Designing Personal Areas that Nurture the Spiritual Mind
DEAR readers, in last week’s column, we immersed ourselves in the essence of connecting with nature and how these natural settings can invigorate our spiritual senses.
We discovered that moments spent outdoors not only ground us but also foster a profound sense of peace.
But as we venture further into our exploration of spirituality, we must now turn our attention to another key element of our spiritual journey: the spaces we occupy.
When we speak of ‘space’, we often think of it in temporary, physical terms – rooms, buildings, and the vast outdoors.
But how do these spaces influence our inner life?
What role does space play in our connection to the divine and our own inner sacredness?
As we navigate through our daily lives, we may find ourselves yearning for more than mere physical room; we seek the essence of what space truly means.
The Meaning of Space
At its most fundamental level, space represents the opportunity to breathe, reflect, move, nay, move freely as we wish.
Whether we are confined within four walls or surrounded by nature, the spaces we navigate deeply resonate within our spiritual experiences.
However, space can be a double-edged sword. Yes, it can be a sanctuary, but it can also feel isolating or overwhelming.
For instance, consider a bustling city: surrounded by noise, activity, and constant movement. It can feel stifling rather than liberating.
In contrast, a quiet room filled with soft light and few distractions can inspire profound reflection.
Hence, the question arises: Is space inherently helpful?
The answer is yes and no.
Space is not merely defined by its physical characteristics; it’s about how we interact with and perceive it.
A chaotic environment may inhibit spiritual connection, while an uncluttered, soothing one may enhance it.
Our personal experiences shape our understanding of space. Thus, in our quest for inner peace, the ‘type’ of space we cultivate becomes essential.
The Need for Sacred Space
Perhaps the most necessary form of space we need is what I call a ‘sacred space’.
This concept extends beyond the physical space. It embodies an atmosphere meant for spiritual connection and introspection.
A sacred space can have a physical component – like a room set aside for meditation, prayer, or contemplation – but it also encompasses the invisible realms of our inner selves.
Creating such sanctuaries in our lives is crucial. They provide a refuge from the chaos of everyday life and allow us to connect with God, the universe, the deep inside us, and our essence.
Sacred spaces are not bound by geography. Whether in our homes, workplaces, or even virtual realms, it is possible to create a sanctuary for the soul.
Creating Sacred Spaces
How can we design such personal spaces that cater to our spiritual senses? Here are some principles:
- Simplicity:
Keep it uncluttered. Removing distractions allows for deeper reflection. - Meaningful Decor:
Surround yourself with items that inspire you like books, art, or mementos that resonate with your spiritual journey. - Natural Elements:
Incorporate elements from nature. Plants, stones, or even sounds of nature can enhance tranquility. - Lights and Colors:
Use soft lighting and calming colors to create a peaceful atmosphere. Warm tones or soft blues can be incredibly soothing. - Comfort:
Ensure the space invites you to linger.
A comfortable chair or meditation mat can enhance your experience
According to a study published in the journal ‘Environment and Behavior’, people who create personalised spaces report higher levels of well-being and reduced stress.
This reflects what many of us intuitively know: when we design spaces that speak to our souls, we cultivate a nurturing environment.
In my own life, I’ve established sacred spaces in various forms. I have a dedicated area in my office where I pray, lined with photos of loved ones and calming art.
My bedroom is another sanctuary, filled with soft lighting and gentle sounds that foster restful meditation.
Even my virtual space – where I engage with mindfulness apps or community forums – has become part of my sacred journey. Wanna mention your spot in your home? Where the fish is?
Creating these spaces has transformed my capacity for reflection and enhanced my connection with the divine. It is within these serene environments that I experience profound clarity and peace.
Examples of Inspiration
Throughout history, many great leaders and saints understood the value of sacred spaces. The value of sacred space is not just a personal affair.
Many global leaders and spiritual figures have acknowledged its importance in their own lives. For instance:
Mother Teresa
She often retreated to the convent’s chapel and to her room for prayer and reflection amidst her busy ministry, creating a personal sanctuary that grounded her passion for serving others.
Mahatma Gandhi
He regularly sought out secluded spaces to reflect on his principles and meditations, emphasizing the importance of peace within before affecting change outside.
Dalai Lama
His dedication to practice meditation highlights the significance of creating spaces — both external and internal — where peace and connection flourish.
Thomas Merton
As a Trappist monk and writer, Merton often emphasized the importance of solitude and place for personal reflection in his writings. His sacred space in the monastery allowed him to foster a deeper connection with God and the world around him.
St Teresa of Avila
St Teresa of Avila’s writings reflect her deep connection to the inner sanctum of her being, illustrating the importance of internal sacred spaces.
The Process of Designing Your Sacred Space
- Identify Your Intent
What do you wish to achieve in your sacred space? Clarity, peace, gratitude, purpose, direction? - Choose the Location
Determine where in your home or in your life you feel most at ease. - Set Boundaries
Designate your sacred space by committing to keep it exclusive for spiritual period or practice. - Personalize It
Add elements and decorations that resonate with your heart and mind. - Mindful Use
Dedicate time regularly to engage with your sacred space, allowing it to transform you gradually.
As I share these thoughts with you, my hope is to inspire you to create your own sacred spaces.
In a world that often feels hurried and chaotic, nurturing our spiritual connection through these sanctuaries can enhance our lives profoundly.
As you construct these personal realms, remember to invite stillness and openness, allowing your spirit to flourish.
As we embark on this journey of creating sacred spaces, let us keep this biblical verse close to our hearts, reminding us of the profound connection between space and our spiritual lives:
“Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10)
This verse invites us to trust in the divine presence while acknowledging the power of stillness and space in our spiritual journey.
May you find spaces that nourish your soul and offer you respite along your path to spiritual enlightenment.
In closing, dear readers, I leave you with this biblical verse: “But you, when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father, who sees in secret, will reward you” (Matthew 6:6).
May you find the patience to cultivate your sacred spaces, nurturing the spirit within and connecting more deeply with the divine.
Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue this journey with you. Next week, we will explore ‘Seeing with the Heart’, where we will discuss how emotional intelligence can deepen our spiritual connections and empathy.
Together, we’ll uncover ways to blend our inner emotional landscape with our spiritual senses, creating even more profound connections in our lives.
I can’t wait to share and learn this insightful topic with you! May we have a grace-filled week ahead!
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of Sarawak Tribune. The writer can be reached at lawleepoh@gmail.com.
