Your Embodiment Relies on Taking Up Space

Taking up space in a world that was not built for you is an act of defiance, of courage, and sometimes, of deep discomfort. For many women, navigating a patriarchal society means constantly shrinking, adapting, and molding ourselves to fit an environment that often feels hostile to our presence and power. This pressure to make ourselves smaller—to be agreeable, to be “nice,” to not take up “too much” space—can lead us to disconnect from our bodies, from the very place where our instincts, needs, and desires reside.

Research in interpersonal neurobiology and trauma studies has shown that the body is deeply impacted by social structures and cultural norms. From a young age, girls learn to associate physical presence with risk. We’re taught to make ourselves palatable, not to “cause a scene,” and to take care of others’ feelings before our own. Over time, these messages sink deep into our bodies, shaping the way we hold ourselves, how much space we allow ourselves to occupy, and even the way we breathe.

This is why, for so many women, taking up space feels uncomfortable, even unsafe. When we try to speak louder, assert our needs, or move unapologetically, our nervous system may respond as though we’re in danger. We might feel anxious, self-conscious, or even ashamed. This reaction isn’t a flaw in our character; it’s an embodied response that has been shaped by years of social conditioning. Our bodies have internalized the idea that our presence, our voice, our very selves must be managed, contained, and often minimized.

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A Time to Practice

A meditation audio for you to practice taking up space.