When was the last time you felt heard? Felt understood and appreciated? Worry that life is passing by?

Pre-pandemic days weren’t necessarily perfect but there was predictability. There was some comfort in knowing the daily patterns of work and living, routines that had their own life forces. Then suddenly, there was uncertainty.

Flexible working conditions oiled the wheels of industry yet changed the culture of work; the blurring of work-life patterns, virtual communication, and disconnection from the physical work arena. Not knowing gradually became a new normal. Populations and workforces adapted and functioned.

Coming to terms with the disruption, it provided some space to re-examine who we are and what we want, but it also led to fear, stress, and worry. As a species, connection is how we survive hence is normal to spend time and energy pushing for this fulfilment; yet voids of emptiness persist.  Even when surrounded by loved ones, loss created by social isolation and loneliness can exist. And this is contagious. We all experience, feel, and adapt to vibes, whether upbeat or hushed and quiet. Likewise, the effects of emotional pain unconsciously spread, negatively affecting our physical health and performance. Paradoxically, there is withdrawal with increasingly fragmented social connections. A cocktail of conflict, guilt and shame suppress our feelings and disrupt our sleep. We are stressed, frustrated, stuck . . . and need help.