Whilst you may not be able to make this 'perfect' kind of space, don't let that stop you. Setting up a beautiful, peaceful and sensual space adds pleasure and meaning to practice. These things help habits stick, because they make you feel good. It is well known that the environments we are in have a huge effect on our mental and physical well-being.
So let's have a look at how you can set up a meditation space at home!
So let's have a look at how you can set up a meditation space at home!
Things to consider:
- Privacy
Your mind will settle faster if it knows it is safe from judgement of others. So close the door. - Non-interruption
Similarly if you turn off your phone. put up a sign or let others know, then your mind will relax, knowing it won't be bothered by external things. - Make it beautiful - a 'feel-good' space
Think serene and calm. How can you do that? Candles, incense, decoration? You choose. - Keep the room clean and uncluttered
'Clutter outside creates clutter in our minds'. Start meditation with a pre-tidy up. This helps you to move before you settle. I love this part of my routine. Make tidying a pleasure! - Make it comfortable
Use cushions, a chair or even a bed. If you’re sitting on the floor, use a cushion or blankets to prop your hips up higher than your knees. This will help take the pressure off the knees and open the hips. If you use a chair, make sure you have a proper backrest or cushion. Support your body in establishing a good posture. - Lighting
Feel into your bodily preference. Natural light is ideal. - Bring in Nature
Studies show nature is soothing and healing. Plants, water, earth, fire - from an intentional perspective, they create balance and connection to our own nature. - Personalize your space
This could be a picture of your dog or family - tems you see to help you focus on what is 'really' valuable to you and help you to transition to a quiet, present mind-set, to ignite and touch the heart and to inspire you. It needn't be a religious altar! - Activate the senses
Whether it’s aromatic candles, incense sticks or essential oils, using a fragrance can help. “The sense of smell is powerful,” De La Rosa says. “It’s not just attracting us to the place and practice, but embedding the experience even more. The more it’s a multisensory experience, the more it sticks to us.” - Take it with you
If you know you’ll be away from home, consider taking some small piece of your space with you. This will help connect you to the feeling of the space.
It doesn't have to be perfect!
You can see in the photo I'm meditating with a group of teachers, in the school. I often bring my beautiful blanket with me. It's enough to say to the people 'you are special' or 'this is a special time and place'. It prmes the mind to focus on what is important. Here & now.
Let me know what your space is like
I'd love to see pictures and hear about it. If you don't have a space yet feel free to come to any of our classes and courses, or a weekend workshop, or a retreat.
You can see in the photo I'm meditating with a group of teachers, in the school. I often bring my beautiful blanket with me. It's enough to say to the people 'you are special' or 'this is a special time and place'. It prmes the mind to focus on what is important. Here & now.
Let me know what your space is like
I'd love to see pictures and hear about it. If you don't have a space yet feel free to come to any of our classes and courses, or a weekend workshop, or a retreat.