Territory as a coping mechanism

STRESSED? Tired? Having trouble focusing? Keep calm and use coping skills! Coping is a intervention that helps us deal with unwanted, difficult and attention sucking environments.

DID YOU KNOW? Territories are not only for wolves and lions. Human’s also have territories. Human territories are affected my both biological and social factors. These territories can be used positively to help you cope with mental stressors.

SIZE of territories vary! From country borders, to state lines, to city streets, to counties, to neighborhoods, to your home, to your room, to your favorite spot at the dinner table. 

A territory is anywhere, a physical place, that you feel comfortable in and aren’t worried about running into that guy who asked for your number after class last week. In your territory, there is decreased need to be constantly alert because you know what to expect and can easily make predictions. Being in your own territory allows your mind to relax more than it would with the same external stressors in an alternate environment.

My favorite example of territory is my own bedroom. When I’m in my room, it provides a place of refuge and retreat. I have almost* full control over the flow of information in and out of my room (*my 4 housemates sometimes think my room is their room). I can control whether my room is private with the door locked or semi-private with the door open for visitors. My bedroom is familiar and easy to understand. Everything makes sense because I put it there.

Besides going to your own personal territory, there are other ways to cope with daily stressors. Try walking in nature, finding a supportive group of friends of family, practicing yoga or meditation, or setting yourself up for success by actively seeking a quiet, distraction free environment to study or think!