Humans create sacred spaces all the time. They do it when making dinner for friends, pouring a cup of tea before curling up with a good book, or putting on a morning playlist while getting dressed. They do it on the job, too, adding plants and pictures to workspaces to create a space that evokes a sense of calm and focus.
These spaces aren’t created by accident. Instead, their creation sets in motion and builds upon the energy throughout the day, gently reminding usto stay connected tothe quiet inner world of the Divine.
Let’s begin, with purpose.
It’s a busy world and most people tend to spread their energy thin. Becoming centered, grounded and focused on the lifeyou want to live starts with the intention to do so. But staying centered, grounded and focused isn’t easy, which is why it’s so important to create sanctuaries and havens that allow forpause and reflection.
The ritual of how you enter something creates the space for what youwant to create. In other words, the simple act of entering a space and offering prayers and gratitudeacknowledgesthat this space is sacredtoyou. When said with purpose and intention, you affect the energy you bring to the space and deepen your connection to it.
Start at home.
Your home is more than just a pit stop between work and play; it should feel like a true space to relax and unwind. Whether it’sa dorm room,acastle or somewhere in between, give your space a designated “sanctuary” you can retreat to for comfort and connect to your higher power. Over time, you’ll see its calming effects reverberate throughout the entire space—and carry over outside of your home, too.
- Find a space that feels good to you. It could be a corner of your bedroom or under a tree in your backyard. Trust your gut on this.
- Build an altar. Declutter the space and create a simple altar or an elevated space, such as the top of adresser, that brings a sense of calm.
- Personalize it. Choose a few special pieces to make the space more personal and tranquil. Stones, pictures and special trinkets—whatever soothes your soul. Subtract and add to your altar pieces that inspire, and let it evolve over time.
- Add sounds to your space. Meditation music, water fountains and sound machines muffle the outside noise and settle the nervous system.
- Add smells as well. Smudge sticks, incense, essential oils and candles heighten the olfactory senses and clear the space of lingering energy.
- Light a fire. This is a common way to welcome in the sacred in many cultures. A simple candle can shift a mood or mindset, and it can be effective to help set space quickly. Introduce this practice to the sacred spaces where an open flame is permitted.
Take it with you; Build a toolkit.
Builda small pouch of “essentials” to keep on hand to help invoke a sense of tranquility, spirituality and peace on the go. Leave it in your car, desk at work, backpack or purse. Choose pieces that are easy remindersto connect with you, nature and Spirit. You can include a bundle of sage, a tealight candle, a few stones, a picture ofyourfavorite animal, and headphones. Create a “Sacred Space” playlist on your phone and select music to help reinforce those connections when setting space.
Let your intention guide your intuition.
Take joy in creating sacred space. Practice creatingthem, invitingthe opportunity to connectwith your higher self in the processand, over time, it will be easier to find balance when things start to feel “off.” Take the time to feel the energy and let each space evolve. You can create sacred space anywhere, as sacredness and spirit know no physical boundaries. Space is inherently sacred, and so are you.