Since Covid there has been a global shift to prioritising being ‘present’ in our lives, honing the art of noticing. We’ve been inspired to create our castle, a haven in our homes. Thinking of my special place in my home, I wanted to encourage friends, family, and readers to share their special/safe space. Perhaps it might inspire you to create a sacred space if you don’t already have one.
I’ve named this feature, Kumbla because it conjures up the idea of a sacred space for me. The word ‘kumbla’ comes from the work of Erna Brodber, Jamaican writer (sociologist and social activist), entitled Jane and Louisa Will Soon Come Home:
“The image of the kumbla derives in this novel from a popular Anancy story in which Anancy dupes Dryhead into believing that he is surrendering all of his sons to him by telling his son Tucuma … Anancy’s whole career has been one of spinning “fine white cocoons” (124), creating kumblas “designed to protect for generations”.
It’s February! How many of us are sticking to our keep fit resolutions? I love my gym sessions just as much as seeing other people’s exercise regimes. Juliette is a true inspiration. She takes it a step further; her exercise regime is not just for her health but also in preparation for her various charity challenges. Juliette is a Key Worker in the Homeless Sector AND a Charity Ambassador for The Pink Ribbon Foundation We met several years ago due to our mutual love for Dorothy Koomson’s thriller novels. We have both written book reviews and attended launch events for Dorothy’s novel, one of which was That Girl Memories (where we met). I reached out to Juliette to find her favourite space at home, after her busy days.
Juliette says:
During Covid we realised the importance of exercise and made a space in our front room. We appreciated how lucky we are and since then, we have kept our home gym.
I can often be found destressing after work, there. In my job, I have to be outwardly calm but I am working with vulnerable, unstable individuals which can be stressful. Having this home gym area means alot to me. It’s my sacred space.
You can find Juliette on Instagram her account @ClaraTeddy there she shares all her adventures, charity work and work outs.
Did you miss the prebvious Kumbla feature ? visit the Kumbla page to see them all.
How did you cope with life after lockdown ? what tools worked for you? Comment below
Finally, if you would like to be featured in Kumbla? DM me on Instagram @xpatathome or email: maria@xpatathome.co.uk
I look forward to hearing from you.
