Identifying My Sources of Safety and Comfort

Recognizing the people, places, and activities that help you feel grounded

GeneralInfographicFree ResourceLast reviewed April 2026

Identifying My Sources of Safety and Comfort

Recognizing the people, places, and activities that help you feel grounded

Identifying My Sources of Safety and Comfort

Recognizing the people, places, and activities that help you feel grounded

Feeling safe is a fundamental human need. Polyvagal theory explains that our nervous system constantly scans the environment for cues of safety or danger, and that genuine feelings of calm arise when we receive consistent signals of connection and security (Porges, 2021). A safe space is any person, place, or activity that helps your nervous system shift into a state of calm and openness. Knowing what your safe spaces are means you can turn to them intentionally when you feel overwhelmed.

Safe People

People who listen without judgment, support you, and accept you as you are. These might include a caregiver, family member, friend, teacher, counselor, or pet.

Safe Places

Physical locations where you feel calm and secure. These could be your bedroom, a park, a library, a relative's house, a place of worship, or anywhere that feels like a refuge.

Safe Activities

Things you do that help you express yourself and feel good. Examples include drawing, playing sports, listening to music, reading, writing, building things, or spending time outdoors.

Safe Routines

Predictable patterns in your day that help you feel settled. This might include a morning ritual, a bedtime routine, a weekly family activity, or regular time with a friend.

Safe Sensory Experiences

Sounds, textures, smells, or tastes that help you feel calm. A favorite blanket, a specific song, the smell of a home-cooked meal, or the feeling of warm water can all serve as sensory anchors.

You deserve to feel safe. Building a map of your safe spaces gives you a plan for when things feel hard.

Safe spaces are personal. What feels comforting to one person may not feel the same to another, and that is completely okay.