Extended Review of Together by Vivek H. Murthy

In Together: The Healing Power of Human Connection in a Sometimes Lonely World, Dr. Vivek H. Murthy, former U.S. Surgeon General, delves into the profound impact of loneliness on our health and happiness. The book is a compelling blend of personal reflection, scientific research, and practical guidance that underscores how loneliness is more than a fleeting emotion—it’s a public health concern that demands our attention.

Murthy’s core message is clear: human connection is as vital to our well-being as proper nutrition or exercise. He argues persuasively that nurturing these connections—both in our personal lives and in the broader community—is key to overcoming the modern epidemic of loneliness. His writing is accessible and empathetic, with stories that feel intimate and universal all at once.

One of the aspects of Together that particularly resonated with me was Murthy’s emphasis on the power of community spaces to combat loneliness. While he talks about families, workplaces, and friendships, I couldn’t help but reflect on my own experiences traveling every winter to different parts of the world and staying in co-living spaces. These co-living communities, often filled with people from diverse backgrounds and life stories, have offered me a unique sense of belonging and connection that I might not find in more traditional living arrangements.

Every winter, when I pack my bags and head to a new city or country, I know I’m not just changing my physical location. I’m immersing myself in a vibrant environment where conversations flow easily, shared meals turn strangers into friends, and spontaneous collaborations spark new ideas. Co-living spaces, in many ways, embody Murthy’s philosophy: they’re built on the idea that genuine human connection happens when we intentionally create spaces that foster openness and camaraderie. That is exacly the environment we are feeding at Caminho Coliving.

Murthy’s book reinforced for me that these connections—no matter how temporary or serendipitous—have a real impact on our mental and physical health. He points to the many ways that loneliness can contribute to anxiety, depression, and even physical ailments. By contrast, nurturing a sense of community, as I’ve experienced in co-living homes across the globe, can bring a profound sense of purpose and well-being.

One of the most powerful sections of the book is where Murthy discusses the importance of “emotional hygiene” and small but significant daily practices to build deeper bonds. I’ve found that co-living spaces, with their shared kitchens and communal areas, naturally encourage these practices—whether it’s pausing for a chat with a roommate, cooking together, or even just acknowledging each other’s presence with a warm greeting. Of course, as Murthy also highlights, part of “emotional hygiene” is respecting our need for alone time. At Caminho Coliving, for example, there’s a meditation and yoga area, a library, and a co-working space designed to be in silence—spaces that honor our need for solitude and reflection. These quiet areas complement the vibrant social life of the community, creating a healthy balance between connection and introspection.

While Together occasionally reiterates its central message, this repetition feels like a gentle insistence on something essential: that we are wired for connection, and it’s time we treat that connection as a priority. Murthy’s hopeful tone and actionable strategies remind us that, even in a world that sometimes feels disconnected, there are always ways to reach out and find community.

In the end, Together isn’t just a book about loneliness—it’s a book about the incredible power of human relationships to heal, uplift, and transform. For anyone who has experienced the unique magic of co-living communities, or who’s simply seeking more meaningful connections in daily life, Murthy’s insights offer both inspiration and a practical roadmap forward.

And we keep investing in those connections, and investing in it daily at Caminho Coliving.