The Healing Space: The Importance of Granting Others (and Ourselves) the Freedom to Heal

Hello Tribe,

Today I'm bringing you a topic weighing heavily on my heart - the importance of providing space to heal.

I recently sensed that a friend was going through a rough time. Being who I am, I frequently called and sent messages checking in on and encouraging her. I thought my actions expressed support, but she confessed they were overwhelming and distracted her from healing. She needed space to heal, and I had to respect that space.

When someone we care about is hurting, our first instinct might be to rush in, to fill their world with love and positivity, hoping to speed up the process. My encounter with my friend reminded me we can't rush the healing process, especially for someone else.

Healing is a personal process that requires a lot of self-reflection.

As loved ones, we need to understand that our role isn't to fix their pain but to stand by their side as they navigate through it. Giving space doesn't mean you're being distant or uncaring. On the contrary, it's about allowing space for a safe, judgment-free zone where the person can confront their pain, understand it, and work through it.

Now, let's turn the mirror to ourselves. How often do we grant ourselves the same grace? We live in a world where there are many distractions and responsibilities. It's easy to become so consumed with life that we fail to slow down, allowing our heart and soul the time and space to heal. Sometimes, we may feel like what we need to heal, whether crying, taking things off our plate, asking for help, etc., is a sign of weakness. The truth is, whatever you need to heal is not a sign of weakness, it's a sign of strength, your humanity, and a testament to your resilience.

So, next time you're nursing a broken heart, dealing with a loss, grappling with disappointment, etc., don't forget to allow yourself the space to feel, to hurt, and most importantly, to heal. Let yourself breathe. It's okay not to be okay. You don't have to rush the process for appearances or timelines.

Remember, healing is not linear. There will be good days and bad days, and that's okay. Healing takes time, and the space you create for it is sacred. Take your time with that process. Give others the space to heal. Give yourself the space to heal. You are worth it, and so is your journey.

Much love,

Tricia