A safe space is essential for our development. The definition is a place or environment in which a person or category of persons feel confident that they will not be exposed to discrimination, criticism, harassment or any other emotional or physical harm.
I thought of this subject because I work with children who live on the street with their parents. We try our best to give them a space where they can express themselves freely and creatively. They are between the ages of 3—8. See some of them in the pictures down below.
It is very cold in Delhi currently and school is closed. We are not closed because we are a safe space where the children come. They were asked that would they like to go out to the park, because it is very cold inside. There unanimous answer was that they love coming to the project and they do not want to leave it. In summer also when it is hot and stuffy, they want to stay in. I dwelt on this, and I came to the conclusion that a safe space is where one is at peace and happy.
We all need safe spaces and after Covid, it has become harder for all of us. Many of us who have rejoined work, after keeping our feelings bottled up, when without provocation there is an angry outburst.
How do we solve this problem?
We may not be aware of it. We must learn to connect with people. How?
- Practice breath awareness, it will help you, not to obsess on your thoughts.
- Join a Yoga class, go for Satsang.
- Join a gym or a group walk.
- Become part of a group, which does charity work.
- Speak to people on the bus, train or flight.
- Ask people how they are doing with sincerity.
- Be pleasant and smile.
I come back to the retreat, comfort zone. I am posting some pictures for you from my project. We pick a date for them and celebrate their birthday with cakes and sweets. They love it.
Connect with your heart and with the hearts of others. You will always have a sanctuary within you.
Aim Hrim Klim
