Creating Your Own Sacred Space
|
In this article written by Natalia Kuna (published in the magazine: "Alive, So Make it Count"), we discuss:
|
|
|
What is a 'Sacred Space'?A sacred space can be many things – a tree, stone, lake, mountain, temple, historical or ancestral site, sacrosanct land, building or structure (whether natural or man-made).
But it can also be a place or ‘space’ where you can be at one with yourself – where you can be in stillness, connect with the inner sacred world within you and commune with the divinity that unites and surrounds us all. |
|
Both private and public sacred spaces have naturally been in existence or created with intent since ancient times as powerful places of contemplation, celebration, dedication, worship, reverence, respect, sacrifice or offering to the divine.
They were a way of honoring or interacting with the greater etheric realms or Gods and deities in a profoundly mystical or ritualistic way. They are still today an integral part of life across many religions and spiritual pathways.
Public examples are sites such as Stonehenge or The Oracle of Delphi, and temples, shrines and churches all over the world. But individuals created their own personal altars in their homes too, according to their own belief system.
|
When when I lived in Japan, I recall seeing mini shrine-like Shinto altars along pathways where people would stop to pray and bring offerings, and often the whole home, if not specific spaces in the home carried a peaceful, zen-like vibe.
It was not only clean, ordered and visually aesthetic, but there was an undeniable energy in the space that was tangibly felt. I recall a time I popped into a non-denominational chapel at a hospital which acted as a sanctuary, a room of faith for those caring or praying over those in medical despair. It was filled with the most intense energy that I could almost physically touch - of accumulated prayer, hope and faith.
It was so highly tangible, I was mesmerised and carried away in absolute heightened reverie. |
|
"I looked in churches, temples and mosques, but I found the Divine within my heart." ~ Rumi
A sacred space is a portal to the Divine. It is like having a mini church or temple in your home.
It is a living, breathing, organic expression symbolizing your spirituality, life cycles and your personal journey.
It takes us from the external world into the internal world, and that is where God/Source/Spirit and the truth of our Soul resides.
It is a living, breathing, organic expression symbolizing your spirituality, life cycles and your personal journey.
It takes us from the external world into the internal world, and that is where God/Source/Spirit and the truth of our Soul resides.
On a personal level, a sacred space can just be a physical room or ‘space’ of some sort in or outside your home; or a thoughtful display / altar that you create either with a specific purpose or intention, or for general aesthetic pleasure.
It can be as big or small, simple or elaborate as you like.
Any way you look at it, it is a way to bring sacredness into your home and spirit, and a way to honor and reclaim your inner world and sacred power.
It can be as big or small, simple or elaborate as you like.
Any way you look at it, it is a way to bring sacredness into your home and spirit, and a way to honor and reclaim your inner world and sacred power.
THE BENEFITS: Why Create a 'Space'?
|
There are many benefits to have a sacred space in your home. Firstly, it is very restorative. It sets the tone for a relaxing, healing atmosphere. Your soul craves a sanctuary from the noise, bustle and over-stimulation of the outside world.
Whether it is a private oasis in a corner of your house, a section of your bookshelf, bedside table, garden, or a whole room dedicated to it; your sacred space is your own personal, intimate dominion where you can re-connect and re-gather all of those deeply buried, fragmented inner parts of yourself. It can become a warm, welcoming refuge where you can sit in stillness and mindfully intuit the inner workings of your mind, heart and spirit – while spiritually and creatively connecting or communing with the Divine. |
|
It does not matter what religion or spiritual beliefs you have, or whether you have any at all; a sacred space is a tranquil place where you feel at peace and relaxed. It restores you and offers a sense of calm.
It can be a visual reminder for your soul’s unquenchable thirst for you to connect with it and listen to its heart beatings, and your giant human need for ‘me time.’ We are in dire need of be-ing rather than do-ing, and a sacred spot provides the platform and energy to do so.
A sacred sanctuary is a platform for contemplation or focus, where you can pray, meditate, dream, admire the beauty and sacredness of, or just ‘be.’ It offers the potential of healing and hope and allows you a space to relax, self reflect or to partake in spiritual thinking or practice.
I like to make a highly intentional, high vibrational space for clarity and healing. An added bonus effect of having a sacred space, is that it boosts the energy of your home. We will explore this further below when we discuss the idea of building up the energy of your space.
How Sacred Space Aligns You with Yourself, Soul & SpiritSacred space enhances quietude and soul connection.
