Moroccan-inspired room. Image via Destination: Unknown.
It’s an urban jungle out there. Sometimes we need a little breathing room to ground ourselves; remind ourselves of the grander what’s what, what’s where and maybe a little check in with who we are. Or at least that’s what I need. Especially this time of year with the endless hustle and bustle.
A comfy space is really all you need. Image via Luur Design.
When a long bath won’t do or the escape to yoga class isn’t going to happen (maybe because it’s not your thing, gasp, or rather breathe…), consider making some meditative space in your home. We won’t all be designing the yoga or meditation sanctuary (though I’d love to!), but we can carve out quiet spaces for reflection, for prayer, to express gratitude, or set our day’s intentions. Whether this space is integrated permanently into your living environment or just some special items you call on to help set the mood as the need arises, finding mindful time within your home is important. Because where better to be relaxed and revitalized than at home?
New to quiet time or stuck on how to inspire the right vibe within the bigger picture of your home – here are a few ideas to help you create rejuvenating spaces:
Choose an area where you can feel relaxed.
I find rooms with doors work well, but that’s just me.
Historically the family hearth is where everyone gathered to unwind together. If you’re not the sort to sit lotus style on a pillow, just you and your mantra, don’t fret – it can be enough to set up your mantle with reminders of those things precious to you and just take in this view from your sofa.
I love the way this person has incorporated pictures, ornamental pieces, nature and lighting. Image courtesy of Apartment Therapy
The bedroom makes perfect sense for some quiet time. You won’t regret carving out a few minutes of mindful time after you wake up or before you go to sleep (it just might help you start the day right or drift off peacefully).
The way the light streams into this room, the warm and quiet ambiance make it a perfect place for reverie. Image courtesy of Treehugger.
A Nook or empty corner of a room can serve the purpose beautifully:
This personal altar is a stunning place to pay homage.
The kitchen, for so many of us the heart of the home, is busy with the quotidian. While this might be exactly what you need escape from you can also reclaim the space. Move the multi-colour-coded calendar out, pepper the fridge with photos and art from your tiniest artists and brew some something warm to drink.
Image courtesy of Ultra Swank
Adding items that speak to you
Whatever space you’ve chosen, incorporating icons, art, or pieces from nature can help relax and inspire you. And so can the addition of some personal artifacts like photos and mementos that embody those top priorities in your life.
Don’t forget to set the ambient environment. Our homes are one of the only places we can exercise a modicum of control over what alerts our senses. So turn down lights or let the sun shine in; burn some incense; turn on or play some music. You and the world around you will all be better for it.
This is an amazing image! I’m relaxed and inspired already… Image by Indian Gypsy.
