Create A Sanctuary In Your Home

If you’ve been keeping up with the pictures from my Bali retreat, you know that it was a completely magical experience. From mind-blowing events such as flying yoga and exploring the rice fields to mindfully watching the sunset and taking daily barefoot walks with my toes in the grass, it was a transformational two weeks.

As I return back to Park City, I’m reminded of a lesson I learned years ago — your home should be a refuge from tension and care. How many of us can say that’s the case? Often, we endure the stress of a chaotic home environment just because we’ve grown used to it. We forget that we’re free to create any kind of surroundings we can imagine. I’m not talking about an expensive kitchen remodel or add-on. I’m talking about the little things you can do to make your environment more soothing and harmonious.

For me, the quest for serenity has meant turning off electronics two hours before bedtime, and not answering phones during dinner. It’s meant more family time. Reading books instead of mindlessly binge-watching TV. Once you start brainstorming, there are literally hundreds of possibilities.

Some of your possibilities might involve changes in the physical environment, while others might address lifestyle habits or family interactions. Small changes made to create a true refuge add up to less stress.

How many things can you think of? Make a list of ways you can make your home a more comfortable, peaceful, and nurturing place.

 Here are a few ideas to get you going, with space to start adding your own: 

  • Plant a small area in your yard with flowers and fragrant herbs. Add a chair so you can sit and unwind for a few moments every day.
  • Before your morning shower, enjoy a nature walk barefoot in the grass (I like to call this “grounding”). As silly as it sounds, studies have shown the grounding has remarkable health advantages, such as increasing antioxidants, reducing inflammation, and improving sleep.
  • Create a space to meditate, contemplate, read, and relax.
  • Separate business activities from personal day-to-day living
  • Download a new song to listen to while you’re cooking (My new favorite is “Glory” by John Legend)
  • Light a scented candle (my go-to is Votivo Red Currant)

Just a few simple tricks like these will make your home a soothing sanctuary, and fill your being with warmth, love and joy to sustain your energy throughout the week.

Here’s to your health and happiness!