A home should always be a place of respite from the outside world. An oasis of calm from a hectic and crowded society. We fill it with bright and soft objects, photos, and pockets of space that are calming and comforting.
But what if you carve a quiet corner at home, a Zen-like refuge completely devoted to the practice of meditation? Whether you’re considering starting a meditation practice just now, or at a beginner level, creating a meditation space at home is an enticing project that will greatly benefit you.
Why Meditate?
Meditation comes with such a long list of benefits, to the point that doctors are already recommending it. “Meditation is increasingly being dished out as medical advice which makes me so happy. It was not happening ten years ago. So many physical ailments are amplified by stress which means they can be reduced through meditation techniques,” says Andy Puddicombe, co-Founder of popular meditation app Headspace.
Several studies have also been released showing the benefits of meditation to the brain in a scientific light, including a research conducted among Tibetan monks. Further, a research review published in JAMA Internal Medicine (2014) found that meditation was about as effective as an antidepressant, helping relieve anxiety, pain and depression.
Creating a meditation nook will not only encourage you to meditate consistently, but also provide an environment that helps you get into the zone, free from distractions.
Here’s a Step-by-Step Guide on how you can create a meditation nook in your home.
1. Find a dedicated space
You don’t need large amounts of space, or a whole room. It can be a nice nook or corner in a room that you love most in your house, the one you feel the most positive vibes in. Is it your living room with the natural light, or your bedroom with its high ceiling?
Perhaps the one with a view, or the quietest room in the house, with the least amount of traffic.
Once you find the perfect spot, the next steps are the fun part.
2. Clean and de-clutter.
Meditation is all about clearing your mind from clutter. So should be the physical meditation space you’ll be using.
Once you’ve chosen your meditation space, give it a Marie Kondo treatment. Remove things that don’t spark joy. And as much as you can, empty the space to leave the least number of things. If you can, empty it completely, so you’ll be starting on a blank canvas.
3. Start with the basics.
There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to decorating your space. But if you need some guidance, here are some tips from interior stylist, Jason Grant, as featured on The Spruce.
For basics: “incorporate simple cushions, a textured area rug, a small stool, and you’re ready to meditate in a no-frills, yet chic space.”
You can also opt to add a basket or a box made from natural materials, where you can place a yoga mat, a clean towel, cushions and other accessories you need to store.
4. Add objects that help promote a relaxed state.
Seeing the space come together is both exciting and fulfilling. After taking a few photos for posterity, now’s the time to add objects that will help promote a meditative and relaxing state.
Plants will make a great addition to this space. They enhance moods, purify the air, and can even absorb sound, thus being able to provide a more relaxing environment.
On the small stool, place aromatherapy candles or essential oils (READ: The Health Benefits of Aromatherapy), so they’re always within an arm’s reach whenever you need to set the mood.
Consider adding crystals, incense sticks, stones, and salt lamps as well, if you have enough space.
5. Add a personal touch.
Now your meditation space is coming together. But wait, there’s something lacking. It needs your personal flair.
Think of the little touches that will make your space feel more like you. Perhaps an art work, a quilt, a string of beads, a musical instrument, a book, anything that epitomizes your unique light and presence in the world.
6. No technology allowed.
No phones and laptops allowed. Since you might need sound – either for guided meditation or relaxing music that will help get you in the zone, we strongly suggest that you use a music player and a speaker for this.
It might seem impractical at first, given that it’s easy to play audio from your phone, but here’s the logic behind it. Imagine being two minutes into your meditation, when you hear your phone ringing (uh-oh, it’s from work). It will be a major distraction, and can instantly shatter your practice.
During meditation, it’s best to close your gadgets. It’s the only way for you to train your mind to stay in the present, and meditate consistently.
Now, you’re all set to meditate. Deeply breath in and out as you settle in your tranquil space that will have you saying namaste in no time.
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