“Quiet the mind, and the soul will speak.” - Ma Jaya Sati Bhagavati The way to connect with Spirit, is to connect with your innermost self. A sacred space allows you to return home, so to speak, and remember who you are at the deepest, core level. The mere act of creating a sacred space aligns us with not only our human self, but also our soul self. It aligns us with God / Source / life force energy, for it is a sacred, creative process much like Creation itself.
It is the genesis of creating something new and meaningful for yourself that paints a colorful spiritual thread of intention and purpose through your life, a simple, sacred way to invite spiritual energies into your home and bring you closer to yourself and God on a daily level as you evolve your personal spirituality, rebirth your authentic callings and amplify your manifestation power. |
|
|
It also encourages you to go about your daily life in a more sacred, aware way - which has the result of calming, healing, restoring and centering you, with the added bonus of allowing you to be a more sacred and open vessel yourself, a portal if you wish, where you have a greater capacity and ability to open your intuitive awareness and commune with the divine.
In turn you allow yourself to receive more direct spirit communication, intuitive downloads and open yourself up to receive more signs and synchronicities. It enhances your intuitive self awareness and advances your spiritual development. |
"Your sacred space is where you can find yourself again and again." - Joseph Campbell
|
At a simple, practical level, by having a sacred space, you are actuating and activating your own personal mind-body-spirit connection. Your space is your sacred retreat where you can sit, soak in and be around on a daily. It not only provides a beautiful atmosphere, but also reminds you by its sheer presence and energy that you are a spirit living in a human body, and to enact your spiritual intentions or practises.
Your sacred space can act as a statement to Spirit, saying: “Here I am. I am open, ready and aware. I acknowledge your presence and my connection with you, and I offer you this space in order to connect with you and my Soul / Higher Self in oneness and harmony. Within this space I seek refuge, knowing, truth and wisdom.” In fact you can use those words or words of your own as a prayer, affirmation or mantra if you like. |
|
The 5 Steps to Create a High Vibe Sacred Space / Altar
|
Below are some steps for creating your own sacred space / altar, with some helpful info and tips.
Please keep in mind that I advocate keeping spirituality simple and making it personal to you, so use your own intuition and discernment, and do what resonates with you. You do not need to follow any specific method or formula. 1. Find the Ideal Spot / Location Try to find a space where you feel relaxed and that won’t be disturbed too much. You might choose a spot in your lounge or bedroom, or wherever you feel you not only have the room, but that is also somewhere you like to be. You could even create more than one. For example, my sacred space is my dining room area, which I use to conduct my spiritual work (readings and energy healing), but I also sometimes have an ever-changing mini altar in my bedroom dresser.
|
If you don’t have a whole room or corner space, here are some other ideas where you can dedicate a little spot:
|
|
2. Prepare, Clear and Protect
|
Is Protection Necessary?Generally speaking, if you have pure intention and heart and are creating a basic altar or space, spiritual protection is not necessary.
However, if you are taking a further step by creating ritual or calling in beings from the spiritual realms, or are feeling vulnerable / going through difficult times, protection is recommended, especially for newbies. There are many psychic protection visualization tools you can use that form protection through energy, as well as protective crystals such as amethyst, black obsidian and tourmaline. |
Clearing Your Sacred SpaceAs you are preparing your space to be clean, clear and high vibrational, remember to stay in the light. Really, it is about approaching things in a mindful way. Ideally, you will want to be energetically clear, centered and grounded before commencing such spiritual work.
It is also important as you set yourself up, to ensure that the energy of your sacred space, as well as your objects, have been cleared. You can do this by first physically cleaning and de-cluttering the area. Then you can use highly effective spiritual tools such as burning sage, palo santo or incense, or using a singing bowl or bell. You could also play some clearing music from You Tube. You could also call upon Archangel Jophiel to assist you in setting up, clearing and beautifying your space. |
|
|
Essentially, methods such as these prepare the space for what you want to create, like a blank canvas ready to be painted upon. place your intention and desires onto it. The space is also more enhanced when it contains you later place in it sacred items that give off a feeling or atmosphere that is serene, personal or meaningful to you.
Performing such acts consciously commands your brain and Spirit / the Universe, that you are not only clearing away negative energy, but also energizing or charging it and providing a platform upon which to usher the desired energy and intentions you wish to create or manifest. You could also bless it in your own way. |
3. Consecrate / Set Your Intention
The word 'consecrate' means to make or declare something sacred or dedicate / devote it to a spiritual purpose. What makes a sacred space special, it the idea of intention and consecration.
