Connect

Connection is a vital part of human flourishing. In the world today, we have to consciously make decisions to reconnect to ourselves, to the people we love, to nature and to the community at large. Connection can also include making a conscious choice to connect and nurture our relationship to all the aspects of ourselves. Learning how to connect to self and others is an art that can be mastered through practice. Here are some ways to foster connection:

Ways to Connect on a Deeper Level

Inspire Cards
Take your conversations deeper with the Inspiring Children Foundation’s conversation cards, created by ICF youth. These prompts are designed to spark openness, reflection, and meaningful dialogue. Find them here.
Ask Meaningful Follow-Up Questions
Inside of every human is a world of wonder. By practicing curiosity you can begin to know yourself and others in a more meaningful way. This goes along with listening deeply. When you listen deeply you will naturally and effortlessly be able to ask meaningful, follow-up questions that show you are present and paying attention.
Nurture Connection
Choose an activity that allows you to slow down and be present—whether with yourself or others. By listening deeply and giving your time and attention, you strengthen relationships and create space for connection.

Find Community

Tools to Support You Long-Term

Music Meditation
Music Meditation

Jewel's Portal Meditation - Take a moment to release what no longer serves you and dedicate yourself to what you want to grow. This meditation uses the sentence “I sacrifice my attachment to ____ and I dedicate it to ____” as a powerful behavioral health tool, helping align your thoughts, actions, and intentions in the same direction. It’s a simple step toward clarity, peace, and wellness.

Box Breathing
Box Breathing

Box breathing is a simple pattern you can use anytime to reset.

How to do it:

  • Close your eyes or soften your gaze.
  • Breathe in for a count of 4.
  • Hold your breath for a count of 4.
  • Breathe out for a count of 4.
  • Hold again for a count of 4.
  • Repeat as long as it feels good.

Watch Jewel’s Guided Box Breathing Meditation here.

Brain Break
Brain Break

Try using little moments throughout the day to focus on your breathing: stoplights, bathroom breaks, walking to a destination, etc.

Self-Compassion
Self-Compassion

Self-compassion means treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding you'd offer a friend. This approach helps calm anxiety by reducing self-criticism, easing emotional pain, and building resilience - allowing you to respond to challenges with greater clarity. Try these Exercises & Meditations we recommend by Dr. Kristin Neff.

Cold Therapy
Cold Therapy

Try submerging your face in a bowl of ice water, taking a cold shower, or putting a cold compress on your neck.

Warm Therapy
Warm Therapy
  • Take a warm bath or shower
  • Use a heating pad or warm blanket
  • Hold a warm drink and feel the steam on your face
  • Sit in the sun or near a cozy fire
You Are Not Your Thoughts
You Are Not Your Thoughts

You are not your thoughts - you are the observer of your thoughts. When you notice them without judgment, you create space to connect with the calmer, steadier part of yourself.

Relaxation Meditation
Relaxation Meditation

Find a comfortable place to sit or lie down, close your eyes, and find your natural breathing rhythm. Just listen as your body softens and your mind gently settles into rest.

More Resources

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If you’d like insight on these mental fitness tools or to connect with someone on the Inspiring Children and #NotAloneChallenge team please fill out our submission form here.