Understanding Safe Spaces
Finding Comfort and Support in Challenging Times
You walk into your favourite café, the one where the barista knows your order by heart and the cosy corner by the window feels like your personal sanctuary. After a week of stress and nonstop deadlines, just being in this familiar space feels like a breath of fresh air. As you sip your coffee, you realise how much this simple spot has become your go-to place for peace and comfort—a safe haven in a hectic world. I know what you’re thinking. Finding a space like that is easier said than done. Here’s how to do it!
Why We Need Safe Spaces and Places
Research shows that spending time in spaces where we feel comfortable and supported can boost our mood, helping us stay positive during difficult moments. These spaces allow us to be ourselves, free from judgement. When they involve others, like meeting friends at a gym or joining an online group, they also provide opportunities to connect, share experiences, and form supportive relationships.
Having a place to go where you can relax, laugh, or feel understood can make all the difference when you’re facing challenges. These spaces can act as emotional lifelines, offering relief from life’s pressures. They help us recharge, which is essential for maintaining mental and emotional health.
Safe Spaces in Action:
You’ve had a long week filled with deadlines and work stress. Finally, it’s the weekend, and though you had no concrete plans, you know you need a break. A text comes from your friends, inviting you to the gym. While you feel physically tired, you decide to join them. The workout turns out to be invigorating—you even hit a personal best. Afterwards, you grab lunch with your friends, sharing stories about your stressful week. By the end of the day, you feel recharged, having found a space to release tension and gain support from friends. You’re ready to tackle the new week with a fresh mindset.
Now, imagine the opposite:
There’s no text from friends, and no gym to escape to. Instead, you spend your weekend at home, feeling drained but unable to relax. You contemplate calling someone, but the exhaustion and stress hold you back. Cooking feels like a chore, so you order takeout, which only adds to your guilt. Monday arrives, and though you’ve had time to physically rest, your mind still feels weighed down by the stress of last week. Without a place to unwind and seek support, you’re starting the new week already feeling mentally exhausted.
In the second scenario, the lack of a safe space to de-stress affects both your mood and your ability to cope. Without an outlet, stress can build up, leaving you feeling more disconnected and less able to handle life’s demands.
How to Create and Find Your Own Safe Spaces and Places
The good news is that safe spaces don’t have to be difficult to find or build. You can start by creating one in your home or finding places in your community where you feel at ease. Here are some ideas to help you identify or create your own safe spaces:
Create a Positive Space at Home
Transform a corner of your home into a stress-free zone. Whether it’s your bedroom, living room, or even a specific chair, make it a place where you feel comfortable and at peace. Consider adding personal touches that make you feel relaxed—pictures of loved ones, soothing aromas, soft blankets, or plants to bring a touch of nature indoors.
Join a Like-Minded Community
Find groups or clubs that align with your interests. If you love reading, consider joining a book club where you can meet people with similar tastes and share meaningful conversations. These communities often foster a sense of belonging, providing emotional support and camaraderie.
Explore Virtual Safe Spaces
Online communities can be just as supportive as physical spaces. Forums, discussion groups, and social media hubs often bring together people with similar interests, providing a place to express yourself without judgement. The advantage of online spaces is that they are always accessible, no matter where you are in the world, or what time it is.
Rediscover Local Places That Bring You Joy
Think about places near you that you’ve enjoyed in the past. It could be a cosy café, a park bench, or a favourite walking trail. Revisit these places, or explore new spots with similar features. Sometimes, just being in a different environment can shift your perspective and improve your mood.
Seek Out Support Groups
Support groups offer a space to share your story and connect with others facing similar challenges. Whether it’s a personal loss, mental health struggles, or a specific life situation, these groups can provide comfort, friendship, and valuable advice. Many support groups also have professional resources that can guide you to further help if needed.
Schedule Regular Connection Time
Make it a habit to regularly call or meet with friends or family. Not only will this help you stay connected, but it also reinforces the sense of belonging and acceptance that is essential for emotional well-being. Scheduling this time can ensure you don’t lose touch, even when life gets busy.
The Power of Safe Spaces and Places
Safe spaces and places are more than just physical locations—they are essential for our emotional health. Whether it’s a quiet corner at home, a bustling gym with friends, or an online group where you feel understood, these spaces provide relief from stress and offer support during challenging times. By creating or finding these spaces in our lives, we allow ourselves to rejuvenate, connect with others, and strengthen our resilience.