To consecrate your sacred space, set your intention what you want to use it for. You may like to reflect on the following questions:
What do I want to use this space for? Is it general, or specific?
How do I want it to look?
How do I want to feel in this space?
To consecrate your sacred space, set your intention what you want to use it for. You may like to reflect on the following questions:
What do I want to use this space for? Is it general, or specific?
How do I want it to look?
How do I want to feel in this space?
|
You can set a specific intention by simply telling Spirit what it is you are intending, with meaning and purpose in your heart. Fill the space up with purposeful intentions and vibrations of love, light and hope.
A great time to begin new intentions with a fresh slate is on the new moon, though this is not necessary. Keep in mind that altars are usually impermanent. You can change your intent and objects as often as you like. See below about creating an altar for a particular purpose. |
Creating & Dedicating a Sacred Space for a Specific Purpose
You can create a sacred space / altar just for your own general desire, for a specific purpose, or both. It can really be for any reason you like, whatever is meaningful to you, and it can change.
Here are some ideas, and it is by no means an exhaustive list:
Here are some ideas, and it is by no means an exhaustive list:
Personal / Life Themes:
- love, romance
- harmony, peace, calm
- mindfulness
- simplicity, minimalism
- family, unity
- world peace & healing
- health, healing, well-being, vitality
- prosperity
- hope, faith
- travel, journeying
- change and transformation
- endings and beginnings
|
Goals, Projects, Work or Study:
|
Creativity, Reading & Writing
Self Development:
- creativity (eg opening up your creativity, art, craft etc)
- writing (eg writing a book, blog)
- books, reading
- journaling
- inspiration
Self Development:
- de-stressing
- forgiveness
- gratitude
- healing
- release and heal from negativity, struggles, situations and concerns
- shadow work
|
Spiritual Development & Practises:
|
|
|
|
Special Occasions:
|
Seasons, Planetary Alignments & Cosmic Energy
You can also set up an altar or sacred space that is deliberately intentional to honor, connect with and activate within yourself the higher energy and offerings of specific cosmic / Divine energy such as:
You can also set up an altar or sacred space that is deliberately intentional to honor, connect with and activate within yourself the higher energy and offerings of specific cosmic / Divine energy such as:
- seasons (spring, summer, autumn, winter)
- solstice & equinox
- general current, changing cosmic energy
- moon cycles/phases (such as the new or full moon, waning or waxing phases, eclipses etc).
- astrology / planetary alignments (such as movement into star signs, conjunctions, stelliums or retrogrades)
- your star sign (to honor and activate qualities)
- Chinese New Year, the animal of the year collectively, or to activate your own Chinese animal sign / energy
- numerology (for example displaying and further activating an angel number you see often such as 444, 9:11 or 11:11, calling in and tuning into the numerological number of the year or a number that is needing to be activated in your life)
4. Choose Your Objects
"Finding objects can be a very sacred, or magical act. It's all about intention and purpose. By truly seeing the true beauty and natural magic of nature and sacred objects, thus experiencing the 'Divine' in everything, and with all your senses heightened; your awareness, connection and understanding of other realms of existence expands." - Natalia Kuna
The items you choose can be personal, sacred or symbolic. Sometimes when you don't have an item that represents a particular purpose you can find a way to express it through metaphor and symbol. For example, placing two twigs across each other could represent a cross, or the theme of faith.
They can be anything you find or that you want to place there or that are mindfully selected to represent the particular purpose / intention of your sacred space.
You can use items you have in your home, that you order/buy, gather from nature or found objects from your walks out and about.
They can be anything you find or that you want to place there or that are mindfully selected to represent the particular purpose / intention of your sacred space.
You can use items you have in your home, that you order/buy, gather from nature or found objects from your walks out and about.
When selecting items for your altar, trust your intuition – go with what appeals to you personally or that suits your specific purpose, theme, vibe or atmosphere you are wanting to create.
Also keep in mind the vibrational potency and meaning of certain objects - for example items such as crystals, flowers, plants, white sage or incense have a high vibration.
Aromatherapy, sprays and color also add a healing potency and power to the space.
Also keep in mind the vibrational potency and meaning of certain objects - for example items such as crystals, flowers, plants, white sage or incense have a high vibration.
Aromatherapy, sprays and color also add a healing potency and power to the space.
