When things are difficult, we are not always able to do
something like taking ourselves off for a walk or calling
a friend. However, we can always do a Breathing Space
(see page 88) with an extra step—a Coping Space.
We introduced The Breathing Space in Week 20, and by now I hope you have had a chance to familiarise yourself with it and use it regularly. The Coping Space follows the same structure, but we introduce a self-soothing element to step 2. After acknowledging how you are feeling, bring your attention to your breathing and repeat silently to yourself "It's okay."
When we do this, we are not saying that the situation is okay—it may well not be—but rather accepting that whatever we feel is okay. It is our experience, even if we wish it weren't.
As well as repeating the words, you could place a hand on your chest or cross your arms paying attention to any points of contact. Practice the Coping Space any time this week when things feel a bit tricky. Practice it without any expectations.
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