Creating Your Sacred Practice Space
Shockingly, when we look at our current living space it is reflective of life lacking inward mindfulness. When we take a closer look at our home or apartment, we find it full of objects, furniture, knick-knacks, and technology. All of which creates a space of clutter and distraction. Even pulling out a mat for practice can be cumbersome and challenging. It is merely impossible to attend to spiritual practices. Input we receive from the external world can be relentless and inhibits our ability to hear the subtle voice of wisdom that comes from within. There is no longer balance, harmony, and inward mindfulness often leading to exhaustion and causing us to look externally to be rescued. This whirlwind of nonstop activity becomes the norm rather than the exception.
Challenges for Yogic Seekers
Today, yogic seekers face an additional challenge in harmonizing thoughtful meditative life with daily, practical life. Many become so overwhelmed with the day-to-day busyness that it feels like an undertaking to practice. No more are the days of practicing in forests hidden away from society as it was for ancient yogis. No, we live in a society whose values seek support outside of themselves rather than seeking an inward life of balance. One of the ways to counteract and meet this challenge is to create a sacred space within our homes.
Creating a Sacred Space
Creating a sacred space within our homes creates a physical clearing where we are better able to access a sense of spaciousness within ourselves. It is a place that we can step into at any moment for contemplation and rejuvenation and invites us to deepen our practice. Setting aside a room or a corner designated only to practice helps us to create a temple for meditation and rest. This space can be created in any way that feels good and is practical to you. It can be designed in a way that is unique to you and your practice. Whatever form this room or corner takes, it should feel like a sanctuary. A place of tranquility, calm, and peace.
The first step in creating your space, whether it is big or small, should be conducive for spiritually mature practice and a place that can be used for a long time. It should be one that can continually be available to use for practice and a space that is organized, decorated, and maintained with care. Creating an outwardly harmonious sacred practice space becomes internalized, inspiring a deepening in practice, as well as rest and find solace more easily as we connect with the essence of who we truly are.