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Writer's pictureCrystal Borup-Popenoe

Building a Soulful Community: Connecting with Like-Minded Souls

Updated: Aug 20, 2023

Welcome! Today, we explore the importance of community and how we can cultivate deep connections in a world that often feels disconnected. Join me as we delve into practices of breathwork, meditation, and mindfulness to foster a strong sense of belonging.


The Power of Connection


Human beings are social creatures by nature, longing for connection and belonging. In our fast-paced and digitally driven world, it's essential to create spaces where we can authentically connect with others who share similar values, aspirations, and interests. A soulful community provides that nourishing space for growth, support, and inspiration.


Breathwork: Creating Presence and Connection


To begin our journey of building a soulful community, let's start with a simple yet powerful breath practice known as Box Breathing.


1. Find a comfortable seated position, close your eyes, and relax your body.

2. Inhale slowly through your nose to a count of four, feeling the breath fill your abdomen.

3. Hold the breath for a count of four, feeling the energy circulating within you.

4. Exhale slowly through your nose to a count of four, releasing any tension or stress.

5. Hold the breath out for a count of four, allowing yourself to fully let go.

6. Repeat this cycle for several rounds, focusing on the rhythmic pattern of the breath and the sense of calm it brings.



Meditation: Cultivating Presence and Unity


Meditation is a powerful practice that deepens our connection with ourselves and others. Try this Loving-Kindness Meditation to cultivate a sense of compassion and unity within your soulful community:


  1. Find a comfortable seated position and close your eyes.

  2. Take a few deep breaths, allowing your body and mind to relax.

  3. Begin by offering loving-kindness to yourself. Repeat silently or aloud: "May I be happy. May I be healthy. May I be safe. May I live with ease."

  4. Extend the loving-kindness to someone dear to you, repeating the same phrases: "May you be happy. May you be healthy. May you be safe. May you live with ease."

  5. Expand the circle of loving-kindness to include your soulful community, repeating: "May we be happy. May we be healthy. May we be safe. May we live with ease."

  6. Finally, extend the loving-kindness to all beings, known and unknown, near and far: "May all beings be happy. May all beings be healthy. May all beings be safe. May all beings live with ease."

  7. Sit in stillness for a few moments, allowing the energy of loving-kindness to permeate your being and extend to the world.



Mindfulness: Cultivating Connection in Everyday Moments


In building a soulful community, mindfulness plays a vital role in fostering deeper connections. Here's a simple mindfulness practice you can incorporate into your daily life:


  1. Choose a regular activity, such as drinking a cup of tea or taking a walk, and commit to doing it mindfully.

  2. Bring your full attention to the present moment, engaging all your senses in the experience.

  3. Notice the colors, textures, and smells around you. Feel the sensations in your body as you engage in the activity.

  4. When thoughts arise, gently bring your focus back to the present moment and the activity at hand.

  5. Practice this mindfulness exercise regularly, allowing it to deepen your sense of connection and presence in everyday moments.



Creating a Soulful Community


Building a soulful community requires intention, effort, and a shared commitment to growth and support. Here are some ideas to foster connection within your community:


  • Host regular gatherings or events centered around shared interests and soulful practices.

  • Create online platforms or social media groups where community members can connect and share their journeys.

  • Engage in meaningful conversations, deep listening, and authentic sharing to foster vulnerability and trust.

  • Collaborate on projects, workshops, or initiatives that align with the values and vision of the community.

  • Offer support, encouragement, and acts of kindness to uplift one another on the soulful path.



Join My Online Soulful Living Community

If you are looking to join an established Soulful Community, I invite you to join mine! Be part of my online community with live offerings that will help you feel connected, supported, and aligned with your soul! Click HERE to learn more!





Closing Thoughts

As we embark on the journey of building a soulful community, let us remember the power of connection, breathwork, meditation, and mindfulness. Together, we can create a space where like-minded souls come together to nurture their growth, find inspiration, and experience the profound beauty of unity. If you would like to join my Soulful Living Community,



With love and gratitude,


Crystal Borup



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