by As an Introvert, I find having my own meditation space at home to be invaluable. Having a dedicated space where I can go to unwind, rest my mind and find comfort helps me keep a positive state of mental health.
Scientific evidence proves that meditation helps ease anxiety, relieves stress and symptoms of depression. But even if you’re not a regular meditator, having a meditation space at home could be beneficial to your mental health.
3 Reasons why a meditation space at home will help your mental health
1. A Meditation space at home will make it easier to unwind.
Having a space dedicated to meditation will help you form a relaxation ritual. Just like brushing your teeth before bed signals to your mind that it’s time to start winding down, a relaxation ritual will signal that it’s time for your brain to relax.
Here’s how to make it work for you:
Before entering your meditation space, create a preparation ritual – something like taking off your shoes and jewellery and taking three deep breaths before entering. After a few weeks of performing this ritual, your mind will know that what comes next is permission to relax and let go of the day’s worries.
2. A meditation space at home will help you re-energise
We introverts need quiet time, but because so many of us are working from home, it becomes increasingly challenging to get that alone time we need. Having a meditation space at home can act as a silent messenger to the people you share a home with, that you need to be alone. Having that meditation space is going to help you avoid confronting and possibly offending the people you love.
Here’s how to make it work for you:
Explain to the people you live with why you’ve created your meditation space. Be kind but firm in expressing your need to be uninterrupted when you’re in there.
3. A meditation space at home will give you a feeling of peace and comfort.
We all need a place where we feel safe, particularly in uncertain times. Having a meditation space at home will give you a site that is entirely yours.
Here’s how to make it work for you:
Set no rules about how you have to be in your meditation space. Permit yourself to just ‘be’. Speak kindly to yourself when you’re there and practice self-compassion.
How to set up a meditation space at home
You don’t need a lot of room for a meditation space at home. You could set up your spare room, or if space is limited, try these ideas:
- Set up a corner of your bedroom with cushions that you use exclusively for this purpose.
- Gather together a few candles and some bath oil and make the bath your meditation space. Only use the candles and bath oil when you are meditating, so it sets the time apart as special.
- Buy yourself a unique pillow, or a throw rug and section off half of your bed. The pillow or throw rug becomes your meditation space and acts as the signal to the people around you that you need quiet time.
A few things to consider
As I mentioned earlier, you don’t need to be a seasoned meditator to set up a meditation space at home. There’s no rule that says you have to sit and meditate in your meditation space!
Your meditation could be listening to gentle music. It could be writing in your journal, knitting, drawing or anything that helps you unwind. Your meditation space is a space for you to feel safe, comfortable and at ease.
Create comfort
Ultimately, what you’re trying to create is a space that will give you permission to let go of the days worries. You can’t do that if you’re uncomfortable, so bring whatever you need into your meditation space that will allow you to feel comfortable and relaxed.
Surround yourself with things you love
Comfort is found in the familiar, so cocoon yourself with things you love. Perhaps a candle nearby that reminds you of your Grandma or a few pictures of your family. Or as part of your preparation ritual, you could change into your most favourite t-shirt or jumper.
Try to add a piece of nature. This could be anything that speaks of the natural world, a shell, a flower you picked on the way home, a small crystal. Or you could set up your meditation space next to a window so you could gaze outside and enjoy the natural world.
Create a multi-sensory experience
Use scent to help you relax. Essential oils work well to relieve anxiety and calm the mind. Or you could light incense or spray yourself with a natural perfume that you enjoy. Try to avoid synthetic fragrances, which can alter your hormonal behaviour and instead opt for something soft and natural.
Dim the lights, light a candle or turn on a salt lamp. Take the pressure off your eyes and let your mind relax with ambient lighting.
Create texture for comfort
There’s no better feeling than sinking into a soft pile of cushions and letting all of your body tension go. So pay attention to textures when setting up your meditation space at home. Focus on smooth things close to your skin, and allow the surface beneath you to be supportive but cushioning.
Take care of yourself
It’s crucial now more than ever, to be caring for your mental health. I hope this post encourages you to create your own meditation space at home so you can continue to stay positive and thrive.
