By now know that meditation is good for your body and mind. Yet, creating a regular meditation practice can be challenging, staying consistent even more so. In my quest to make it easier, I tend to put aside all rules.
Those who work away from home or have a houseful of others, the challenge can start by just finding a quiet place to sit. You can create a meditation space in your home or find a sanctuary nearby your place of work that sets you up for a successful practice. After all, your surroundings play an important role in helping you to quiet your thoughts and become more mindful.
A dedicated meditation space, whether at home or away, increases your concentration and makes it easier to go from a mode of doing and going to just simply being. You can forget about work, kids activities and household responsibilities while you pay attention to your breath and come into present moment awareness.
When you have a dedicated meditation space, it’s a gentle yet powerful reminder to meditate and helps you establish that consistent practice. Every time you pass it, you look forward to your next session. Here are some hints to creating a meditation space that you’ll want to return to:
Designing a meditation space at home
- Choose the area. Make sure it’s away from the hustle and bustle of the house. You can set aside a corner of a room and set up decorative screens or if you have the space, a separate room works great.
- Clean up. Removing clutter allows you to keep your meditation space tidy and inviting. Sweep or vacuum the floor and wash the windows. Make it a sacred space, removing your shoes when you enter.
- Lower the volume. Aim for a quiet environment so you can appreciate the silence or listen to guided meditation online. A pink noise machine or fan will block out street noise.
- Add inspiring objects. What items can you add to your space to make it more calming and peaceful? There are lots of options, including posters, statues, and prayer flags. Candles, soft lighting, cozy blankets, a table fountain and a plant or two help set the mood.
- Add comfortable seating. If you’re comfortable on a meditation cushion, try out a variety before you find the one that works best for you. I you prefer sitting in a chair, find one that keeps you comfortable, yet alert.
- Store literature. Keep your meditation library here. That may include inspirational books, books on technique, or any book that helps bring you peace. Install some shelves and cover your books with fabric to keep them pretty and protected.
- Screen out distractions. Turn off your phone and keep your laptop out of sight. Let your family know that you’ll be out of reach for a while.
Finding a meditation space when you work away from home
- Browse community listings. If you like practicing in a group, a space away from home may be an attractive supplement or a way to help you get started with meditation. Check out what’s available in your neighborhood. Yoga studios and college campuses are good options. If you live in the Yosemite area, I teach live classes at Metta Yosemite on Tuesday evenings and Wednesday mornings.
- Consider an online class. Many classes can be found online to fit your schedule. Check out my Zoom groups Tuesday mornings and Thursday evenings.
- Ask your boss. A growing number of companies are taking an interest in meditation. Talk with your employer about setting up a meditation space or offering teacher guided classes to the entire staff.
- Enjoy nature. Head outdoors if the weather is mild. Enjoy the woods, beaches and public gardens while you meditate. Look for a spot where it’s safe to drop your guard for a while.
- Meditate anywhere. Remember that the most important meditation space is in your mind. The more you practice, the easier it will be to calm your thoughts regardless of what is going on around you. Focusing on your breath can help you to reduce tension whether you’re sitting in the dentist’s chair or waiting in line at the motor vehicle department.
Create your own beautiful haven in your home or in your neighborhood. A special meditation space enables you to draw your focus inward and experience greater peace. Don’t worry about how you’re sitting, or how long you meditate for, or holding your hands a certain way. Just carve out a little time each day to sit in practice, where ever you are, and before you know it, you’ve established the meditation habit!
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