
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!
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