Shelter
Also known as home, housing, protection from elements
The need for physical protection from the environment — a safe place to live, sleep, and take refuge from weather and external threats.
When met or unmet
When met
- Safe place to live
- Protection from elements
- Security of home
When unmet
- Housing insecurity
- Exposure to elements
- No safe place to be
Common expressions
I need a roof over my head Home is everything I don't feel safe where I live
Strategies
- Maintaining a safe and comfortable living space
- Having reliable access to housing
- Creating a sense of home wherever you are
- Ensuring protection from weather and elements
Recognition questions
- → Do I have a safe place to sleep and rest?
- → Am I protected from weather and environmental threats?
- → Do I feel secure in my living situation?
Somatic markers
When met
- Feeling of being contained and protected
- Ability to relax fully
- Body at ease in familiar surroundings
When unmet
- Hypervigilance and inability to relax
- Feeling exposed and vulnerable
- Anxiety about basic survival
Shadow side
- Hoarding or excessive attachment to material security
- Never feeling safe enough despite adequate shelter
- Isolating oneself excessively within shelter
Cultural considerations
Shelter forms vary enormously: from permanent structures to nomadic dwellings. Home meaning extends beyond physical shelter to belonging and identity.