How often do you take time out of your busy schedule to relax and reflect by yourself? Dedicating a few minutes or an hour every day to meditation or prayer can be important for your emotional and physical health. If you truly want to reap the benefits consider creating a sacred space within your home.

Due to numerous health benefits, more Americans are meditating and creating sacred spaces in their homes. Many hospitals are even adding interfaith meditation rooms for “patients, visitors, and staff.” Research has shown that meditating can affect “parts of the brain associated with memory, sense of self, empathy and stress.” Meditation also has physical benefits like lowering blood pressure and strengthening your immune system.

Here are a few tips on creating a sacred space at home

Before creating your own sacred space, know exactly what you want. Do you need a small corner for morning worship? Would you prefer a larger space for afternoon yoga sessions? Once you know your needs you can find the perfect spot in your home like a guest bedroom, a corner in your bedroom, or a spot in the basement or attic. An important aspect of this space will be privacy so consider a curtain or screen to separate your space.

Once you have designated your own meditation area, consider these two things: organization and comfort. Keep the area as simple as possible, this allows for a most peaceful atmosphere and keeps you from being distracted. Make sure everything is clean and dust free. Consider adding a soft yoga mat, comfy cushions, or a cozy chair (preferably one that you can stash away if your space is limited).

As for accessories, try to keep your space simple. Consider having special music playing during your meditation sessions (you can find CDs at the Mindful Living Market). Sacred objects may be important to your space, whether they’re statues, religious tools (the Bibles, the Qu’ran, etc…) or pictures. Also experiment with lighting (natural or candlelight) and calm colors (blue or green). Lastly, plants and flowers in your space can also be relaxing.