Lisa guides us through creating a safe space
There are times for us all when we can feel emotionally and/or physically unsafe. This can affect our self-care and our emotional wellbeing or physical being.
Creating an emotional safe space is something which can help ground us and create a sense of calm in times of panic, and provide an ability to continue with day-to-day activities and support the parts of us which are struggling emotionally.
There are a number of techniques, support and strategies to to help ground us and create a sense of safety:
• An object which reminds us of something/someone or a time in which we felt happy and secure enables us to feel, touch and keep memories to create a sense of safety.
• A photo of a place/person or time.
• Grounding techniques.
• Breathing techniques.
• Having a safe place which we can imagine/keep in mind is also a great way to calm and steady ourselves. This place can be real, imaginary or both.
I would like to introduce you to this technique:
Find a space for yourself in which you can feel comfortable. Now, if you feel able, close your eyes (please don't do this if it doesn't feel ok). Think of a place which makes you happy; is it by the sea, on sand, in the garden, in your bedroom? What can you smell? Is there anyone with you; a friend, a pet? What would you like there? Is it a bowl full of ice-cream? Fluffy clouds? Certain music which helps you feel calm? Now think about what else you may want to add; maybe your favourite character? A person who has always been there for you? Chocolate and your favourite film? Your space can be whatever you want it to be, whatever you want it to have as long as it makes you smile and makes you comfortable.
Now if you feel able, write it down; what was there, how did you feel? Are you able to draw/paint it? Could you capture the smell in a napkin or on your clothing so you feel it is always with you? This is your space, no one else’s, this is the place you feel emotionally safe and by going back to this place either by looking at what you have written, by looking at your painting/drawing or by the smell you can always carry it with you and keep it in mind.
I have had many people of many ages use this technique; some use it when they are out and about, some say it helps them to sleep, some when they are away from the person which helps them feel safe. I hope you gain as much joy, smiles and support from it as they did. And remember you can add to it, move it, make it whatever you want it to be, no matter how silly, small, or large it may be. It is your space and can be as imaginative as you like.
