Just Give Me Some Space

We all need this from time to time, to gather our thoughts, recharge, and feel whole again. Here are some ideas to make it a reality without leaving your home, or getting away from your hubby and kids.

- Sasha Gonzales

When things get busy and chaotic at home, it’s natural to want to escape from everyone for a little peace and quiet. In fact, taking back your personal space is healthy, and something you should do every now and then not just to recharge your energy, but also to reclaim your sense of self.

Dr Lim Boon Leng, a psychiatrist from Dr BL Lim Centre for Psychological Wellness at Gleneagles Medical Centre, says personal space is the area around a person usually a couple of metres or so that he or she would prefer others not to occupy. He says that when this space is invaded, it can make one feel uncomfortable or even unsafe something that is likely the result of evolution.

NOTHING TO FEEL GUILTY ABOUT

You shouldn’t feel bad about wanting or needing personal space away from your hubby and kids. Dr Lim says that while physical closeness between a couple is desirable, if Hubby demanded this all the time, you would probably get annoyed. An excessive need for physical closeness is also a sign of insecurity and a need for control on your husband’s part problems that can affect your relationship.

“Being physically close to your kids is also a wonderful feeling and essential for bonding,” Dr Lim adds. “However, even new mums need personal space. In the early days after birth, excessive closeness can point to an inability to ‘let go’ of your baby. That’s not what healthy bonding looks like, and may indicate the presence of psychological issues.