Reader, there is more to doing healing work than just how to do it. Knowing how to meditate, journal or do any other technique for self-discovery, is just part of learning more about yourself. Beyond doing your habits, they need a place to be done!
And yes, they can be done anywhere. I have journaled on the side of a creek on a hike, meditated on a plane and created a little space to do my morning routine in hotels when I am traveling.
But nothing beats the space at your house. The little area you create at home to work on yourself.
Your space makes a big difference. Not having a space that allows you to relax and feel secure will impact how much you get from your practices. Having a dedicated area or two will help your routine remain a habit. Sitting in your space tells your mind that it is time to reflect, unwind and open to new possibilities.
Because of this it is worth taking a couple of hours to make sure you are set up for success.
Here are my tips for creating a space that you love:
Any Size Works
The space you set up to do your healing work does not have to be big. I have a chair and side table in my bedroom corner that is my journaling, meditation, and morning coffee spot. Anytime I am stressed, I can close the door, climb in my chair, and almost instantly relax.
By setting aside one specific spot, your mind knows what to do when you sit there. It creates a habit trigger. Habits start because your mind “sees” a trigger and knows what comes next.
Comfort Matters
If you set up a space that is uncomfortable, then you will avoid going there. Or spend minimal time there. Make sure you like what you are sitting on, and then make it feel comfortable to you. You may add blankets, pillows, a lamp with a dimmer switch – whatever makes you feel like you could cozy in and spend lots of time there!
Add Meaningful Items
Besides for any functional items, put into the space things that have special meaning to you. For example, I have a tiny figurine that was given to me as a gift. It is supposed to bring good luck into your life, and I love it. It makes the space that much more nourishing if you can smile at what is in it!
Keep the Space Organized & Cleaned
Keep your space as clean and uncluttered as possible. Clutter can have a negative impact on our mental wellbeing. Research has shown that the extra visual distraction from clutter puts us into cognitive overload and can reduce working memory. Our systems can only handle so much at one time. Plus, it can create feelings such as shame from the mess, or it can bring on depression from the overwhelm. So, when trying to create a healing space, extra mess prevents us from making the progress we want.
Two quick ways to keep your space uncluttered are:
- Use baskets or storage bins to organize like items. These make it easy to keep your things organized and looking nice.
- Do a quick tidy up each day after you are done in the space. If you take just a minute to put things back, fold your blanket and take dishes to the kitchen you will have a clean space the next day when you are ready to work on your healing.
You will also want to keep it energetically cleaned. The more healing work you do there, the more the bad energy can accumulate. About once a week use palo santo or Reiki to cleanse the area.
Outdoor Space
If you have an outdoor space, it is a great place to have a secondary space. Nature has many proven benefits for our mental health. Nature will help calm and heal your emotions. This will help reduce stress while working on more difficult topics.
Studies show you don’t have to be in a forest with nothing around you. Even a tree is enough to help you access the balancing power of nature. Make sure this space is also inviting, add a comfy chair or have a cozy picnic blanket you can grab.
Want the nature benefit but don’t have outdoor space? It has also been shown that you can get nature’s healing with pictures. So, add a picture to your indoor space. For me, opposite my chair is a picture of the ocean. This way I am always looking at it.
Update Your Space
Update your space every so often. Energy can stagnate, even in a calming space. Thus, it is helpful to slightly change the space occasionally. This does not have to be a big change at all. For example, a recent update I did was move the books from the bottom shelf to the top shelf. It might seem small, but it can really make a difference in how the space feels.
Most importantly, remember to make it your own. A place you want to go, sit, and be in!
Below are a couple of articles that will help you make sure that your space is also nurturing and healed itself!
You got this,
Andrea
Recommended Resources
Environmental Self-Care
Is Your Healing Space Healed?
Reiki to clear your space video (This isn't public yet till the end of August, so add it to a playlist or save this email if you want to revisit it.)
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