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 call it ‘kumbla’. 

This word harks back to my literature studies at university. 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”.

Now you might think if a person is usually at home while remote working or homemaking, there’s always peace. Well, I can tell you from first-hand experience there’s no peace unless you actively create it.

Charlene share how her kumbla helps her cope with her chronic health condition.

One of my favourite places to be in at home is my garden. Particularly this corner of it where I can rest and look out into the peaceful scented colourful area.
I was never really interested in gardening. However, during lockdown and due to my chronic health conditions, I had to spend a longer time in isolation. Away from friends and family; the garden became a sanctuary to me. It’s restorative. As I planted flowers and vegetables and saw them grow, suddenly, a space developed. In this area, I could grieve the loss of my health and the isolation it led to. It’s ok to not be ok at times and this space allowed me to do that.

Additionally, the space reminds me of the friendship and love I have with my husband. Due to some of mobility issues he created lots of raised beds to enable me to garden in ease. Although it’s still hard, the high raised beds give me dignity and independence to do some jobs without help and I appreciate that gift so much.

Charlene is a homemaker based in Oxfordshire. She enjoys sharing interiors and garden content on her Instagram Little Workers Bungalow 

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.