A Scots TV presenter is running an online “girls’ night in” to help women deal with stress and worry while cooped up in their homes.
Claudia Scott hopes the two-hour sessions will boost the mood of women who are trying to deal with uncertain times.
The former Miss Universe contestant has designed the Space to Be Me sessions as social group therapy – like traditional girls’ nights in with PJs, wine and chat.
Claudia said: “It’s a space where people can talk about their worries, connect, blow off some steam and unwind a little in this uncertain and lonely time.
“We welcome PJs, hair tied back, a glass of wine and any other home comforts to get you in a relaxed headspace away from the Covid frenzy.
“It’s not about getting drunk to get away from the stress, it’s about finding tools to deal with situations that arise and to take time to analyse the stresses that might be building.
“We really think people sharing their experiences can help them navigate through these times.”
Claudia set up the venture with pal Christina Chalk, whom she met while contesting Miss Universe.
Christina, a successful actress, was a Scottish representative on Britain and Ireland's Next Top Model.
After moving from country to country with her career she suffered from loneliness, which inspired her to start up Self Esteem Queens, a service to help build women’s confidence after experiencing some of her own personal battles.
Claudia said: “I’ve had a few problems with anxiety and, while I’m not telling anyone what the solutions are, I’m happy to give
opinions on their situations they talk about to the group.
“During sessions, we’ll be giving people a five-minute timeout to write down some of the stresses in the ‘wheel of life’ in their lives and we can then deal with them.
“We aim to send them away with a habit tracker, which hopefully helps people stay positive and be mindful of some of the habits that can add to stresses.”
Designer Yasmin Afshar, 28, said the session on the Zoom platform was priceless.
She added: “Claudia and Christina have created the perfect safe space to be open and confident about anxiety, mental health
and daily personal struggles.
“This is a network of non-judgmental support and guidances who, by the end of the session, feel like your long time friends.”
HR worker Tanya Hyde, 29, added: “It’s a great space where you can share anything you want, from your highs and lows without judgment.
"I also liked that it’s an open forum where you can ask for her help/guidance but I can also equally contribute and I’m also encouraged to do so.
“I’ve realised after hearing other people’s stories that I’m either tackling similar issues or have gone through similar motions/experiences – so it felt good I was able to share my insights and hopefully help them.”
Claudia also runs a retreat that helps workers with burnout, depression and anxiety. She presents the Claudia Tries health and lifestyle social media show on BBC Scotland.
● The Space to Be Me on Eventbrite here.
