Image by Chrissie White

Stress isn’t something we can completely eliminate from our lives, but we do have the power to manage it. One of the simplest yet effective ways to do so is to create a quiet space totally dedicated to the one person who knows you so well, the one person who has stuck with you through thick and thin and who’ll always be by your side - you!

When you’re confused about personal (or someone else’s!) problems, are feeling like your mind is cluttered and you have never-ending thoughts that don’t resolve anything, you need to stop. Stop the habit-thinking. When you’re quiet, remaining still and are in a meditative state, you achieve clarity. Confusion comes from habitual and mechanical thinking, so when mechanical thought stops it can no longer create confusion.

Have you ever heard of the exam tip which involves dedicating a ‘thinking cap’ for studying? The idea is when you put the hat on your head, it gets you in the right frame of mind for studying because you’ve associated that item with study. The same principle applies for your quiet space. Enter the space and instantly feel rejuvenated, relaxed and clear-headed.

Finding the right spot. This can be inside or outside, a spare room or a corner of a room. Where ever it is, just make sure that you’re drawn to this space and it appeals to you. Your space of tranquility could have windows nearby (sunlight does wonders for me!), but it doesn’t have to. Maybe a dark and cosy area might be best for you. Just make sure this is a space that is respected by everyone else living in your home. (And if you can’t shut out the noise, get the ear-plugs out. Or something cuter - these!)

Create a buffer. If you have the luxury of a spare room then you don’t really need to worry about this. But if you choose a corner of a room you might want to section your space off by adding a folding screen, curtains, door beads, or anything else that will separate your space from the rest of the room.

Dress it up! This is the fun bit. Add some trinkets and pictures that make you feel good, that stir up fond memories, inspire you or let you drift off to far-away places. Maybe an image of a rainforest or beach or some personal photos or even a picture of kittens could do the trick! This is a place to get away from it all, to come home to, to relax, so make it comfy. Maybe you could add a beanbag, or scatter a few cushions on the floor, or use a rocking chair or - my personal favourite - a hammock!
You could add some candles or incense, your favourite books or magazines, or (and this is highly recommended) even a plant or two. Plants have an astounding affect on me. Every morning I eat my breakfast outside and watch the birdies hop around. It’s my Zen moment for the day. Nature really does have a grounding effect, she brings you back down to earth while reminding you of her beauty, synchronicity, and of the fact that there’s something greater than yourself and your problems.

Feed your senses. Colour can make a huge impact on your space. As it’s a space for relaxation, try shades of blue, green, purple or even a creamy colour. You want it to be comfortable so add fabrics that feel soft, like a blanket in which you can snuggle up in. Of course, you can have you space noise-free, or otherwise you might want to play some soothing music, some nature cd’s or add an electric fountain and listen to the water trickle down the rocks. And don’t forget your sense of smell! Aromatherapy works wonders. Here’s a list of particular essential oils which aid relaxation.

When you begin to use your space of peace, you’ll start to create an energy in that particular spot. So the next time you enter your space, your body and mind will automatically re-visit the energy that you left. That’s why it’s also better if you can dedicate the space just for you and your thoughts, no one else. If you spend at least 10 minutes a day in your little sanctuary, I promise you’ll be feeling cool, calm and collected in no time!

Big love & shooting stars,