How cohousing can make us happier (and live longer) | Grace Kim

Loneliness and Built Environments

The speaker discusses loneliness as a result of built environments and the impact of social connections on individuals' well-being.

Loneliness Beyond Solitude

• Loneliness is not solely about being alone but rather about the level of social connection one experiences.

• The speaker highlights how achieving the dream of a perfect home can lead to a false sense of connection and increased social isolation.

False Sense of Connection

• Living in seemingly ideal neighborhoods may create a facade of knowing neighbors, while many individuals might not truly engage with those around them.

• Social media contributes to this false sense of connection, leading to increased feelings of isolation.

Cohousing as an Antidote

• Cohousing, an age-old concept present in non-European cultures and popularized by the Danes, offers a solution to isolation through intentional community living.

• Cohousing involves shared spaces where residents know and support each other, fostering genuine social interactions.

Personal Experience in Cohousing

• The speaker introduces Sheila and Spencer, residents in a cohousing community designed by him. They emphasize intentional social interactions within their neighborhood.

Communitas in Cohousing Communities

The speaker discusses the concept of "communitas" in cohousing communities, emphasizing the importance of shared meals and interactions in fostering a sense of community.

Understanding Communitas

• Communitas refers to the "spirit of community" within cohousing communities.

• Regular shared meals enhance communitas levels among residents.

• Eating together leads to increased collaboration and sharing among community members.

• Living in cohousing involves intentional relationship-building and conflict resolution.

Cohousing as an Antidote to Isolation

The speaker highlights the significance of cohousing as a solution to combat social isolation and its potential life-saving impact.

Importance of Cohousing

• Research shows a higher risk of premature death due to isolation.

• Social isolation is declared a public health epidemic by the US Surgeon General.