CindyCreating a comfy meditation space can be as simple or as elaborate as you wish. It is an expression of your own unique self, which is what brings the fun into making this meditation/sacred space. If you consider the reasons why people are drawn to practice mediation, then it can become more clear how to set it up and decorate. Why are so many people of all ages learning to meditate these days? Research has shown a regular meditation practice can provide a sense of tranquility which can benefit your health physically and emotionally, help you remain more calm during stressful times and can bring a peace within you which may stay with you throughout the day. Meditating every day and choosing the same time of day when you can take 10 minutes to relax and meditate in order to become centered is helpful. If you have a very busy schedule, then squeezing it in whenever possible will work well too. Making sure you carve out some “Me time” is essential for your overall health and well being. Adding inviting elements to your space/refuge/sanctuary will draw you in and encourage you to create a consistent meditation practice by providing peaceful energy, comfort, and a place of deep relaxation.
Here are some helpful and fun components for making your ideal meditation space:
#1 A quiet room or corner
Often, simply finding a “quiet” space in your world can challenging! Best case, your meditation refuge is naturally quiet…however, reality often requires using noise-cancelling technology…for me, the best sound masking device is the hands and ear-free, Dohm, Classic Natural Sound Machine.
You can make your space as large or as small as you want! The corner of a room is fine as long as it is comfortable for you and there are limited distractions. I meditate early in the morning because it is so quiet and there are fewer distractions. If you have an entire room to use, then your choices will be numerous as to how you set it up. White and very pale yellows are the best colors for this kind of space because they are neutral and calming. Light colored curtains, pillows, and artwork will convey a more serene atmosphere. Less is better and limiting the amount of objects in the room will help you avoid distractions – keeping it as simple, beautiful, and uncluttered as possible provides more peace.
#2 A cushion or chair
One of the most important components is your meditation cushion or chair. It needs to be super cozy and soft! I love my Reehut Zafu Yoga Meditation Cushion It is a round meditation cushion filled with buckwheat, has a zippered organic cotton cover, is machine washable and provides comfort, support and grounding to your relaxation time. I also use a yoga mat underneath my meditation cushion. I have a Gaiam yoga mat so that my feet and ankles rest on a cushioned surface. If you choose a chair make sure it is supportive for your back and very comfortable for sitting to ensure you will stay consistent in your practice.
#3 Added grounding elements and personal comforts
To personalize your space, you can bring in certain crystals, affirmation stones, beads, candles – anything beautiful that helps add more energy to the room. Certain crystals help create lighter energy in your space. Selenite is great for keeping negative energy away. Rose quartz symbolizes love and an open, forgiving heart. Tigers eye is associated with balance and can help with overcoming fear and anxiety. Positive affirmation glass stones have wonderful calming affirmations printed or carved into them such as, “I am successful,” “I attract love and abundance,” and “I enjoy perfect health.” Soothing colors, beads and pleasant smelling candles make this even more of your unique space.
#4 Lavender and sage smudging spray
This is also used to clear negativity from any space and on your body. It is a wonderfully scented smokeless replacement for smudging. I use Sacred Holy Sage Spray from www.houseblesser.com. I spray this 3 times before I begin meditating and follow with 3 long, deep breaths, follow with my favorite mantra and relax as deeply as possible. Then I ask, “What would you like me to know?” Go silent, let my thoughts pass, focus on my breath and set myself into “Receiving” mode. Answers may not come right away, but they will come whether soon or next week … when it is the right time.
#5 An open heart bursting with love
A very important part of a successful meditation practice is bringing an abundance of love and an open heart into your sacred space. You can open your heart more fully by breathing deeply, listening to what your heart is telling you, following your joy and repeating positive affirmations such as, “I bring light and love to myself.” What you send out you will receive in return!
Enjoy creating your meditation/sacred space. Your practice will enhance your life and help you enjoy it more fully.
Namaste,
Cindy
