We may all have a different perspective of what connection means. But in relations to life as we know it right now, we thought it was a fitting time to highlight the fundamentals of what it means to be human and simply put this is something that we all require. This year has been different for everyone and is especially a time where connections have been challenged. We wanted to dive in a little bit to what connection truly is and means, along with some ways you can connect with the Canadian music community.
We’re thrilled that within Canada many provinces are opening the economy up and allowing us to expand our social circles. However within the music industry, it will be some time before things are anything close to normal. We’re used to crowds, whether it’s at concerts, conferences, music schools etc. And because we know how important it is to stay connected to our loved ones, it’s also important to stay connected to your music community and co-workers, all the while being kind to yourself along the way. We’re all adjusting to these times and realize people’s capacities look different. But again connection is still essential and helps to minimize loneliness, anxiety, depression and even health issues.
If you’re a shy person or find it hard to meet people, not to worry! According to Psychology Today, the most interesting fact about connection is that it has nothing to do with the number of social media friends you have. A sense of connection is internal: Researchers agree that the benefits of connection are actually linked to your subjective sense of connection. In other words, if you feel connected to others on the inside, you reap the benefits thereof! – Emma Seppälä Ph.D..
Also, psychologists from Maslow to Baumeister have repeatedly stressed, the truth of the matter is that a sense of social connection is one of our fundamental human needs.
Social connection can lower anxiety and depression, help us regulate our emotions, lead to higher self-esteem and empathy, and actually improve our immune systems. By neglecting our need to connect, we put our health at risk. – The importance of human connection – Posted on October 17, 2019
Looking for ways to connect more with your music community, here’s some resources of organizations across the country that hold regular virtual meetings, community groups to connect with others and eventually will be back to in-person meetups as well.
Canadian Independent Music Association
Music Managers Forum – Community Chats
WCMA (Western Canadian Music Alliance)
Music Yukon Online Member Meet Up
Cultural Industries Ontario North (CION)
Music Industry Association of Newfoundland and Labrador (MusicNL)
Music Prince Edward Island (PEI)
Toronto’s Women in Music – A Facebook group with lively conversation and a sense of camaraderie
Women in the Music Business – Nova Scotia
Backline Support Groups – host biweekly online support groups.
Looking for a deeper connection, call friend, family member, reach out to someone you trust. Set Up a Skype call, zoom video chat, or facetime someone that you feel comfortable with, share your feelings and look to monitor how much time you’re truly isolated by yourself.
Make plans to connect with people on a weekly basis, whether it be through a community group, a video or phone call or a safe physical distance meet up, consider volunteering for a cause you care about, introduce yourself to your neighbours, do a random act of kindness. These are just a few of the many ways you can be kind to yourself and manage one of the many basic human needs.
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Disclaimer – Please note that information from this site should never be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
Follow us at @UnisonFund on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to stay up to date on balancing a healthy lifestyle while working in music.
Looking for additional help? Unison’s Counselling & Health Solutions connects Canadian music professionals with licensed counsellors offering nutrition and health guidance. Register for free and call 1-855-9UNISON to receive assistance.
