Research Foundations

alyx draws on a blend of science and practice.

Relationship Science

We are deeply inspired by leading experts like Mia Birdsong, Shasta Nelson, and Diane Musho Hamilton, who have been exploring and decoding how we build and nurture intimacy in relationships and friendships for decades. Their work highlights the importance of  vulnerability, generosity and consistency in showing up for one another and creating the strong bonds that help us thrive.

Village-Building and Restoring

Insights from the art of gathering by Priya Parker and community-building by Peter Block inspire alyx’s approach, helping people cultivate interconnected, supportive bonds that make a personal support system or “village” strong. We value transformative approaches to conflict, promoting healing and understanding over discord, disregard, and dismissal as championed.

Trauma-Informed Approach

Trauma-informed practices guide our focus on resilience and relational health. We're incorporating principles from renowned trauma and healing experts, Bessel van der Kolk and Peter Levine, paired with relational psychology and embodied approaches of Resmaa Menakem. Deb Dana’s Rhythm of Regulation practices for nervous system regulation play a foundational role for building safe relationships.

Creativity, Awe + Wonder

We are inspired by Jeremy Nobel and the Foundation for Art and Healing, which show how art activates the brain’s social connection pathways. Research by Dacher Keltner highlights how small moments of awe shift focus beyond ourselves, fostering connection and kindness. At alyx, we weave these insights into our design and practices to inspire growth and meaningful relationships.

Behavior Change and Habit Formation

Small, daily actions are proven to drive lasting change, as emphasized by author James Clear who studied behavioral science and neuroscience. Relationship studies show that regular positive interactions are key to strengthening bonds over time. At alyx, we bring these insights to life with bite-sized daily connection activities that foster growth and deeper relationships.

Scale

58% of Americans are feeling lonely

Cigna 2023

Health Risks of Loneliness

Loneliness increases mortality risk by 26-32%

Holt-Lunstad et al. 2015

The Cost of Loneliness

To US economy $406 billion total annually

CDC

Stigma Barrier

43% do not seek help

Mental Health Foundation 2020

Tackling the
Loneliness Epidemic

Loneliness has reached epidemic levels in today’s world, profoundly damaging mental, physical, and societal health.

We’re designing alyx to respond to this urgent need by fostering bonds that support, uplift, and enrich lives. Addressing and resolving loneliness is not just as a public health issue but as a symptom of fundamental human needs perpetually being unmet.

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Why the name

The name 'alyx' is a heartfelt nod to three extraordinary individuals who have deeply influenced our founders. These inspiring friends have been instrumental in shaping their understanding of friendship and community so much that we use the first letter of their names to construct the name of our app.

The "x" in alyx represents the unknown variable, symbolizing anyone, including you, who is on the journey to becoming a stronger friend and community builder.

alyx is designed to embody the spirit of reaching out, showing up, and fostering authentic connections.