This is a guest post by Prudence Sinclair.
Good morning, lovely you!
We hear so much about people needing safe spaces these days, but in this context, it’s usually a space to be safe from differing values, beliefs and opinions. If some people need that, that’s fine. But I want to talk to you about a different kind of safe space.
The reality is, we ALL need safe spaces; spaces where we can go to be away from the craziness of the world… away from the stress, fear mongering, lies, darkness that seems to be all around us right now. We cannot be truly healthy – not physically, mentally or emotionally – when we are under inordinate amounts of stress. It is important to be able to put our bodies, minds and hearts into a state of complete relaxation so we can heal from dis-ease, depression, and anxiety.
I learned many years ago when I was battling cancer that I needed a space where I could go to facilitate healing. I needed a sanctuary. To this day I make sure, no matter where I live, to create indoor and outdoor spaces that I can go to and relax, meditate, and heal from whatever is ailing me.
I encourage you to create your own healing space that you can go to whenever you need to rest and rejuvenate. It doesn’t have to be a large or grand space, just somewhere that is for you and you alone that makes you feel comfortable and at peace.
Here are some ideas to help you create your own healing space:
Bring Nature Inside
If you live in a part of the country or world that experiences winter or you live in an apartment and don’t have direct access to a backyard or outdoor space, then be sure to bring the outdoors in. Nature is incredibly healing. You may want to always have fresh-cut flowers in your space. It’s also a great idea to bring in found objects like pretty stones, seashells or driftwood from the beach from a favorite vacation.
Indoor potted plants are also a really great thing to add to your space. Not only do plants emit a positive energy, but they filter indoor air pollutants. The Foliage for Clean Air Council recommends Gerbera daisies, Boston ferns, English ivy, chrysanthemums, Areca palms, spider plants and golden pothos. The Council also recommends having two plants for every 100 square feet of space.
Get Sensual
Your space should engage all your senses. Add artwork that inspires you or makes you happy. Have scented candles or incense. You may also want to hang windchimes by an open window or, if you are a musician, have your instruments there to express yourself. And don’t forget to add textures with throw pillows and cozy blankets and furniture.
Paint Your Room a Relaxing Color
White walls don’t do a lot in the way of encouraging relaxation, but certain colors can. Consider painting your room a pretty shade of blue or green, as these colors do tend to relax us. If you want a place to go that makes you instantly happy, then maybe consider a warm golden yellow.
Remove All Clutter
I don’t know about you, but when I am in a cluttered space, I feel anxious and agitated. Be sure to clean out that spare room before setting up your sanctuary. Get rid of those boxes and old board games. Clean off surfaces and make room for candles and decorative pieces that have real meaning for you.
Natural Light and a View
If your space has a window, be sure to take advantage of it and let as much natural light in as possible. This means hang sheer curtains or linen curtains. If your window provides a pretty view, consider placing a comfortable chair near it so you can take advantage of that view.
Block Out Background Noise
Perhaps you share your home with little kids that are always making noise. Or maybe you have loud and obnoxious neighbors. Unwanted sound will NOT help you relax and heal, so it’s important that you find ways to stifle that sound.
I have problematic neighbors on one side, so I’m considering running a combination of a white noise machine as well as my outdoor fountain this summer. The combination of these sounds should drown out the unwanted noise and also provided a relaxing surround sound effect.
Claim Your Space
You’re going through all of this trouble to create a space for yourself to heal, so CLAIM IT. This is YOUR space. Make that clear to loved ones and/or roommates. NO, the kids can’t go in there to play or do homework. No, your wife or husband can’t use that space to do some work from home. This is YOUR sanctuary. If you are battling a physical health or mental health crisis, it is very important for you to have this space to heal.
I really hope you follow my suggestions and create a space for yourself to relax and heal. Your life will feel so much better once you have a sanctuary to escape to!
Prue https://www.prudencesinclair.com