More people are incorporating mindfulness practices into their daily routines, driven by benefits such as stress reduction, improved focus, and overall well-being.
If you are among those who are adding meditation to your weekly routine, then good for you!
One of the first things you need to do to set yourself up for success is to create a sacred space for your daily meditations. I call this « creating a sanctuary » because you are organizing a space whose purpose is to offer refuge, safety, and peace for you and your inner thoughts. This should be a quiet space that affords you some privacy, where you can practice undisturbed. Having this space is a way of honoring yourself by having a place that is solely yours and represents your ideals. Over time, just entering into the space of the altar has an effect on your energy and mood.
In this space, you will need a spot where you can be comfortable, whether a chair, sofa or a mat and pillows on the floor. Consider adding some blankets for your comfort as well.
A meditation altar is a designated and often sacred space set up for the purpose of meditation, prayer, or reflection.
It typically includes meaningful objects such as candles, incense, spiritual symbols, or images that hold personal significance. The altar serves as a focal point to create a serene and focused environment, helping individuals connect with their spiritual or meditative practices. It’s a customizable space that varies based on individual beliefs, traditions, or personal preferences.
The five senses and your meditation sanctuary.
Decide now on a space in your home where you will practice regularly and customize it with items that are meaningful to you. Here are some suggestions you can pick from, categorized by sense.
- Sight: candles, Himalayan salt lamp, images, quote or affirmations, oracle cards
- Smell: incense, candles, diffuser, fresh herbs
- Sound: chimes, music, sound bowl,
- Taste: water, tea, infused water
- Touch: statue, crystals, gemstones, plants, sand, stones, Mala beads
Some people will cleanse their space to rid it of negative energy. Burning a bundle of sage or seagrass or palo santo is ancient practice still used today to clear a space before prayer or meditation.
My newest book « My Space: Creating a Sanctuary for Self-Reflection goes into a lot more detail and provides a wealth of ideas for setting up a sanctuary, indoors or outdoors. It’s part of a six-part series for introspection, that will bring you transformative insights leading to positive changes and empowerment!
