• During press for “Wicked,” a journalist created a moment that spawned memes.
• She spoke of “holding space” for Cynthia Erivo’s performance of “Defying Gravity.”
• Experts say “holding space” means being fully present for others and yourself.
• It can have benefits for mental health, such as stress reduction and relief from loneliness.
• It can also be a form of self-care for marginalized groups.

When journalist Tracy E. Gilchrist interviewed “Wicked” co-stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo on their recent press junket, it created a viral moment that lit up the internet with memes.

In a video published initially on Out, Gilchrist told Erivo, “This week, people are taking the lyrics of ‘Defying Gravity’ and really holding space with that, and feeling power in that.”

In response, Erivo told Gilchrist that she “didn’t know that was happening” and that it was “really powerful,” clearly feeling emotional.

The video exploded online, with many people questioning exactly what “holding space” meant, whether it was a new trend, and what impact it could really have.

However, mental health experts say the concept of “holding space” for yourself or others isn’t new, and the act can indeed have a profound impact on your health and well-being.

What does “holding space” mean?

“Holding space for someone else is about showing up fully, being present, truly listening, and allowing them to process their feelings at their own pace,” explained Megan Drummond, a Licensed Psychotherapist and founder of Megan Drummond Psychotherapy.

She also noted that it’s not about trying to fix their problems.

“It means moving beyond the day-to-day surface stuff and asking meaningful questions,” Drummond added, “accepting the responses with openness, and resisting the urge to downplay or fill the discomfort that often comes with big emotions.”

We can also apply the concept of holding space to ourselves, she said, by allowing ourselves the freedom to feel, reflect, and rest without self-criticism or the feeling that we must do something.

“You may be upset, grieving, joyful, or just taking stock, but by slowing down and not playing the ‘I’ll deal with it later’ game, we allow ourselves the time and compassion to heal and grow,” said Drummond.

How “holding space” can boost your mental health

Amie Grant, LPCC, founder of Take Up Space Therapy Services, noted that the practice of holding space creates deeper relationships and a sense of trust. It can also combat loneliness.

“When someone feels seen and heard, it can be a profoundly healing experience,” she said.

Grant further explained that holding space for ourselves allows us to connect with our own emotions and values, moving us toward greater authenticity.

“This practice strengthens emotional resilience and helps us regulate stress by interrupting the cycles of shame and guilt that can arise when we don’t feel ‘enough,’” she said.

Grant pointed out that this can be especially important for those who are marginalized, such as women and LGBTQIA+ individuals.

“When we hold space for ourselves, we actively resist the narratives that tell us to prioritize productivity, conformity, or perfection and instead affirm our humanity and inherent worth,” she said.

In other words, “holding space” is a form of mindfulness, the practice of focusing your awareness, calming busy thoughts, and being rooted in one’s body in the moment.

Mindfulness can be practiced in various ways, including meditation or everyday activities such as walking, cooking, or listening to a favorite song.

In fact, mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) has been associated with numerous physical and mental health benefits.

A 2021 meta-analysis suggested that MSBR may help lower diastolic blood pressure.

A 2018 study also found that MBSR could boost mental health by lowering work stress, anxiety, and depression.

Grant additionally emphasized that holding space for yourself is not a selfish act.

“It’s a radical act of self-care and community care that fosters resilience, emotional regulation, and a deeper sense of belonging,” she said.

Takeaway

On a recent press junket for the movie “Wicked,” interviewer Tracy E. Gilchrist inspired a flurry of memes when she told star Cynthia Erivo that she was “holding space” for her performance of the song “Defying Gravity.”

Mental health professionals say this practice involves being fully present with someone else without trying to solve their problems or minimize them.

We can also hold space for ourselves by allowing the experience of emotions without casting judgment.

Holding space for ourselves and others can provide several mental health benefits, including relieving loneliness, reducing stress, and building stronger relationships.

It can also be seen as an act of self-care for those who have been marginalized.