’s here and the time is right for dancing in the streets…” – Martha and the Vandella’s famously sang over 60 years ago. And the world agreed. The song became an anthem, covered by another half dozen artists decade after decade. They were right. Summer is a great time for dancing in the streets!
I love summer and have been pining for it in earnest since November. I yearn for the long sunny and yes, hot days of summer. I love spending mornings on the back deck with a cup of coffee and my journal or a good book or just enjoying the sound of the birds and the squirrels as they rustle through the trees. In my book, summer has historically meant time on and in the water, street fairs, music festivals, and all things social. But…
But… this year, I find myself thinking more about what I can do around the house rather than how full I can pack my social calendar. It is alarming and disconcerting. Who have I become? Never one to purposely isolate, I have had to push myself out the door more often this year than any time I can remember. I find myself keeping my head down.
For the first time in my life, I started grouping outings and obligations together so I can avoid leaving my house for days at a time. I barely recognize myself! Never one to turn down a social invitation, I have noticed a slight feeling of relief when I see a conflict in my datebook and have to decline an event that feels like too much trouble, too far, too late, too crowded, and yes, too hot. I feel like an imposter! Where did the fun-never-say-no-girl go? What is happening to me? Honestly, it is concerning.
I not only understand, but also, regularly, tout the importance of a robust social life.
Being social comes with many proven health benefits. I know this. A hearty social life reduces feelings of loneliness and isolation, lowers the risk of depression and anxiety, boosts self-esteem and confidence, and can provide a sense of purpose and belonging.
As illustrated during the pandemic a mere five years ago, friends and social connections are game changers between muddling through and thriving when otherwise forced to isolate. Having a circle of people to commune with can prove quite valuable in challenging times.
Studies have shown that a strong social network can also improve cognitive function.
And a busy social life can reduce stress and boost your mood. Spending time interacting with friends has even been linked to a good night’s sleep. Maybe that is simply exhaustion, but hitting your head on the pillow reflecting on a day of fun and frivolity is a great way to get some rest.
And get this: studies have linked strong social connections to a reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, and other illnesses, and may increase longevity. Simply put, research has shown that people with strong social connections tend to live longer and more satisfying lives.
I know these things. So, what is the hold up? I hate to say it out loud, but age may be playing a factor here. I find myself less likely to be spontaneous once I am home and lounging, a last minute ask feels more like a chore.
And at the end of the day, sometimes, I find I am tired! For most of my life I have labelled myself a night owl but some time in my recent past, a shift has taken place. I find myself up with the sun and for the first time in a very long time, naps have become appealing.
Again, who is this person? I barely recognize myself. It may be that my fear of missing out (fomo) genes has finally matured and honestly, I am not sure I like it.
It’s not like there are a lack of options. It takes very little effort to find an activity, or other event on any given day to attend and again, now that it is summer, the list of is endless.
Sure, there are plenty of annual events that offer a lot of the same things to do and often the same people to see but that can offer comfort rather than boredom. The only way to find out is to venture out! And there are certainly plenty of things to do that I have not yet attempted.
I understand that for many of us, going to something alone can be daunting and the older I get the more often others in my circle are choosing to stay home as well, so I just need to be a little bit brave and find the impetus to attend anyway!
There are plenty of activities to try, from sipping and painting, to hiking unexplored trails, to volunteering for different organizations as a way to meet some new like-minded people.
When I take a moment to look up and see what is happening in the world, (the big picture,) things seem a bit out of control, so cultivating a sense of community is more important than ever. There is no need to feel helpless or alone. Finding a cause to support can also be invigorating. It may be time to hone new skills like participating in a community garden and I’ve noticed a rise in the popularity of sign making, chanting, and “line dancing”!
Turns out being social is good for your health and with earlier sunrises and later sunsets, it is easier than ever to find “records playing, people singing and swaying and dancing in the street.”
xo, Hollie
