I try to maintain an inconsistent habit of running when I visit a new city. Typically it's early in the day and I don't necessarily enjoy the process of my shins screaming for a reprieve, but that feeling afterward is one helluva drug.
When running on a public path and I encounter a fellow jogger approaching me, I'll at times hold up my forward-facing palm with the universal invitation for a high five as we cross paths. Sometimes I'm left hanging. Sometimes I'm not.
I appreciate efficiency and technology and at this point and I support our evolution into robots as friends, not foe. In fact, these days I can complete most public purchases without the interaction of a fellow persona. Scan, swipe, rinse, repeat.
Serotonin, dopamine, endorphins, and oxytocin are a close-knit group of amigos that we all should attempt to befriend. There are lists and therapists with ideas on how to emit more of those chemicals. Some of the said ideas are easier than others but most are pretty simplistic. Vitamin D, unsolicited smiles and outdoor time are some low-hanging fruit for the soul. My action item for these biological drugs is simply remembering to keep on talking to people as we increase our non-communicative efficiencies. Just because you can purchase your candy bar without any assistance, doesn't give you sanction to bypass saying hello to another passerby. I'm considering making a tee shirt that says "I miss my cashier".
Not a strong call to action here, just a reminder to look up from your intelligent and automated screen occasionally to talk to someone. Take out your headphones and acknowledge the front desk attendant as you leave the gym. Or at the least shoot them a platonic smile. Risky high five requests work too. We need more of that. Yep.
New in my life: Flippant ambivalence festooned with a cornucopia of doubt. Contented collective effervescence is the goal. Chronically interested in figs and Jack Russells. Tudo bem.
