Why You Need Community (and How You Can Find It Through Kava)

Scenes from the first Deviant Kava pop-up event in Tampa, FL

"We are connected by loneliness through a kinship of detachment" - Erra, "Cure"

It's no secret that young people are feeling lonelier than ever. Everywhere you turn on the internet, there are memes about "the void" and "doomscrolling." The realities of the technologies that fit inside our pockets have changed our lives for better or for worse. Different types of apps are great for establishing connections but terrible for keeping you in the present moment. Heavy use of social media, while providing some connection, often exacerbates feelings of loneliness and isolation due to the superficial nature of online interactions.

Mental health concerns are prevalent, with significant numbers reporting struggles with anxiety and depression. Approximately 41% of Gen Z and 36% of Millennials report struggling with their mental health. For anyone who has been there, you know it can be a negative feedback loop of isolation.

It's Not All Bleak

Despite these challenges, Millennials and Gen Z are actively seeking meaningful connections. Many are turning down job opportunities or employers that do not align with their personal values, including those that do not support mental well-being or work-life balance. This indicates a strong desire for purpose-driven work and environments that build genuine community.

There has been a tangible shift in the wellness narrative. Many are getting involved with community-based wellness programs to find a way to connect with others and move their bodies. This can come in the form of a workout program like an F45 or a local yoga studio, or even discussion groups centered around reading, holistic wellness, and healthy cooking and eating. The accountability that comes from these connections can break the negative feedback loop and endorse healthy social and physical well-being.

The Third Place

Have you heard the expression "third place" or "third space" tossed around?

In the days before smartphones, people had three places to go: work, home, and a community hub in which everyone would gather. These community hubs are the "third place" that many are missing today. Take into consideration that many work from home and may not see another person throughout the course of a day other than on a small screen in their home office.

When I first got introduced to the kava scene, I felt as if I had stepped through a portal into the social life I wished I had at the time. The diversity in experience and humanity right from the start was enough to bring me back again. Not to mention, the drinks I tried gave me a sense of well-being that felt clean and didn't borrow joy from the following day (thank you, Tim Ferriss, for that quote).

Coffee shops are grab-and-go or keep to yourself, and bars are not in line with the wellness goals of many. Kava bars have become the community hub for those seeking meaningful connections and culturally rich experiences. When you enter a kava bar, you can expect to naturally find yourself in a conversation with a degree of depth that can open up new doors in your life and in your mind. You are welcomed to stay a while, work, play, socialize, or relax.

Finding Community Through Kava

Kava bars offer a unique atmosphere that blends relaxation with social interaction. The calming effects of kava, derived from the kavalactones in the plant, help reduce anxiety and promote a sense of well-being without the impairing effects of alcohol. This makes kava bars ideal for deep, meaningful conversations.

When you walk into a kava bar, you’re likely to find a diverse group of people, all seeking the same sense of connection and community. The environment encourages openness and friendliness, making it easy to strike up conversations with strangers who quickly become friends. This sense of community is something that many young people crave in today’s digital age.

In addition to fostering social connections, kava bars often host wellness activities such as yoga sessions, meditation classes, and support groups. These activities provide additional opportunities for individuals to connect with like-minded people and enhance their overall well-being.

Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day, meet new friends, or engage in wellness activities, kava bars provide a welcoming space for all..