From Trespass to Tranquility: Balancing Physical and Mental Safety

Recently, during my travels, I had an unfortunate experience in which someone trespassed onto my Airbnb property and stole some belongings. Thankfully, no one was hurt, and the items can be replaced, but it made me reflect deeply on the concept of safety.

Four of us were affected by this incident, and interestingly, once we learned what had happened, we all felt different degrees of unsafeness. This made me deeply recognize that emotional and mental safety comes from our thinking.

There is, of course, Physical Safety:

We rely on measures like:

• Locking doors and windows

• Installing security systems and cameras

• Having dogs for protection

These measures are essential and provide a tangible sense of security. However, they are just one piece of the puzzle.

Emotional and Mental Safety

What about the feeling of safety? This incident made me ponder where that comes from. I've realized that safety is a constellation of our thoughts, just like many other things in life. If you think you are safe, you will feel safe. But what happens when you hear about or experience something unsettling? It's incredible how quickly that sense of security can vanish.

So, how do we balance physical safety measures with creating a sense of safety in our minds?

Tips for Cultivating a Sense of Safety

1. Assess Your Surroundings:

• Before settling into a new place, take some time to familiarize yourself with the area.

• Identify exits, check locks, and note any security features.

2. Create a Safety Routine:

• Establishing a routine can help reinforce a sense of control and security.

• This could include checking all locks before bed or setting up a nightly security system check.

3. Mindfulness and Visualization:

• Practice mindfulness to stay present and avoid letting your mind spiral into fear.

• Visualize yourself safe and secure. This can help create a mental barrier against anxiety.

4. Stay Informed, Not Paranoid:

• Stay updated about the area you are in, but avoid constant consumption of negative news.

• Balance being informed with recognizing when information is starting to cause undue stress.

5. Support Systems:

• Share your location and plans with trusted friends or family.

• Having someone aware of your whereabouts can provide an additional layer of security and peace of mind.

6. Trust Your Instincts:

• If something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut and take action.

  • Sometimes, our instincts are our best guides for staying safe.

Safety is more than just physical barriers; it's a state of mind. Just like many things, our thoughts create our feelings of safety. By taking proactive measures to secure your environment and cultivating a mindset of safety, you can navigate the world with greater confidence and peace. Remember, it’s about finding a healthy balance between being prepared and staying calm.

Stay safe and secure, both physically and mentally.