Since Covid there has been a global shift to prioritising being ‘present’ in our lives, honing the art of noticing. We’ve been inspired more than ever to create our own castle, a haven in our homes. Thinking of my own special place in my home I wanted to encourage friends, family and readers to share their happy safe space. Perhaps it might inspire you to create your safe/special spot, if you don’t already have one.
I’ve named this feature, Kumbla. 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”.
I’ve drawn upon the image of a kumbla as safe space/place. Yet, how do you find a calm moment, when your home is also your place of work? In this feature natural hair entrepreneur and brand owner Afua Williams, shares her kumbla with us:
This is my little spot in my home that I always take time to pause and reflect on every day. I love my family, warm light and nature – so it’s the perfect combination and always warms my soul. This composition is the first thing I see when I come home. I see it multiple times a day and it’s the last thing I see when I head out the door.
My family is incredibly important to me and after coming from a childhood where family wasn’t a safe place, I’m so thankful for my blessings. I love the serenity of this space, plus it reminds me why I do what I do. Especially when I’m going through a difficult day – or even on my best days – seeing this re-centres me and helps me focus on what’s most important.
You can find Afua as Natural Barnet on Instagram. On Instagram, she regularly gives advice about all things natural hair, from wash and go to length retention AND of course how to use her Natural Barnet products. I’ve had the pleasure of using her products during my own natural hair and wellbeing journey with good results.
If you missed the last kumbla feature, CLICK HERE
Would like to be featured? DM me on Instagram or email: maria@xpatathome.co.uk
Looking forward to hearing from you.
