How to Create your Own Relaxation Space

Proverbs about tension, stress, and relaxation have been around long before vacation resorts started using them as ad slogans. The most common excuse for not taking a vacation? “I don’t have the time.” The popular excuse for not taking even a few minutes out to meditate? “I don’t have a quiet space.” Studies prove meditation relieves stress, leading to better medical and physical health. So let’s get started by transforming a space in your home into your own meditation room.

Define Your Space

Your meditation space should be a place that's quiet and off-limits to everyone else. When you're in your calming place, kids, spouses, and friends should know better than to bother you. Your space should also be void of distractions and away from noisy and high traffic areas such as the kitchen and living room. If a spare bedroom isn’t available, look for a place you can convert into a meditation space, such as an attic, walk-in closet, patio, or a corner in the basement. “A meditation practice is very personal,” says Sharon Salzburg, author of “Real Love: The Art of Mindful Connection.” “You can do it anywhere — even the subway. But the meditation space you create at home is the most delightful of places.”

Keep your space clear of clutter. Ensure you have rugs that are comfortable to sit on while meditating.  Consider installing an indoor hammock or swinging chair.

No Distractions

Your meditation space should be a phone-free zone. That means no cellphones, tablets, smartwatches, or the like in your calming space. This is a time for you to reflect, ponder, and journal. You don't need distractions while you're recharging your batteries. This space is for meditation only!

Lighting

Your meditation space should be a place where you feel free and comfortable. If you enjoy natural light, choose a space with windows where you can watch the sun come up in the morning, or set at night. If you're more relaxed in dimly lit areas, put up some curtains to darken the room. Finally, add tea light candles or incense for ambiance. 

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy can help promote relaxation. Essential oils are all the rage these days. Try lavender, orange, or peppermint for soothing and calming. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln also recommends adding frankincense to your meditation room. Rosemary also helps to stimulate and energize while promoting mental clarity.

Add Music

There's something soothing about music. Doctors often recommend music to give your happy hormones a boost and drown out background noises while you meditate. Instrumental music or white noise apps that have the sounds of rain and thunder can also revitalize your soul. You don’t need your phone to play music. You can cue up rain and thunder, or birds chirping on a laptop or use a diffuser for white noise.

Connect With Nature

Consider adding elements of nature to your meditation room. Houseplants add a calming effect. Jars of sand or a small indoor water fountain will bring soothing energy. A fountain will also drown out distracting noises, and the sound of water flowing will calm your nerves.   

Take a look around your home. Each room has a purpose: Food is kept in the kitchen, televisions are in the living room or family room, and you shower in the bathroom. Why not create a space dedicated solely to your calmness and peace?

Guest Author:

Sophia Lopez is a home decorator and freelance writer who balances a hectic work schedule with raising four boys and a cocker spaniel.