What Does It Mean To Hold Space?

What Does It Mean To Hold Space?

I remember when I first heard the term, “hold space” in 2012 when I lived in San Francisco. I had to ask my friend for clarification, “What does that mean to “hold space”? And she told me. I think holding space is a term that is becoming more popular today. More and more people are using it in their conversations. Still you might not be 100% sure you understand what it means.

I believe this is a very important concept, so let’s discuss it. Holding space means that when someone is speaking, you are present; you are listening; you are engaged in the conversation without judgment or criticism; you are providing the time and space for them to express themselves completely, to be heard.

There is great power in holding space and it is very healing for the other person. But in today’s busy world, often times it is only with a therapist or a healer that this happens. Holding space requires empathy and compassion and calm composure. When someone is truly listened to, they become empowered. They feel heard. They feel free in their expression. They can cry, laugh, show frustration or sadness. They do not feel that they have to present themselves in a certain way. They just need to be truthful to themselves. This is so freeing.

In my practice as a holistic healer, I hold space for my clients. This is the first step in the healing process for them. Naturally when I began interviewing mothers for my book I held space for them to share their stories. Many shared that it was the first time they had ever completely shared their childbirth story; many were so happy to share what that they couldn’t express openly to others for fear of being shamed or fear of creating comparisonitis with someone else; some expressed that it was the first time they had shared their story without sadness and others said it was the first time they were aware of their transformation through motherhood.

When we hold space we give others the permission to discover themselves. Let’s hold space for all of the mothers I will share in this blog and for everyone who comments! Also let us also hold space for everyone around the world as we are all going through the effects of the Coronavirus in our own ways. Let us not judge each other. Let this be an opportunity to pick up the phone and check on our loved ones instead of sending a quick text. Holding space for them on the phone or in-person is empowering. Allow them to express how they feel; allow them to be heard. Give them the gift of presence and empathy.

Please comment below if you are committed to holding space for the mothers in this blog and also in your own personal life. This is a time for us to lift each other up! This is an opportunity for us to unify and be stronger. This is a time for us to look at what is most important in our lives: our family and friends and what makes us happy in our lives, things that we may take for granted in our busy lives. Also this is an opportunity to make sure we fill ourselves up, so that we can give and hold space for others. Please don’t forget to take care of yourself too.

If you are feeling alone at this time and need someone to hold space for you, please reach out to me. I am a holistic healer with over 15 years experience. I offer virtual 1:1 healing sessions through Zoom which include emotional support, a powerful, gentle healing, and an intuitive reading to empower you, inspire you, and give you the tools to go forward. Click here, to contact me.

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And remember, “if we can share our story with somebody who responds with empathy and understanding, shame cannot survive.” Brené Brown

Wishing you much peace,

Khristee