360: Why “Protecting Your Peace” Is Making Us Lonely: What I Learned About Community After 7 Months in the UAE

Are your boundaries secretly making you lonely? In this solo episode of The Brave Table, I’m breaking down the dark side of “protecting your peace” — and why our obsession with canceling plans, staying in, and isolating under the guise of “self-care” might actually be harming our mental and emotional health. After living in the UAE for seven months, I saw firsthand how community and shared rituals are the glue that keeps us grounded — and why the Western obsession with radical independence is making us lonelier than ever. This episode is a heartfelt call to reclaim connection, reject fake ingredients (in food and relationships), and build a life — and a village — that truly nourishes you. What you'll get out of this episode… The surprising ways “protecting your peace” may actually deepen your loneliness The shocking health consequences of chronic isolation The powerful community lessons I learned while living in the UAE The inside story of why I built Chai Tonics, and what it took to make it truly clean and functional A perspective shift to help you build real connection and intentional rituals Mama, your nervous system deserves a pause. The Chai Tonics Ritual Starter Kit was made to help you reset with blends that support focus, calm, and energy—without the coffee crash. Create your sacred moment at https://bit.ly/trychaitonics with code BRAVE for 15% off. This Episode is Powered by Health Nag Struggle to stay hydrated? Health Nag’s Juicy Watermelon Electrolytes give you six essential electrolytes + Vitamin B12, Magnesium, and Vitamin C—all without sugar or fillers. It’s hydration that actually works. Try it today at https://neetabhushan.com/healthnag with code BRAVETABLE for 10% off. Sponsored by Zoime Longevity Clinic Longevity isn’t just about more years—it’s about better ones. At Zoime Longevity Clinic, you’ll get a personalized health plan rooted in the seven pillars of thriving life—gut health, hormones, nervous system, mindset, and more. Start your journey at https://neetabhushan.com/zoime and get 10% off your consultation with code BRAVETABLE. Want more? ☕ Love chai + self-care? Grab my free 12-month ritual guide → neetabhushan.com/chaitonics 🌿 Need focus, recovery, or balance? Take my FREE quiz to find your perfect wellness boost → neetabhushan.com/chaiquiz Follow along for more tips, community, and resources to brave a better you! YOUTUBE / @TheBraveTable IG / @neetabhushan IG / @thebravetable TIKTOK / @neeta.bhushan WEB / https://neetabhushan.com If you loved this episode, check out… Ep. #232: Simone Heng On Why Loneliness is Becoming the World's Next Big Health Problem ( Apple | Spotify | YouTube ) Ep. #310: Is Toxic Femininity Real? The Truth No One Talks About ( Apple | Spotify ) Ep. #343: The Secret to Building a Viral Community (Even If You Feel Like an Outsider) with Krystl Fabella ( Apple | Spotify | YouTube ) To receive a free gift, email a screenshot of your 5-star review of The Brave Table to support@globalgrit.co 😘 Dr. Neeta Bhushan is a 5x award-winning author, emotional health advocate, and host of The Brave Table podcast. CEO of Highest Self Institute and author of That Sucked, Now What, she’s been featured in Forbes, ABC, and more. A former dentist turned global speaker, Neeta’s work blends psychology, ancient wisdom, and resilience from her own life experiences. She's also a mom, wellness lover, and chai enthusiast.