“In solitude, I find my answers.” —Kristen Butler
Wake up. Take a shower. Have breakfast. Work. Read. Work some more. Go home. Eat dinner. Shower. Sleep and repeat. Do your days look like this? Is this monotonous rhythm of life wearing you down?
It certainly was for me, until I realized that the difference is in the details. I had a light-bulb moment one sunny afternoon as I was reading a book on abundance and authentic living.
My main takeaway was the idea of having a sacred space. Though I was a bit reluctant to incorporate such a thing into my lifestyle—I’ve always associated such spaces with monks and priests—I thought I’d give it a try.
I’m now convinced that every individual should have a nook, desk, room, spot or favorite destination where they can occasionally rest, rejuvenate, exhale, meditate, pray, worship and have a quiet moment with their inner self.
How to Get Started on Your Sacred Space
From the onset, I preferred having both an indoor and outdoor sacred space. I first transformed a lovely nook in my bedroom, before identifying an idyllic spot in my garden.
Eventually, I made a personal commitment to carve out some quiet time every day to journey within. I always prefer to do this in the morning and evening. It’s been one month now and I’m enjoying the blessings of devotion and solitude.
Your Sacred Space Should Be Inviting
Your space should not only be divine but also relaxing. It should be a place where you can occasionally hibernate to refocus and consecrate your inner work.
Make it as comfortable and pleasant as possible. Add a cozy chair, soothing music, scented candles or anything else that appeals to your moods and senses. If it’s a destination, make sure it’s calm, serene and picturesque.
Yes, You Can Even Have a Sacred Space at Work
Creating a sacred space at work is most definitely possible (just try a BuddhaBooth!).
If you’re stuck in a cubicle or an open floor plan, get creative. If you can, transform your personal desk into a sacred space or just head outside—a bench under a tree or even a corner of a parking lot can give you the necessary space you crave.
What To Do in Your Sacred Space
Never underestimate the power of rituals. I always start by quieting my mind in meditation, then pray as I sit in silence.
Here are a few tips to begin your inner exploration:
1. Make an inventory of all your blessings and write them down in a gratitude journal.
2. Express your creativity by sticking images of your dreams, plans, goals, ambitions and ideal life on a vision board.
3. Check in with your consciousness by having a conversation with yourself on paper. You can do this by simply writing out your thoughts.
4. Affirm your dreams and prayers by reading out loud your daily affirmations.
Using these tools can help you start to get in touch with the silence within yourself. Once you do, you’ll be amazed at how everything else seems to find its own order.
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