All By
Myself
When Isolation Is Ok
We all need time alone. Even
those of us who are social butterflies need some time to ourselves. Solitude is
necessary for meditation and quiet reflection. We also may choose to isolate
ourselves when we are busy and need to meet a deadline. We may cherish time
alone when we want to give ourselves over to art or music, lose ourselves in a
good book, or delve into a personal project. Having time to ourselves allows us
to focus completely on our yoga practice or get into the zone while running or
strength training. Sometimes we need to be alone to simply do nothing but enjoy
the sound of silence. Our alone time revitalizes and replenishes us, grounding
us in our own company.
Yet, too much isolation, especially when our
intention is to hide, withdraw, or not deal with the realities of our lives is
not physically, mentally, or spiritually healthy. It is during moments like
these when being in isolation takes us away from our lives, rather than
enhancing it. If anything, too much isolation can create a buffer whereby we
don’t have to deal with our problems. Sometimes, pushing ourselves to deal with
our issues and be in our lives, rather than isolate, is one of the best gifts we
can give to ourselves.
Also, just as it is important for us to have our
"alone" time, we need to remember that as human beings, we are by nature social
creatures that thrive on human contact. Our lives cannot occur in a vacuum, and
we cannot fully live in this world without interacting with others. Consider
using isolation as time spent for rest, reinvigoration, and personal growth.
Isolation can then not only empower you, but it can allow you to return to your
work and your relationships restored and ready for life.