Loneliness is more than just a feeling.

It's a public health crisis that’s quietly affecting millions. In this episode of Mindful Paths, Nick Day and Hari Kalymnios unpack the growing epidemic of loneliness, why it’s as dangerous as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, and how we can build real connection in an increasingly disconnected world.

You’ll hear personal stories, surprising science, and practical tools to help you (or someone you love) feel less alone, even in the age of remote work, social media, and surface-level relationships.

From cold plunges and breathwork to gratitude and government policy, we explore it all.

If you've ever felt disconnected or isolated (even in a crowded room), this episode is for you.

Don’t forget to subscribe for weekly episodes on mindset, wellness, and mental fitness.

Connect with Nick Day on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickday/

Transformational Coaching with Nick or Hari Enquiries: [email protected]

Connect with Hari Kalymnios on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harikalymnios/

Visit: https://harikalymnios.com

Mental Health Disclaimer & Guidance: The content in this podcast is informational…

(00:00) Introduction

(03:23) What Loneliness Really Feels Like

(06:18) Is Loneliness Worse Than Smoking?

(09:12) Being Alone vs Feeling Lonely

(13:20) Why Aging Makes Loneliness Harder

(16:50) Have We Lost Our Sense of Community?

(20:37) Are We Replacing Connection With Social Media?

(24:08) Why Remote Work Is Making Us Feel Isolated

(27:32) Why Your Body Needs Real Connection

(30:55) How Loneliness Impacts Your Brain and Health

(33:18) Daily Habits That Help Us Feel Less Alone

(36:34) Can the Government Actually Solve Loneliness?

(39:51)Things You Can Do Today to Beat Loneliness

(47:06) How to Support Someone Who Feels Isolated

(51:02) Why Tech Can’t Replace Real Human Contact

(55:22) The First Step to Feeling Less Lonely