Creating a safe and supportive environment is crucial when providing support for individuals in uncomfortable situations such as anxiety attacks, bad psychedelic trips, PTSD triggers, and autonomic nervous system responses. Holding space, as explained by Psychology Today, means being present with someone without judgment, listening actively, and offering empathy and compassion without expecting anything in return. It involves accepting someone’s truths and putting aside your own needs and opinions to allow them to just be.
In the context of body work, holding space can involve facilitating a safe environment for individuals to explore their emotions and bodily sensations. Somatic experiencing (SE) is a body-oriented approach that helps release pent-up trauma that may be trapped in the body. The Zendo Project, a non-profit organization, provides supportive environments for individuals experiencing challenging psychedelic experiences at festivals and events.
When supporting individuals going through uncomfortable reactions, there are several steps that can be taken. First, create a safe space by finding a quiet and private area where they can feel comfortable and secure. Use a calm and reassuring tone to communicate that you are there to support them. Active listening is essential, including asking open-ended questions, reflecting back what you hear, and using nonverbal cues to show engagement.
Practicing empathy is important by imagining how the individual might be feeling and expressing understanding and support. This can be done through phrases like “I’m here for you” and “I understand how difficult this must be.” Offering various forms of support, such as physical comfort, practical assistance, and emotional encouragement, can also be beneficial.
If the individual’s symptoms are severe or causing distress, it may be necessary to seek professional help. This can involve contacting a crisis hotline, visiting the emergency room, or reaching out to a mental health professional.
Professionals such as Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, Dr. Gabor Maté, Dr. Rick Doblin, Dr. Stanislav Grof, and Dr. Michael Mithoefer have contributed to the field of somatic therapy and psychedelic integration therapy. Their research has focused on the efficacy of these therapies in reducing PTSD symptoms.
Sources:
(1) What Does It Mean/Look Like to Hold Space for Someone?. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-angry-therapist/201910/what-does-it-meanlook-hold-space-someone.
(2) What “Holding Space” For Others Really Means + How To Do It – mindbodygreen. https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/holding-space.
(3) When Trauma Gets Stuck in the Body | Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/in-the-body/201910/when-trauma-gets-stuck-in-the-body.
(4) What Does It Mean to Hold Space? | Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/between-the-generations/202305/what-does-it-mean-to-hold-space.
(5) How to Hold Space for a Loved One | Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/emotional-freedom/202010/how-hold-space-loved-one.
The Psychedelic Osteopath 