Home has always held special meaning for me. As a designer, I care deeply about beauty and seek to provide my clients with a home that is beautiful to them. Yet home is also our refuge. It is where we revitalize ourselves and renew our energies to take on the world. These are primarily our private spaces.
So while our gathering spaces are quiet as we shelter in place, let’s take a look at some ways we can create a Sacred Space in our home. These spaces can help nourish us while we await the day our tables can be surrounded by loved ones.
First, choose a space in your home to set apart for your spiritual practices. I chose our front living room. The chairs look towards an east facing window that allows us to watch the sun rise as we pray and meditate each morning.
Next, Declutter and Clean. According to the Chopra Center, studies have shown that a neat and clean home can actually lower Cortisol levels. Anything we can do right now to keep calm is a good thing. Letting go of what does not serve you allows space for what does. Take this on in whatever way works for you.
Consider and Gather what you need for your spiritual practice. Do you need a chair? Room for a yoga mat? Book shelves or tables?
Before the Corona Virus pandemic, my personal practices include devotional and bible reading, journaling and prayer. I have a comfortable chair and ottoman, and stacking tables with my books and writing tools next to me. I also have a diffuser for essential oils to enhance the sensory experience. As with other spaces and purposes, be sure to have appropriate lighting for the activities you do. I also have a Sonos speaker to play soothing music.
During this time of heightened stress and stay at home orders, I have added my weights and yoga mat to my space for exercise, yoga and meditation. I have also added tapping to my days to help when my thoughts want to take me to a place I’d rather not go.
Check out my coach Jerry Burkey’s tapping videos here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aewTzSQwLRA
and Gabby Bernstein’s Anxiety relief workshop here: https://www.gabbywebinar.com/anxietyreliefworkshop/
Hang or place art and photos of places, images or people that inspire you and impart feelings of peace and harmony. I love this watercolor by Shane Artistry that sits across from my prayer chair and provides a soothing focal point.
And this original heart painting my husband bought on a trip to Florence brightens the space and fills it with love. Adding plants is a great way to bring the connection to nature into your sacred space. I love the way the heart shaped leaves of this Anthurium mimic the heart painting.
I know this time is difficult for all of us and the uncertainty can wreak havoc on our capacity to be peaceful. A Sacred Space and self care practices can help make this time less stressful and allow us to fill our cup so that we can be of service to those we love.
If you would like a complimentary video consult on creating a Sacred Space in your home please contact me below. I would love to help!