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Friday, October 17, 2008

A Space of One's Own

There are times when each of us feels that we need some space. 
 Actually, what we need is some time to ourselves and some place to recharge our batteries and renew our spirits. 
 In ancient times, such places were considered sacred and were often found in nature – a grove, a hill or valley, or a mountain.
 

But we don't have to go outdoors to find a sacred space. 
We can create a sacred space right in our own home. 
It doesn't matter how small our living quarters are, even a corner of a room can do nicely, provided it fits the bill, that is to say that it satisfies certain parameters. 
A sacred space is an area where one can sit and meditate, contemplate, or let one's mind wander and relax, ponder, and dream. We can place a small table or a shelf in a corner on which we arrange images or photos or pieces of artwork that hold meaning for us. 
We may incorporate Nature with perhaps some flowers or a small plant, or seashells, or perhaps a crystal. 
Lighting a candle or some incense, or an essential oil diffuser can add to the atmosphere of serenity. 
All we have to do next is to place a comfortable chair there, or even a mat will do. A wind chime or some bells, or playing a cassette or a CD of soothing music can also help us set the scene. 
A space of one's own can help one actualize one's goals in the best possible manner, needless to say that it becomes just the first step where one can afford a frank and intimate soul-searching. In case of a pre-generated conflict, a discussion about possibilities of 'an esteem boost', and of 'who gains and who loses by changing or not changing things', becomes vital. Instead of rolling around in a fog that dangerously confuses one's indifference and passivity against active intolerance, one can genuinely want to be inspired by the good and the great to imagine what is possible – in that place where all life prospers. A conversation, with one's own self, initially rigorous, can eventually be constructive and compassionate in the arena of personal space. A conversation, that is both logical and passionate, thus ensues and releases one from feeling stifled. 

Endnote: Joseph Campbell, the famous American author who wrote about myths and incorporating them into our lives, understood the importance of a need for a sacred space. He says it best, and I quote: "If you have a sacred space and take advantage of it and use it every day, something will happen… Your sacred space is where you can find yourself again and again."

1 comment:

aniruddh said...

The amount of personal space required for any given person is subjective. But the need for 'a space of one's own' is absolute.
No matter where you are or what you do, the need for personal quiet time and space is important. To get away and be alone in silence is therapeutic for the mind and the soul is necessary. Unfortunately, it is hard to find that space in a world that is so busy and loud. Personal meditation, in almost all cultures, is said to create the perfect space for an individual’s well-being and comfort.