The other day I was listening to a podcast about origin stories - those defining experiences and influences that shape who we are.

I had never really thought about mine before, but something clicked. 

I started wondering:

What parts of my path, my talents, and my passions were seeded by the people and experiences that came before me?

Before I dive in, you might be thinking:

What does this have to do with health?

The short answer: everything.

Because our stories shape our thoughts, our actions, and our emotions. 

And all of those are directly connected to our health. How we feel, how we move forward, how we connect with others and ourselves - these are the threads that tie together emotional, mental, and physical well-being.

A client of mine recently had a powerful realization. 

After months of working on strategies to improve her nutrition, exercise, and sleep regimens, she had an epiphany during one of our final sessions: what she needed most to support her well-being was a vibrant, supportive community. 

She committed to stepping outside her comfort zone and prioritizing this foundation of well-being.

Her story stuck with me because it reflects something so many of us feel but don’t always name: we’re missing true connection. Our communities —and the oxytocin-fueled connection they provide - are essential for long-term health.

It’s why the outgoing Surgeon General’s recent warning about the crisis of disconnection resonates so deeply.