Stress not only makes us feel emotionally unwell, but it can also affect us physically. Studies have found that stress worsens or increases the risk of obesity, diabetes, depression, and asthma. Creating your own mindful space can be simple yet life-altering when it comes to combating the stresses of daily life. It is a space where you can resonate with your idea of calm and savour the feeling of being fully present in your environment. You can use this space to meditate, practice yoga at home, read your favourite book, or just be calm. In the words of Jim Elliot, “Wherever you are, be all there”. So, let’s create a space you want to be in. But how does one go about making such a calming space? At GetLocal.ie we have put together this simple list to help ease your mind, body, and soul.
Intentions
Only you know what your mindful space will be created for, and to bring this vision to fruition, you will need to set an intention. Setting an intention is very different from setting a goal. What you want the space to look or feel like is a goal. But, an intention is setting a purpose for what you will be doing in this space. For example, if you want to do focus breathwork, you would only need a small space, a comfortable cushion, and possibly a timer. The intention can change over time, so don’t put too much pressure on yourself, remember, this is a calm space, so even though it only exists in your mind at the moment, it is essential to remain calm.
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Wherever you are, be all there
Jim Elliot
Location
Now that you have set an intention for your space, it is time to choose the location. When looking for the perfect place to unwind, keep in mind that you will want a quiet one where you won’t be disturbed and can claim it as absolutely yours. It doesn’t matter if you live in a home, apartment, or just a room in a house. There is somewhere that you can find a space to be mindful. Here are some ideas;
- A quiet corner
- A spare room
- A patio
- A corner of your back garden
Keep it Neat
Have you ever tried to relax in a room or area that needs to be cleaned or is cluttered? Instead of resting, your focus is on organising, or your eyes flutter around the room, analysing everything. Organising and decluttering the area dedicated to your mindfulness practice will ensure that your focus remains where it should be. For example, if you plan on doing yoga in this space, a chair in your area wouldn’t be helpful to you.
Make it Yours
Remember when we said you need to choose a place that is yours? Well, now it’s time to claim that. Artwork, inspiring quotes, or adding some of your favourite colours can all be great ways to personalise your chosen mindful area. If you have chosen this space for reading, be sure to have all your favourites organised and within reach to make the transition from stress to calm easier.
Calm Ambience
Your sense of smell can transport you anywhere, so when setting the ambience of your mindful space, this can be one of your focal points. Do you want to be whisked away to a beautiful beach in your mind? Try adding tranquil sea salt-infused candles to your area or maybe an invigorating mimosa aroma candle or diffuser. Does the imagery of a quiet cabin in the forest give you a deep sense of calm? A woods scented candle could be just what you need to take your mind there. You can also burn sage incense or palo santo wood to cleanse the area and help you drift into your deep feeling of peacefulness. To help keep your zen going use your sense of sound, find a sound loop of the gentle sway of the ocean, the harmonic thrumming of a rainstorm, or the gentle “shhh” of white noise.
Mood lighting is another thing to consider when setting the ambience of calmness in your space; candles, lamps, and lanterns would help you achieve this. If you are in an outdoor area, install lights on the path that leads to your space so you can access it day or night.
Nature
If you have chosen a peaceful place in a corner of your back garden, you won’t have to worry about adding a touch of nature as you are already in it. However, you can block noisy neighbours and silence outside noise by planting a few taller and fuller plants. If you have chosen an inside or patio space, adding natural touches can help you feel more grounded, check out our article on indoor plants for some help choosing which is best for you.
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Comfort
Adding a few cosy sitting cushions for meditation or rugs with extra padding can really bring about a sense of comfort while trying to be mindful. If yoga is the intention you have set for your space, yoga mats work well as they can easily be rolled up and put away when not in use, but if you get a comfortable enough rug, you can use that too. The last thing you need is for your knees to yell at you during cat pose and your bum to hurt while slipping into a lovely meditation.
Once you have decided what you need for your mindful space, keep GetLocal in mind. It is easy with GetLocal.ie. Search for your item, add your location to see what is available nearby, and viola! You are on your way to calm and relaxation.
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