How to Create a Meditation Space for Your Home
If you’re like me and live and work in a condo you may not have many places to meditate. Your sacred space could also be a place for reading, eating, or taking up meetings. For years I tried and sat in different areas of my home, I used every inch of my living room to attend remote retreats, trainings and workshops online. I meditated on the floor, on my couch, in bed, on a chair - and over time discovered the elements in a space that made a big difference in promoting my peace and clarity.
Creating a serene sanctuary should bring you happiness when you’re unwinding from a busy day, and if you don’t have the liberty of space (like myself), you can try creating your own special corner. '
Below are seven elements to consider when creating your own space.
1. Choose and dedicate a space
Any space can work as long as you can focus and relax, this could be in another room, nook, or den. Limit the amount of traffic or distraction in the room. If you live in a home this could also be a quiet, outdoor space.
2. Keep it Simple, clean and uncluttered
Less is more in creating harmony and balance, and keeping your space clean and tidy is important. You can also clear the energy by removing clutter, lighting incense, using an essential oil spray, smoke cleansing or by your own personal ritual.
3. Bring in nature
Bringing in plants and/or fresh flowers in a space can also bring it life. Whether it’s a house plant, or fresh tulips after running errands - it can help boost our mood, and reduce our stress.
4. Consider lighting and scents
If you have access to natural and/or ambient lighting this can help set the mood. Himalayan Salt Lamps are cozy and ambient, as well as candles. Better to burn soy candles if this is accessible to you since they’re a non-toxic alternative to burn. You wouldn’t want to sit anywhere where the sun is in your eyes, and if this is the case make sure you have blinds to diffuse any harsh light.. Using a diffuser with essential oils can also enhance the space.
5. Amplify with sound
Whenever I’m chanting to a particular track or vibration I prefer using a speaker than my phone. It’s never too loud or too soft, and varies depending on my mood. Sound can help keep you centered and focused.
6. Aim for comfort
Find out which cushions work for you. This all depends on your hip flexibility, some meditation cushions sit higher, and some are lower. Zabutons (cushion for knees and ankles) or sheep skins are a nice addition for extra comfort and warmth, if you sit for long periods of time. A yoga mat and blanket is also an accessible option.
7. Keep writing materials close to you
Inspiration and emotion can arise when you complete your practice. It really helps to have writing materials close to you so you can reflect and journal what comes up for you. Maybe you’ve unlocked an idea, or feel vulnerable enough to express how you really feel - writing it after your meditation is part of the healing process.
Although there are a lot of elements to consider, at the end of the day you don’t need anything fancy to make it special. What’s important is that your meditation space works for you and your lifestyle. It became too much effort for me to put everything away and take it out while I was using the room, and so I created a space where I could both meditate and live in. My home became my sanctuary, and not separate from where I practice. I considered neutral colors, with splashes of bold color that inspired me, soothing textures, and everything at my fingertips. It’s a space that walk into feeling calm and connected, where natural light shines through floor-ceiling-windows, where (when clean and tidy 🥲) I can sit anywhere, close my eyes, and take a deep breath.