The Benefits of Belonging: A Community Conversation at Richland Park Library

Nov 13

On Saturday, September 20th, the Richland Park Library in Nashville hosted a thoughtful and uplifting gathering led by Rebecca, co-founder of Burns Village & Farm, a cohousing and agrihood community being built in Burns, Tennessee. The workshop centered around one essential human need: belonging and how we can cultivate it intentionally in our lives and communities.

Drawing inspiration from The Little Book of Circle Processes by Kay Pranis, Rebecca guided participants through an exploration of what it means to feel seen, valued, and connected, both to ourselves and to one another.

Pranis’s book reminds us that healing and peace come not from systems of control but from relationships grounded in shared humanity. The circle process reawakens an ancient truth: that when we sit together, listen deeply, and speak honestly, community becomes possible again.

The conversation reflected the same principles that shape life at Burns Village & Farm: mutual care, shared growth, and authentic connection.

Building a Sense of Belonging

Rebecca invited the group to reflect on practical ways to strengthen a sense of belonging. The discussion highlighted key practices written on the easel:

Self-awareness and self-compassion, recognizing our emotions and treating ourselves with kindness.
Vulnerability with self-disclosure, allowing others to know our authentic stories.
Intentional social outreach, engaging socially at a sustainable pace that honors personal comfort.
Focusing on others, expressing thanks, acknowledging people’s contributions, and inviting them in.

Each of these ideas underscored that belonging begins internally. When we cultivate self-awareness and extend compassion outward, we create stronger social bonds, the same kind of human fabric that intentional communities like Burns Village & Farm are built upon.

The Measurable Benefits

Rebecca also shared evidence-based insights showing that belonging has measurable effects on well-being. Connection doesn’t just feel good; it creates resilience.

Among the benefits noted were:

Improved physical health
Reduced depression and anxiety
Greater resilience and motivation
An Increased sense of accomplishment

In a world where loneliness has become an epidemic, these reminders felt especially relevant. Belonging is both a biological and emotional need, one that’s nourished by shared purpose and supportive community.

Living the Practice

As the session came to a close, participants spoke of the sense of peace and inspiration that came from simply sitting in a circle and listening to one another, a powerful echo of the values that define Burns Village & Farm. At the heart of the community’s mission is intentional living: slowing down, connecting deeply, and co-creating a place where everyone can feel connected, accepted, and supported.

Rebecca’s presentation was more than a discussion; it was a living example of what Burns Village & Farm stands for: designing environments where belonging is not a byproduct but the foundation.