After 13 Years in the Wellness Industry, This Is Our Biggest Takeaway

The vision behind Shanti-Som was born from a simple but powerful need: to create a space where people could slow down, connect, and just be—free from the constant pressures of everyday life. Over the past 13 years in the wellness industry, our journey has taught us what true health really means. And now, we’re ready to share the biggest lesson we’ve learned.

Of course, it’s all balance—what you eat, how much you exercise, and the kind of lifestyle you lead all play important roles in your overall well-being. But the real key to wellness might just surprise you.

The Power of Connection

Have you ever noticed the euphoric feeling that lingers after long leisurely meal with friends of shared memories, heartaches and successes? Or the subtle but satisfying warmth that spreads when someone acknowledges your effort with a simple high five or “good job”? You might walk away from a quick chat or interaction feeling more energised and motivated. These moments, while seemingly small, play a profound role in shaping our confidence and sense of worth.

When we feel truly seen and appreciated by the people around us, it gives us the confidence to take on challenges. With that inner strength, we’re more likely to show up better in everything—whether it’s being more focused and motivated at work, pushing harder in a workout, or stepping out of our comfort zones. When we feel supported and in tune with our values, everything we do feels more purposeful, energised and fulfilling.

This core idea is central to the work of renowned psychologist in positive psychology, Chris Peterson, who has long championed the importance of community and connection in creating a fulfilling life. Peterson’s message can be distilled into three simple words: Other People Matter. By embracing this mindset and shifting our focus from ourselves to those around us, we can enhance both our own wellbeing and that of others.

In the end, the true meaning of our lives comes not from personal achievements or material wealth, but from the way we show up for and care for those around us. The connections we foster, the kindness we extend, and the support we offer to others are what give our lives purpose and depth.

5 Ways to Connect With Others

When guests leave Shanti-Som we notice they feel lifted, energised and more confident. The number one feedback is they felt sincerely welcomed, connected and taken care of. They felt empowered to try new classes, weren’t afraid to ask questions, and were inspired by the supportive community around them. We try encourage all guests to cultiave that feeling when they leave our doors. Here are a few ways to gain deeper connections and make a positive shift in how we relate to the world around us.

Family Meals:

Chris Peterson emphasised the importance of family meals in today’s world. He urged families to share meals more often, turn off the TV, and truly connect with one another. “None of this can hurt, and I suspect it will help your kids be better people,” he said. Family dinners play a vital role in strengthening bonds, creating a sense of routine, and fostering open communication among family members. Sitting down together, even just a few times a week, provides a valuable opportunity to connect, share experiences, and support one another in a relaxed setting. Studies have shown that regular family meals are linked to better emotional well-being, improved academic performance in children, and healthier eating habits. In a busy world, these moments around the table become a grounding ritual that helps families stay close and connected.

Small Gestures:

Chris recognized the power of small, celebratory gestures, like high-fives or fist bumps, in building team cohesion. Even seemingly minor acts of celebration can significantly enhance group performance and morale as they carry deep significance when it comes to building connection and a sense of belonging. A simple high five is more than just a celebration—it’s a moment of shared energy, encouragement, and mutual respect. It reminds teammates that they’re not alone, that someone sees their effort, and that their contribution matters. A notable study led by Professor Michael Kraus from the Yale School of Management analysed the frequency of physical interactions among NBA teams. The findings revealed that teams exhibiting more frequent physical touch, including high fives and hugs, tended to have better performance metrics, such as higher win-loss records. This correlation suggests that positive physical interactions can foster a supportive team environment, enhancing cooperation and overall performance. ​

Create Experiences:

Celebrating others—whether it’s acknowledging a friend’s success, a colleague’s effort, or a loved one’s milestone—has a powerful impact on our own well-being. When we lift others up, we strengthen our relationships, foster a sense of connection, and create a more positive social environment. This outward focus not only boosts the confidence and happiness of those we celebrate, but it also enhances our own mood, reduces stress, and reinforces empathy and gratitude. In recognizing the good in others, we often find more joy and meaning in our own lives. Show people you care explicitly—make plans, create experiences, and invest in shared memories. Whether it’s a weekend getaway with loved ones or simply enjoying a meal together, these moments to connect will bring joy and deepen your relationships.

Don’t wait to be welcomed. Be the welcomer.

Have Compassion:

An important part of having relationships is compassion. It’s easy to become disappointed when others don’t meet our expectations, but instead of being annoyed, change your mindset to “believe people are trying their hardest”. Whether it’s a friend, colleague, or family member, we are all doing our best within the circumstances we’re facing. When we approach ourselves and those around us with kindness and understanding—especially during difficult times—we create a more supportive inner and outer environment. Practicing compassion has been linked to lower levels of anxiety and depression, improved relationships, and even physical benefits like reduced inflammation and better heart health. Ultimately, compassion helps us feel more grounded, purposeful, and connected in a fast-paced, often demanding world.

Express Appreciation:

Others might not always know how much they matter to us, so it’s crucial to express our appreciation. When we take the time to acknowledge and value the people, moments, or experiences in our lives, we shift our focus toward the positive, which boosts mood and fosters a deeper sense of gratitude. Sharing appreciation strengthens relationships, builds trust, and creates a ripple effect of kindness and connection. It also reinforces a mindset of abundance rather than scarcity, helping us feel more fulfilled and emotionally balanced in our daily lives.

So what’s the secret to wellbeing?

The path to lasting wellbeing lies not in individual pursuits but in the strength of the relationships we cultivate and how well we connect in the world around us. By fostering an Other People Matter mindset, building a sense of community, showing care for others, and focusing on shared meaning, we enrich our own lives while contributing to the happiness of those around us. In the end, practices like compassion, appreciation, celebration, connection, and shared moments—such as family dinners or team high fives—aren’t just feel-good gestures; they’re essential to our well-being. They remind us that we’re part of something bigger than ourselves and help create the emotional safety and support we all need to thrive. When we care for others, express gratitude, and make space for meaningful connection, we not only lift those around us—we uplift ourselves. These everyday acts of kindness and awareness form the foundation of a healthier, more resilient, and more connected life.