Your home is the space in which you will spend the most time. It should be relaxing, aesthetic, functional and representative of your personality. This new series, “Love Where You Live,” will show you how to bring new life to your home and make it the space you’ve always wanted it to be.
In the last few years especially, measurable evidence has emerged that meditation can have a great impact on your health and well-being. It has been shown to reduce anxiety, help treat depression, and improve concentration and memory. Meditation may also slow the brain’s aging process.
All of these meditation benefits are convincing enough to create a dedicated meditation space in your own home. Whether you have just a corner or an entire room, you can create a pleasing and useful space to be well on your way to practicing daily. Here are a few simple steps to get started:
- Find the most relaxing space in your home – You may have a window that looks out into your garden or towards the mountains. You can also consider the decor indoors; a favorite picture or alcove could promote the best atmosphere for your practice.
- Make sure the area feels fresh and clean – Don’t pick a place where you know clutter will inevitably end up, especially chores like laundry. A nice breeze or incense can be calming and create a space you’ll want to take time in.
- Avoid distractions or anything too dark – You might prefer low lighting for your meditation, but try to stay away from dark wall colors, heavy curtains, or anything that sets the wrong tone. Most meditation spaces work best when they feel light and free of visual and auditory distractions.
- Consider light – Light will play an important role in your practice. If you feel your best in sunlight, scout of the brightest space in your home and make it even more relaxing by using sheer curtains. If you like low lighting, set up a space for candles or practice in front of a fireplace, just be sure that once you are settle in, you are not distracted.
- Comfort is key – Meditation involves enjoying the space you’re in. Make meditation last longer by giving yourself something comfortable to sit on such as a yoga mat or soft cushion. Sitting directly on the floor is best avoided, so think about adding throw pillows in light tones or even adding a chair to the space.
- Have a place for your phone – It can be grouped with every other distraction in your home, but phones seem to constantly sit in our pockets or hands throughout the day. Find a specific place to put your phone when you sit down to meditate. Your best bet may be leaving it in a separate room, but if you’d like to use a mediation app, listen to music, or use a timer, you’ll need it with you. Locate a shelf, drawer, or tabletop that allows you to use it for meditation without being tempted to pick it up. If you place it just out of reach and even out of your line of sight, you’ll be less inclined to interrupt your practice.
By creating a meditation space, you will add another functional and enjoyable space in your home. Does your meditation practice have you feeling grateful? Visit the Alaris Gratitude Corner to share your story for the chance to win a Starbucks gift card.
