Loneliness is something I have experienced many times in my life. Living in a country that I am not originally from, without family or a support system, has often intensified these feelings.
Over time, I realized that true connection is not about being surrounded by many people but about being with those who genuinely resonate with our energy and love, including YOURSELF.
There is still a stigma around discussing loneliness, as many of us feel uncomfortable admitting or sharing that we experience it at times. I believe this is a struggle that many people around the world face.
Because of the work I do, I have also especially noticed it among men, where there is often a lack of space or comfort to express feelings of internal loneliness.
I know how isolating it can feel, but if there is one thing I have learned, it’s that loneliness, while painful, is not permanent, and more importantly, even if you have no one, you are never truly alone.
The Effects of Loneliness
Loneliness is not just an emotion; it affects us on a deep level, mentally, emotionally, and even physically. It can lead to anxiety, stress, and a sense of emptiness that makes even the simplest tasks feel difficult. Over time, chronic loneliness can affect self-esteem and even our health, making us feel drained, unmotivated, or disconnected from the world.
Loneliness is not a reflection of your worth. It is not proof that you are unloved or that something is wrong with you. It is a human experience, one that many of us face, even those who appear to have a full life.
Why Do We Feel Lonely?
There are many reasons why loneliness shows up in our lives. Sometimes it’s triggered by external changes such as moving to a new city, losing a loved one, a break up or feeling out of place in social circles. Other times, it comes from within, from a deeper feeling of disconnection from ourselves.
Society often tells us that to be happy, we need to constantly be surrounded by people, in a relationship, or engaged in social activities. But loneliness isn’t just about physical solitude, it’s about feeling unseen or misunderstood, even in a crowded room.
And that’s why one of the most important relationships we will ever have is the one with ourselves.
The Relationship Within
From the moment we are born until the moment we take our last breath, we are with ourselves. That means the most significant connection we will ever have is the one within. Learning to be at peace with your own company, to accept your thoughts rather than run from them, to speak kindly to yourself, this is where healing begins.
Not everyone believes in divine guidance, but I truly believe there is always a higher force with us throughout our journey. Whether you see it as the Universe, God, guardian angels, ancestors, or the love of those who have passed, there is always support around you. Even if you don’t feel it, it’s there, and this is something that has truly helped me over the past few years.
Finding Connection and Community
There are some ways we can all try to improve feeling isolated:
- Join a Community: Find a local group or online space that aligns with your interests, whether it’s a book club, a sports team, a meditation circle, or a creative class. Shared interests create genuine connections.
- Volunteer: Giving back not only helps others but also creates a deep sense of purpose and connection.
- Engage in Conversations: Sometimes, simply saying hello to a stranger or reaching out to an old friend can open the door to connections.
- Practice Self-Compassion: Talk to yourself as you would a loved one. Be gentle, patient, and understanding with your own emotions.
- Seek Support: Coaching, therapy or spiritual guidance can help navigate deep feelings of loneliness and create a space for healing.
A Space for You: Loneliness Meditation
I have created a guided Loneliness Meditation to help you through moments when you feel disconnected.
This meditation is a safe space for you to acknowledge your feelings and to gently release them. You are not alone: I am here with you in this meditation. Throughout this practice, you will be reminded of the support and connection that always surrounds you.
Know that this feeling of connection, of being supported, is something you can return to anytime. I am here to guide you and share this moment with you. Remember this light, this support, and this moment of peace.
You Are Not Alone
If you are struggling with loneliness right now, please know this: it will get better. There is love, connection, and purpose waiting for you.
The world needs you, your energy, your presence. You are worthy of connection, and you are never truly alone.
With love and light,
Estefanía
