Have you ever wished that you could just escape to a personal paradise when things get tough? Perhaps you imagine a tropical beach, or a cosy campsite in the middle of the woods. Although escapism isn’t a good plan long-term, having a mental place to escape to and regroup can be a useful tool.
To create your personal sanctuary, start by thinking of your favorite place. It can be anywhere – a tropical island, a snowy mountain, an exotic jungle… wherever you feel most relaxed and safe.
Now, use your senses to capture all the elements of your sanctuary.
- What do you see?
- What does it smell like?
- What does it taste like? (For example, you may be able to taste the salt in the air by the ocean.)
- How does it make you feel?
- What textures do you associate with this place?
- What sounds would you hear?
Feel free to create a physical sanctuary by writing down your observations, drawing a picture, or even tucking away a physical piece of it (like a rock or leaf) in your desk.