Here is one of my more elaborate sacred space displays
|
Here’s a list of ideas to get you going:
Spiritual / Religious Items:
|
- statues of angels, fairies, buddhas - whatever you are drawn to or feel aligned with)
- oracle, angel or tarot cards
- divination tools such as pendulum, runes
- singing bowl
- bell
- chimes
- hanging objects such as dreamcatchers, suncatchers, windchimes
- cross
- religious symbols
- rosary beads, worry beads
- rock lamp, lantern
Personal mementos, ancestral, sentimental items:
- picture frames
- jewelry
- talismans
- lucky charms
- souvenirs
- travel mementos
- cultural, ethnic, exotic items
Décor & Material Items:
Décor & Material Items:
- sacred materials
- table cloths
- special scarves, fabrics
- pillows
- rugs
- vases
- mirrors (to reflect positive energy)
- art, images
- mini water fall or plaque (ahh, the zen feeling)
- feng shui items
Items with Text:
Items with Text:
- journals
- spiritual, inspirational, meaningful books
- bookmarks
- bible, sacred text
- writing tools
- quotes, affirmations, prayers
- vision boards
|
Objects from nature:
Extra Symbolic Altar Items
You can incorporate items that have extra symbolic power and resonance such as Celtic symbols, the tree of knowledge, the Christian cross, sacred geometry shapes such as the flower of life, or the pentacle, which is a five-pointed star in a circle, a powerful symbol which represents the five elements coming together as one. Furthermore if it interests you, think about choosing objects that represent the elements (earth, fire, air, water, and ether) or the directions (north, south, east, west). For instance, you could place a bowl or chalice of fresh water on your altar as a representation of the water element and symbol of the collective unconscious, your emotions, moon cycles or as a deep cleansing element. Alternatively, use tarot cards or images that reflect these themes. |
5. ArrangeArranging your altar can be a sacred act and ceremonial art in itself.
It is about putting your own signature imprint and vibrational energy into the process. Here are some tips to help you get mindful and connected while arranging your display: |
|
|
|
How to Use Your Sacred Space
|
There are many ways you can use your sacred space.
I suggest it is always nice to light a candle - it is also a symbol of light, sacredness and your communication with spirit. Lighting candles not only acts as a that is palpale. symbol of your connection with God / Light source, but it also is light and fire, a symbol of the eternal flame. Remember to visit your sacred space and connect with the Divine often. There is no rule about what you have and do in your space, or how often and long you spend there. It is beneficial to keep the space clean and the energy clear of not only your sacred space, but also your entire home and property. I can always feel the energy difference when I give my sacred area a nice wipe down and also when I rearrange things (even if it is just a little but), as it shakes up the energy and allows it to flow and recalibrate with any new energy, intentions or changes of your own. For energy is not stagnant - it is ever moving. |
Remember that everything is energy and that intention is key. So by creating an area with energy and intent, you are in effect creating an energy space, or even a portal, for whatever it is you are focusing on or inviting into your life or space. You are speaking out to the magnificent Universe. Energy is real and can be built up over time. It can be felt by those who are sensitive to it.
Here are some ideas on what you can do in your specially created space:
Here are some ideas on what you can do in your specially created space:
- meditate
- pray
- sing, chant
- set intentions
- vision cast, manifest
- light a candle, and/or some sage or incense
- diffuse essential oils into the space
- listen to beautiful music
- read soul-nurturing books
- write, journal
- perform a soulful ritual
- just 'be’
Building Up the Energy of Your Sacred Space
"You can make an object or place / area sacred just by your thoughts and intention, through the input of energy and feeling combined. Praying, or adding some form of ritual or sacred act and spending time and energy there, adds to the potency." - Natalia Kuna
The energy of your space will increase as time goes by, and also in correlation to the energy and attention you put on it. Try to visit it daily or as often as possible if you can and incorporate it into a daily spiritual practice. This not only adds power to it, but also empowers you and helps you with your spiritual development and connection. It is a delightfully reciprocating and expanding relationship.
To build up the energy of your space purposefully, you can use high vibrational natural plants and products such as lavender, bay leaves, palo santo and sage, or essential oils like rose, cedarwood, frankincense as well as incense.
Use aromatherapy, as it contains pure essential oils of a high vibrational essence which work directly to calm and relax your nervous system and hence place you in the perfect state of mind and being in which to truly experience your sacred space.
Fresh flowers hold a high energy and raise the vibrations of the space. Not to mention they add a beautiful aroma and are aesthetically pleasing. Plants help absorb negative energy and add positive ions to the atmosphere. Rock lamps do too.
