Creating A Zen Space
The word “zen” comes from Japanese Buddhist traditions and is an emphasis on meditation and intuition. This can be interpreted in so many different ways, especially when we think of self-care. Self-care can be so many different things to all of us as well, especially looking within yourself and reflecting on your needs.
One of the most important aspects of self-care is having a space to practice it. Of course, you can practice self-care without having a dedicated space; think baths, walks in nature, yoga, exercise, cooking with family, going for a spa treatment; but it can also be extremely special to have a space in which to practice.
Having a space to call your own means that you will be more likely to use it and be more consistent with your self-care and thus live a more zen lifestyle.”
- Katie Titterton, Zest Wellness Wellness Coordinator
Having a space to call your own means that you will be more likely to use it and be more consistent with your self-care and thus live a more zen lifestyle. So how do you go about creating a space?
Utilize your senses.
When we connect to our senses we also connect to ourselves on a deeper level. We have five main senses: taste, touch, smell, sound, and sight. Taste may not be a sense that you can utilize in your space per se, but you could accompany the time in your space with soothing beverages like herbal teas or infused waters. Use soft fabrics and choose furniture pieces that you enjoy and that are relaxing. For smell, you can have scented candles, incense, essential oils, fresh flowers, and even grow herbs or flowers. Keep your space quiet, perhaps only using soft music or none at all. Sometimes the rustling of leaves in the breeze is enough! Lastly, sight, make your space aesthetically pleasing to the eye. If your space is beautiful to you, then you will be happier to spend your time there.
Bring in nature.
If you have a green thumb, add some plants to your space! Plants help to clean the air, remove toxins, and they look great. If you have a small space you can add a cluster of indoor plants in pots, or if you have a larger space you can invest in bigger plants or a high impact plant wall. You can even forage for plants outdoors that you can grow and cultivate in glass vases with water only (no soil!). Foraging for plants and flowers also gives you the added bonus of movement and connects you with your community and surroundings.
Keep it clean.
No, seriously. A clean space means a clear mind. Take some extra time to keep your space clean and organized after each use, so that when the moment for self-care strikes all you have to do is enjoy. Minimize distractions, and don’t put technology in your zen space!
Make it personal.
What do you want a zen space for? Is it for yoga practice, meditation, a moment away from kids and family? Let your space reflect your needs. And as you continue to use your space, continue to grow it by adding pieces that support your journey.
Be realistic.
You may not have space to dedicate to self-care and zen moments all the time. That is life! If your zen space looks like a really great bath once a month, then you are still taking care of your mind and body.
Got a family?
If you are living in a household with a spouse, children, or parents, I would approach this one of two ways. Either create a small space just for you, a nook in the garden, a favorite armchair, an outdoor space that you can roll out your yoga mat. Or you can work together as a family to have a space that you all can use together to be more mindful, present, and connected.
