In order to heal and create healthy adaptations in your nervous system, you first need to feel safe. Creating the right environment is a great starting point. Having a calm, peaceful space in which to practice supports that sense of safety. Creating a sacred space provides a place of solace and respite from the chaotic and unpredictable aspects of life. It can be a source of safety and inspiration when stress or trauma related emotions surface. In these moments, you can bring your awareness to the intentional items in your room to help keep you grounded and connected to the present moment. This space can serve as a reminder of the power that your practice has to restore your felt sense of safety, ease and peace.
Choosing your yoga space:
Find a spot in your home which is quiet and comfortable. It may be a dedicated room, or just quiet space. The key is to find a space where you will not be disturbed. If you have kids, family members, or friends living with you, you may want to ask them not to disturb you during class times, and may even want to put a reminder note on the door.
Preparing your sacred space: Transform your space into your healing sanctuary! Try decorating your space with things that make you feel relaxed and at peace; your favorite painting or photos, flowers, items from nature, or even colors that you love. You could try setting up candles and using essential oils to create a soothing atmosphere. You might include any variety of pictures such as one of yourself as a child so as to remember to send loving support to that part of yourself, or maybe a picture of someone in your life who has been particularly nurturing and loving. You may even choose to create a small altar out of a little table or stool and place items and photos that represent your healing intentions, inspirations, and supports.
Sound Therapy:
You might integrate some sound healing into your practice with the addition of some soothing music, or a small fountain to create the sound of water.
Intentional Beverage: You might make any kind of relaxation or soothing tea or a glass of water to bring to class with you.
Check your Tech:
Find a place for your computer or tablet you will be using for this course where you can easily see the screen, and if you choose, so you can be visible to the teacher from your own camera. You are welcome to keep your camera on or off as works for you. Either way, please test your tech well in advance of class so as to eliminate any potential pre-class stress!
Get your Yoga Gear Ready: Yoga Mat Blanket or two. Bolster or a big pillow or cushion Yoga Block (could be subbed with a big book) Miracle Balls if you have them Strap Chair (optional for balance and joint support)
Creating a sacred space provides a place of solace and respite from the chaotic and unpredictable aspects of life and allows you a source of safety and inspiration you can turn to as stress or trauma related emotions from your body surface. In these moments, you can bring your awareness to the intentional items in your room to help keep you connected to your felt sense of safety as to help you bring a sense of peace and ease into your practice.
There are no rules here! Allow this space to be uniquely yours, and exactly how you want it to be.