Are you dreaming of living in a community in Ecuador? Perhaps you’re drawn to the idea of shared experiences, deeper connections, and a more sustainable way of life. At Punta la Barca, a unique community nestled in the heart of Ecuador, we’ve created a vibrant space where locals and travelers come together to live, grow, and learn from one another. Here, we’ll explore what it means to “hold space” in a community, why it’s so vital, and how you can be part of a supportive, diverse, and dynamic environment.
What Is a Spaceholder, and Why Do Good Communities Always Have One?
A spaceholder is someone who intuitively nurtures safety, trust, and energy within a group. It doesn’t have to be an assigned role: whether it’s in a family, a circle of friends, or a workplace, chances are that you are already naturally taking up the spaceholding role. It involves noticing the dynamics of the group, addressing unspoken issues, and helping others feel seen and heard.
At Punta la Barca, the mix of cultures—local fishing village traditions interwoven with travelers from across the globe—creates an inspiring and rich tapestry. However, this diversity also brings its share of challenges, such as misunderstandings and unspoken expectations. On top of that, most travelers are only temporarily in the community, which gives the community not always enough time to naturally find its spaceholders.
In the first years of punta la barca (around 2012), when we didn’t realise yet the importance of the presence of someone naturally and intentionally taking up that role, small misunderstandings could suddenly turn into seemingly unresolvable problems 🤷♀️. Now, we prioritize the presence of spaceholders, helping to create a foundation of trust and understanding.
Two Key Skills for Great Spaceholding
Do you feel you naturally take up that role when you’re in a group? I’ve learned through the years two amazing tips to grow in it. If you’re considering living in a community in Ecuador (or anywhere else in the world), developing spaceholding skills is incredibly rewarding. At its core, spaceholding requires:
- Radical Acceptance: This is the skill to see and accept others without judgment. It’s about embracing the full spectrum of human emotions and experiences, and notice your own judgments when they come up.
- Healthy Boundaries: Guarding healthy boundaries is vital for yourself as a spaceholder. It is impossible to hold space for others when you don’t hold space for yourself first.
When the energy feels off and you are drawn to do something about it, the solution will lie in one of those. At Punta la Barca, these skills are essential for maintaining the harmony and vibrancy of our multicultural community. They’re also the cornerstone of personal growth and meaningful relationships.
Community in Ecuador at Punta la Barca
The mix of cultures at Punta la Barca finds each other around the values of freedom, fairness, and sustainability. Whether you’re joining us for a short stay or becoming a long-term member, you’ll find a welcoming environment that encourages connection, learning, and shared purpose. Curious about how our community is practically organized? Check out coliving prices & practicalities to learn more about our daily rhythms, shared meals, affordable financial contribution, and volunteering.
Making Friends and Building Connections
While traveling Ecuador, living in a community of mixed cultures is definitely the best way to immerse and connect, while having like minded travelers around to share the experience with. This counts as well for kids! Explore our blog “How to Make Friends While Worldschooling”, the result of an online circle for travelers about forming meaningful relationships if you’re worldschooling with kids.
Embrace the Journey
Living in community is a journey of growth, understanding, and collaboration. At Punta la Barca, we believe that spaceholding is one of the most valuable skills you can bring to a community. By practicing radical acceptance and setting healthy boundaries, you’ll not only contribute to the well-being of the group but also experience profound personal transformation.
If you’re ready to explore life in a community in Ecuador, we invite you to visit Punta la Barca. Together, we create a space where we all feel valued, connected, and inspired. For more information about our community and how you can join, reach out to Punta la Barca.