To build up the energy of your space purposefully, you can use high vibrational natural plants and products such as lavender, bay leaves, palo santo and sage, or essential oils like rose, cedarwood, frankincense as well as incense.
Use aromatherapy, as it contains pure essential oils of a high vibrational essence which work directly to calm and relax your nervous system and hence place you in the perfect state of mind and being in which to truly experience your sacred space.
Fresh flowers hold a high energy and raise the vibrations of the space. Not to mention they add a beautiful aroma and are aesthetically pleasing. Plants help absorb negative energy and add positive ions to the atmosphere. Rock lamps do too.
It really makes a massive difference to display crystals (that have been charged and cleared), as they have a truly powerful energy that is palpable and will work to serve you even while you are sleeping. Your sacred objects alone will also hold energy.
Play soft, inspiring music to add to the atmosphere and vibrations. Try relaxing, classical or meditative music, nature sounds, binaural beats, etc also add a higher frequency. You can also choose particular music that suits different purposes - eg: reiki music for healing, angel music for angelic communication or just to absorb beautiful angelic energies and baroque music is said to be great for study, concentration, work, focus or just to feel calm, tranquil and centred.
Your energy syncs into the energy of the sacred space that you have created and it evolves over time. Your sacred space becomes at one with you, and you with it - and that is the beauty of it. For your sacred area can represent a microcosm of the greater macrocosm that is the universe or the Divine.
For me personally, as my sacred space is the area where I conduct psychic readings and energy healing sessions, even though its predominantly online, this added energy of me calling in the angels and connecting spiritually on a more regular basis has added to the frequency and feeling of the room. It is the place where I most actively raise my vibration. The room is by no means perfect, but it is energetically a space I love to be in. Others have commented on that feeling too. It also inspires my other spiritual work such as writing and course development.
Click here for more information about how to perform a candle ritual.
Play soft, inspiring music to add to the atmosphere and vibrations. Try relaxing, classical or meditative music, nature sounds, binaural beats, etc also add a higher frequency. You can also choose particular music that suits different purposes - eg: reiki music for healing, angel music for angelic communication or just to absorb beautiful angelic energies and baroque music is said to be great for study, concentration, work, focus or just to feel calm, tranquil and centred.
Your energy syncs into the energy of the sacred space that you have created and it evolves over time. Your sacred space becomes at one with you, and you with it - and that is the beauty of it. For your sacred area can represent a microcosm of the greater macrocosm that is the universe or the Divine.
For me personally, as my sacred space is the area where I conduct psychic readings and energy healing sessions, even though its predominantly online, this added energy of me calling in the angels and connecting spiritually on a more regular basis has added to the frequency and feeling of the room. It is the place where I most actively raise my vibration. The room is by no means perfect, but it is energetically a space I love to be in. Others have commented on that feeling too. It also inspires my other spiritual work such as writing and course development.
Click here for more information about how to perform a candle ritual.
Tips for Sacred Space while Travelling
A portable travel altar reminds you to check in with your spirit and travel with more peace, calm and mindfulness. You can either make a portable, simplified version of your sacred space by choosing just 2-3 small, well thought-out, non fragile items (if you can squash them in your suitcase).
You can always add some inspiring trinkets or travel mementos as you go along. But it really doesn't have to be that elaborate - sometimes it's enough to just have a small votive candle, tiny stalk of sage and a protective, high vibe crystal. I do this and place them in a small plastic zip bag with a box of matches.
A good tip is to choose a pretty scarf that you will wear that can also double as a table cloth for your altar.
You can always add some inspiring trinkets or travel mementos as you go along. But it really doesn't have to be that elaborate - sometimes it's enough to just have a small votive candle, tiny stalk of sage and a protective, high vibe crystal. I do this and place them in a small plastic zip bag with a box of matches.
A good tip is to choose a pretty scarf that you will wear that can also double as a table cloth for your altar.
Alternatively, you can ad lib and create a mini sacred altar at your holiday destination.
Depending where I am going, I like to include objects that are local or that reflect the exotic location or the theme of inspiration or journeying. Even a travel journal or book can help give off that vibe.
How would you like to create your sacred space?
I hope this article inspires you,
Depending where I am going, I like to include objects that are local or that reflect the exotic location or the theme of inspiration or journeying. Even a travel journal or book can help give off that vibe.
How would you like to create your sacred space?
I hope this article inspires you,
Natalia Kuna is a Psychic Medium & Energy Healer. View SERVICES
|
|
|
