5 WAYS TO CREATE A HOME MEDITATION PRACTICE
Solitary or group meditation? Each setting has powerful benefits to offer and are worth trying one-at-a-time or as a combination.
There are many yoga and meditation centers that host fantastic classes where you can learn and practice many different meditation techniques. Group meditation sessions possess a unique ability to create a palpable room energy and sense of community spirit. While some practitioners may revel in a group class, others may find the presence of others and their accompanying noises distracting and end up unable to fully relax into the experience.
Creating a home meditation space provides the opportunity to establish and grow our own personal practice. The numerous benefits of creating a personal space include consistency, personalization and freedom.
Consistency is key and proximity favors consistency. The fact that your meditation space is always available, and you don’t have to wait for a class or drive anywhere facilitates the necessary consistency to establish the foundation of a personal practice. Having your own space means can you infuse the décor with your personality, creating a welcoming refuge that you are happy to return to time and again. While group classes are extremely beneficial, the meditation topic is predetermined by the yoga or meditation teacher. A home practice gives you the freedom the tailor each session towards your own personal intentions and goals. While there are no hard and fast rules to meditation, there are some techniques to try that can aide in your journey.
5 ways to create a home meditation practice:
- FIND A SPACE– the corner of a room will suffice; preferably somewhere quiet with minimal distractions if you are new to meditation;
- PERSONALIZE IT! – create an alter using items that have personal significance such as photos, Buddha or deity statues, ornaments, candles, gemstones, flowers, blankets…. anything that makes the space uniquely yours;
- SET THE MOOD – perhaps soft music, candles or an essential oil diffuser; something to create a relaxing atmosphere. These tools can help in the early stages of a meditation practice but shouldn’t become a necessity. Our world is already noisy and chaotic enough; meditation is the practice of learning to sit comfortably in the quiet, observing and training our mind;
- GET COMFORTABLE – use a meditation cushion or a chair. Sitting cross-legged on the floor is rarely immediately comfortable, especially if you are just starting out, so using a cushion can ease discomfort. Yoga Nidra is practiced lying down but seated meditation is the preferred method for all other types of meditation because there is a tendency to fall asleep while lying down;
- FIND A FOCAL POINT – a focal point can be in the form of a Mala (prayer beads) or the breath, paying attention to each inhale and exhale. Use Mala beads to count the breath or recitations of a chosen mantra.
Try these out and see what works. Happy Meditation!
Namaste
