What It Means to Hold Space for Someone + How To Do It
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I've learned so much in the past few months . I feel like i've grown in leaps and bounds...my head and heart have opened. I've learned to forgive and to let go, I've learned how to love unconditionally . I've learned how to " HOLD SPACE". I'm learning each and every day how to JUST BE.
There is power in strength in holding space versus waiting/wanting for something to happen, they are not one in the same.
Let’s dive into Holding Space
“Holding space for someone can mean different things for different people, but, at a minimum, it means taking the initiative, without any prompting, to be empathic to another person's situation or circumstance and making time for that individual to do whatever is needed for them,like voicing hurt, anger, or another strong emotion, and receiving whatever they need to communicate in a way that is supportive and nonjudgmental,” explains Rheeda Walker, a clinical psychologist, researcher, professor at the University of Houston
What Holding Space means is:
Letting Go of Judgement
Not judging another persons actions and instead allowing them to evolve at their own time and pace without feeling the need to comment,criticize or judge.
Opening Your Heart
Allowing your heart to be open and remain open while holding space. Speaking , Doing and Being from a place of unconditional Love.
Allowing things to JUST BE
Allowing the other person to go through the experience without trying to control the outcome. Not giving input or pushing things in one direction or another, simply being there for them with no expectation. Trusting the process.
Holding space for another person is a beautiful thing, it takes strength, courage, patience , trust and faith. It is the intention to allow things to unfold just as they may.
Many situations can require holding space for another : birth, death, healing, divorce, end of a job or relationship or many other life changes. The key is to allow yourself and the other person to Just Be and to trust the process.
When you want to Hold Space for someone:
Sit and listen without the need to respond
Pray or Meditate for the Person, sending nothing but positivity their way
Be in tune with your feelings and the other persons
Pay attention to the other persons words as well as body language
The practice of holding space for someone is a gift, not only to them but also a gift to you as it allows you to develop a deep connection with someone.