How online communities contribute to my sense of belonging

When I was working through the communities chapter of Authenblissity Reset, it occurred to me that I derive a lot of joy from my online communities - specifically the subreddits and online writing groups that I'm a part of. In this video, I chat about how online communities contribute to my overall sense of belonging.
While this video focuses on online communities, I want to mention that in-person connection is very important to me. Since my energy levels are limited, I prioritize my personal relationships when it comes to in-person interactions. I mainly join online communities for my more niche interests (of which I have many! and it's lovely to know that I'm not alone in the interests.
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[@MollyMcMullen]

I completely agree. As an introvert in my 40’s, I find in-person gatherings really exhausting unless people are staying in their bodies. A bunch of heady talk can drain my energy. However, I love going to dance classes, or yoga, or ice skating lessons, etc. It’s a great way to co-regulate with other nervous systems, similar to how that happens when people play music together. Much better than a bunch of talking heads at a party! 😅

[@AuthenblissityMain]

That's a great point, thank you! I used to go to yoga and strength training classes and I really enjoyed them. I also liked trying various dance/movement classes. I haven't picked any back up since the pandemic but I may look into joining something in the new year. :)

[@MollyMcMullen]

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[@faeriesmak]

I totally agree with everything that you have said. Online communities have really helped and supported my interests over the years. Since I live rurally there are not many groups or other people who have similar interests as I do and the only places in the community that offer groups tend to be religious or church based. I have participated in several online communities, one being the makeup community, which is how I first found you! My interests have changed, and they tend to change from time to time. Right now I am not using Reddit much, unless I need specific information on something. I tend to curate my You Tube feed to my current interests. I keep my in person relationships pretty tight knit. I can only handle so many at a time, and that number tends to be very low!

[@AuthenblissityMain]

It's amazing how online communities can open up so many possibilities. I can totally see how they would be important in rural areas, as it's harder to find people with similar interests. So neat how we first connected through our shared interest in makeup! Reddit is great for looking up specific information! Speaking of curating, I'd like to do that with my subreddits so maybe I'll try the next time I'm scrolling through my feed. :) I also keep my in-person relationships rather tight knit, and I've been re-connecting with some old friends and colleagues lately, which has been really nice.