Home is supposed to be a sanctuary, but as soon as we return from work we’re busy doing chores — endless laundry, dealing with bills and paperwork, cooking, washing the dishes and taking care of the kids and pets, just to name a few.
One way to get some rest is to dedicate a space in your home that promotes peace, tranquility and emotional well-being. This area should be free from distractions that might divert your attention, providing a proper environment for meditation, yoga, reading or any relaxing activity.
Interior designer Margaux Brief of CHAI studio at Ward Warehouse offered these easy steps to set up a meditation nook at home:
1. Identify a space
Choose a spot that’s accessible and can be frequented on a daily basis. Consider how the space makes you feel. This will be a place of stillness where you will be alone with your thoughts, so feeling safe and secure with minimal intrusions is important.
2. Establish boundaries
Most folks don’t have an extra room to spare for a meditation space, so it’s important to create boundaries, both physical and spiritual. Hang a curtain or canopy or use a folding screen to define a space and for privacy. A throw rug or floor cushion can further ground the area. Sensory boundaries can include hanging bells or chimes, music, candles or scenting the space with lavender or other essential oils.
3. Cleanse the space
Remove items such as bills, paperwork or anything needing attention. In feng shui, all possessions have a cognitive tie and every time you enter a room, these items begin tugging on you and demanding attention.
4. Dress the space
Once the space is cleared, repopulate it with things that have special meaning, such as fresh flowers and plants, affirmations or personal writings from a journal, statues or altars. Use cushions, pillows or a mat for seating or lying down, or a comfortable chair if being on the floor is too uncomfortable for you.
5. Time to begin
Enjoy your quiet space and begin meditation:
» Do a few stretches to loosen up and move the energy in your body, especially if you will be seated.
» Get comfortable. Meditate while sitting in a lotus position or in a chair, or lying on your back with palms facing up. If seated, maintain good posture.
» Focus on your breath using a simple mantra to prevent your mind from drifting. A common one is "satnam": Think "sat" as you inhale and "nam" as you exhale.
» Make the commitment to meditate on a regular basis. Schedule time in your daily calendar, even if it’s just 10 minutes every other day.
» Take a moment for self-reflection. Tune into your emotions and thoughts. This will help you get settled and promote harmony and balance.
CHAI’s next 10-Minute Meditation Workshop will be at 11 a.m. May 31 at the Ward Warehouse store, 1050 Ala Moana Blvd. Cost: $65. Call 536-4543 or visit www.chai-studio.com
