Respecting the “liminal space”
To be in a liminal space means to be on the precipice of something new but not quite there yet.
You can be in a liminal space physically, emotionally, or metaphorically. -verywellmind.com
It’s an interesting concept as there are many reasons why you may feel you’re in that in-between, about-to-launch kind of space. For me, it’s tied to the major changes and shifts I’ve had in the past 2 years. I’m almost done, almost there, and getting ready to start the real business of healing and moving on with my life. It’s a lot to look forward to even if much of it still feels undefined.
In truth, there are times when it feels unbearably “squishy” and days can feel like “meh”. But having an undefined place isn’t a bad thing and in fact this is a space where you may find you can grow. It’s more like standing at the threshold of where you were and where you may be next, and allows for any transitions or shifts to take place in your heart or mind. It can be difficult to adjust to this nebulous area, but it’s important to be patient with yourself and to what’s going on around you while this happens.
When do you feel it’s over?
This varies for everyone and could be something that continue to unfold over time. Like a series of curtains that pull back and reveal what the next step should be, the next choice, the best path.
So while I exist in my liminal space for now, I’m also using meditation to help focus energy and thinking and to calm the “what if’s”. It works well to redefine my thinking and flow of energy. Early in the day works best for me as it’s an opportunity to have the quiet of the day, the birdsong outside, and a lack of distractions.—small dog exception!
Recognizing this space has proven to be a grounding for me both physically and mentally. Once I came to acknowledge and accept that this is where I am, it became easier to work with this transition and become comfortable with the undefined quality it represents.
Try this:
Sitting comfortably someplace quiet, close your eyes and be still for a moment. Then, take one full breath in, slowly and measured, followed by an outbreath at same measured pace. Think about the movement of that breath as it comes into your body and then leaves again. When anything else comes into mind, immediately focus on the breath and how it is flowing—managing the in and out of breathing. Starting with ten full breaths has a calming and settling effect and relaxes your body as well as your mind.
