Loneliness @ 1,000 friends
It’s one of the biggest paradoxes of our time. Through technology, it’s never been easier to be in contact with other people. But in reality, as many studies have shown, our dependency on screen time is causing our relationships with one another to become increasingly weaker.
Research has shown that spending a lot of time on social media sites can be associated with feelings of loneliness and isolation, which can have a negative impact on your health.
We’re Farther Apart Than In The Past
Compared to the “old days”, we often live far away from family members and friends. Technology can be very helpful in maintaining contact and relationships with loved ones and definitely has value. However, when it’s used to excess in place of face-to-face interaction it has the opposite effect of making us feel more isolated.
We’re social creatures, after all, and we have an innate need and desire to feel connected to others.
How to Rx Your Feels
If you know you could use more in-person socializing in your life, we can help. Not only will you improve your fitness by training with us, but you’ll also get to interact with coaches and other members and quickly see we’re not your typical anti-social gym.
You’ll get the chance to truly get to know the people you see everyday, and forge long-lasting friendships in the process. We’re as much a social club as we are a place to workout.
If you’re new to the city and interested in meeting new people, you won’t find a more supportive group of successful, fun, and inspirational people than at The Foundry. There have even been five Foundry inspired marriages (but if you are number six please don’t move away)!
Tips to Reduce Device Dependency
If you’re already part of our community, but feel like you’re still buried in your phone during most of your waking hours of the day, here are three more tips for ensuring you get your dose of social time each day:
- Join an Activity: Find something that interests you, or join one of ours. We frequently establish teams for local events and others around the country, including Spartan Races, Triathlons, Ragnar Races, CrossFit Competitions, and more.
- Powering Down: Create some time in your day where you put your phone away, and don’t check it. Read a book, or talk with a loved one and really listen to what they have to say. Notice the difference in your ability to pay attention and feel gratitude for receiving REAL like/love from those you care about, rather than virtual likes from your acquaintances. Start by leaving your phone in your bag at the gym. Make this hour distraction-free and get the most out of your workout.
- Engage With Others: When was the last time you struck up a conversation with someone at the coffee shop you visit each morning? Or how about that person in class you don’t know that well? You might learn something new, have something in common, or work in the same industry, and you’re likely to make a new friend as well. There is something to be gained from every IN-PERSON human interaction, and friendly social connections to boost your morale and outlook on life.
Technology is a wonderful tool that makes many things in life easier. Just be careful not to substitute it for real life interaction with others and the opportunity to make a lasting impact on their lives!