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.

It took me a while to find the right name for this section of the blog. Then the word ‘kumbla’ popped into my head. 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”.

I’ve drawn upon the image of a kumbla as safe space/place. Yet, how do you find peace when your home is also your place of work? In this feature Kent based hybrid worker Ronke, tells us about her kumbla.

My cosy place is my sofa – or chaise lounge. I stayed at an Airbnb a while back and they had one of these. It was so comfy that I knew when I got a new place, I would need one.

The sofa is placed a few metres away from my TV with a small side table alongside where I place my snacks and drinks. It is also next to the radiator which is handy during the winter.
Best of all, it’s also next to two large windows which overlook the river.

In the day, I get lots of light which really uplifts my mood.  At the end of my work day, in the evening I put the lamp on which makes the place very snug and cosy; especially when I am wrapped up with a blanket.

I love it there!

You can find Ronke on Instagram where she regularly shares all things cute coffee spots, travel and brown beauty friendly makeup.

If you missed the first 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.