Creating space in the midst of chaos

It's been years since I've blogged here and at 3rd Spaces, but the times call me to be more intentional about writing, 1) as a way to document all that is happening in face of this current pandemic, and 2) as a way, in addition to poetry writing, to make space for my inner voice.

To say that life as we know it is changing every hour, is no exaggeration. Globally, we are all in a state of unknown, and depending on who you talk to this is either a grave time or a hopeful one. 

As a poet, facilitator, and coach, I talk a lot about the importance of "creating space." I have recently been asked (and I ask myself) how does one create space in the midst of chaos and the depths of uncertainty in which we find ourselves. I'm not talking about creating social distancing. Rather, how does one create the inner space when so much outside of us is begging for our immediate attention?

No matter what is happening around us we still have control of what is happening within us. How we respond to what we're hearing is key. This doesn't mean we wear rose-colored glasses and pretend that everything is "normal" or will be normal. but it does mean having control of our thoughts and emotions -- letting them come and letting them go.

With this in mind, there are a few reminders and suggestions I would like to offer as you consider creating space in the midst of chaos:

1. Know that you deserve the inner sanctum now more than ever. It is not selfish for you to take time to silence your thoughts and to feel the joy and peace that come from being present. Give yourself at least 15 minutes a day (okay, start with 5 mins) to be still and to focus on your breathing. Remember that you are still here, grounded, with a strong heartbeat. Honor that!
2. Limit your access to social media and the news. I know it's important to stay abreast of the changing news, but is that adding to your life or taking away from it? There is a difference between staying informed and being inundated. Set boundaries for yourself and others. You will thank yourself for it later.
3. Be open to be inspired. Creating space has a way of opening ourselves up to something new. Our inward journey travels outwards. Maybe you will be inspired to paint or write or garden. Maybe it's the time for you to write the novel you've had in mind for years. Whatever it may be, let it emerge naturally, out of the welcoming space that you create.

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And, just as we create space for our wellbeing, we must give those around us the space to do the same. How might you support those with whom you work to process what is changing in a way that is healthy for them? What might you offer your family and loved ones as they walk this path., too? How might you show up to those who depend on you but to whom you know not what to say? Authentically, I hope.

It's not easy, when life is difficult, to create space to feel everything, but I find it is important in aiding with our daily healing. We are all suffering, to a degree, and it requires us to be more intentional about coming out of this better than how we entered. 

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