July 15, 2025

I recently came across a Facebook post that caught my attention.

“Listening to birds reduces cortisol, slows your heart rate, and triggers parasympathetic calm.
Why? Because for 100,000+ years, birdsong meant “you’re safe.” Your body still remembers.”

It is a simple reminder, yet so true. Birds sing when there is no threat at hand. For our ancestors,
this was a sign that all was well. As the weeks have passed from spring into summer, I have been
paying more attention to the birdsong and noticing its impact. I have felt the waves of calm
throughout my body and release of tension.

And then, I had a conversation with Kelly Campbell (they/them), a trauma informed leadership
coach, about creating what is frequently named “safe space”
– where people feel comfortable
being their full selves, voicing opinions, and taking risks without fear of negative consequences.
Kelly shared that they have moved away from using the term “safe space” as everyone’s experience
of what is “safe enough” will be different depending on each person’s unique experience.

My felt experience of safety while listening to the birds taken together with my conversation with
Kelly brought me to an “aha moment” – we all have our own birdsong. What signals safety for me
will not necessarily be the same as what signals safety for someone else.

For me, it was a good reminder not to assume safety for all, just because I feel safe.

I encourage you to explore and notice your “birdsong” and to engage in curious conversation with
other people – family, friends, co-workers – about their own birdsong. This is particularly important
as we recognize minority mental health this month and how cultural, racial, and historical factors
shape people’s experience of safety.

With gratitude,
Elizabeth