Creating your own Zen space at home

ZEN TIP TUESDAY #14

For Zen Tip Tuesday #14 it’s wonderful to welcome Sue Loncaric, a fellow mid-life Brisbane blogger who I’ve met in person several times now.  Sue is such a genuinely kind and lovely person who blogs over at Sizzling Towards 60 and Beyond.  Sue writes today about how we can create our own Zen space at home.  Sounds wonderful doesn’t it?  Enjoy the read, and of course you can find out more about Sue in her Bio at the end of this post.

For anyone joining us for ZTT Link-Up #012 – welcome and I look forward to reading your post!

Zen is a word that many of us think we know the meaning of, but as I’ve been reading Min’s Zen Tip Tuesday posts, I realise that there is more to this three-letter word. I have learned from previous guests, that Zen can mean different things to each of us. There are so many ways we can bring Zen into our lives and I’m delighted to be part of Min’s #ZTT series and contribute my thoughts.

I was recently listening to ‘Your Dream Life Podcast’ presented by Kikki K., the founder of the Kikki K Inspirational Stationery, Journals, Books and Gifts.  Her Guest, Dr Hazel Wallace, The Food Medic, discussed ‘Habits, Positive Rituals & Believing Anything is Possible’.  During the interview Dr Wallace explained the importance of relaxation and including a Zen corner or space in your home. 

How often do you come home and just want to shut the door on the world and escape to your own special place? 

I love being at home. Yes, I enjoy socialising with family and friends, but there is nothing like coming home or spending the day at home in my own space, relaxing. 

Inspiration Flow Days, where there is no plan and we allow ourselves to just go with the flow for the day can re-energise our mind, body and spirit.

The Danes have a lifestyle version similar to creating a Zen feeling, which they call ‘Hygge’. Pronounced ‘hoo-ga’, it is all about creating a feeling of coziness, contentment and well-being by enjoying the simple things in life and at home. 

The word is derived from the Norwegian word for ‘well-being’ and has been a part of Danish culture since the 1800’s.  Whilst this is especially enjoyable for them during cold winters, you can create this feeling year-round.

Hygge, Zen, Comfort, Peace, Calm, Relaxation, they all mean the same thing and by creating a special place in your home, just for you, your physical, mental and spiritual well-being will be enriched.  You will reduce stress and anxiety and that has to be a positive outcome for good health.

Ideas for creating your own Zen space at home

I started exploring what a Zen space was and ideas for what should be included. The most important thing to remember is that when you enter your Zen space there should be a feeling of calm. As you let go of your breath you are letting go of the stresses of the day.

Your Zen space doesn’t have to take up much room, although if you are lucky to have a spare room you can really create your own special sanctuary. 

A Zen space should cater for all five senses – Sight, Sound, Smell, Taste and Touch. It should be a visually beautiful space that is inviting and evokes a sense of calm.

• Arrange a comfy chair, cushions or bean bag for seating
• Create softness with your favourite Candles and soft lighting
• Use a Diffuser and your favourite essential oils to fill your space with your favourite calming fragrance such as Ylang Ylang
• Calming and soothing music – Make your own relaxing playlist but make sure speakers are hidden (you will read why a little further down in this article).
• Books – include not only fiction but your favourite inspirational books
• Display a favourite inspirational quote or calming image
• Include a journal to record your thoughts and reflections
• Throws that are soft and provide warmth and comfort in the cooler months
• Plants or Flowers – Studies have shown that indoor plants can reduce feelings of stress
• Your favourite tea or infused water – indulge yourself by using your favourite china tea set
• Yoga mat if you have the space for meditation
• Crystals
• Smooth stones for touch
• A ‘Do Not Disturb’ Sign – this is your retreat, this is your special time and place

What to leave out of your Zen space

• Electronic devices such as laptops, your smart phone, or e-readers. Hide your music device and speakers from view – Switch off from the world and switch on to your inner self.
• Avoid Loud noise or bright lights
• Clutter – Remove any clutter from your space and it will also help you to remove the clutter from your mind.
• Other people – this is your personal space for you to unwind, meditate if you wish, reflect, journal, practice yoga, read a book or just ‘be’.

“Create a space in your life to relax, re-energize, and reconnect with your sacred inner being.” ~ Melanie Moushigian Koulouris

What would you include in your Zen space? 

SUE LONCARIC

Sue Loncaric is an Over 50 lifestyle blogger, life coach for women, and the founder of Sizzling Towards Sixty & Beyond.  Passionate about living a full and active life in Midlife & Beyond, her mission is to encourage and inspire women Over 50 to live a fit, fabulous, healthier and happier lifestyle by guiding them to realise their full potential.

Here’s where you can connect with Sue:  Blog  |  Facebook  |  Twitter  |  Pinterest  |  Instagram

ZTT LINK-UP #012