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Homes provide us with a sense of belonging and personal expression. Everything from the colors we use, to our furniture, to the artwork we choose to display on our walls, our homes are a reflection of our personalities. But, sometimes, we need more than just this. We want to feel the presence and feeling of peace and comfort that we can only experience in a church or sacred place. This can be possible with the set up of a personal altar in the home.
What are your favorite spiritual images? What comforts you? What is sacred to you? Ask yourself a few of these questions and begin to mentally imagine your “personal space” or “sacred place” in a corner of your home, and what it would look like and entail.
A Few Starter Ideas
People have been known to make altars in the home consisting of a small wooden table, covered with an altar cloth and possibly some candles or incense; even small religious items scattered about are appropriate. It’s up to you how you decorate your personal sacred space. But, one thing--it must be spiritual. A corner filled with stuffed animals or collectibles does not qualify as a “sacred corner”. You have to bring a level of magic into it. Bibles, outstanding inspirational books, quotes, or writings qualify and can act as a reference for you when you sit down and meditate. Tarot cards fit nicely into the sacred decor, and are usable, in your day, when you want to meditate on certain thoughts and receive guidance.
Make it Your Own
If you prefer to go to your sacred space to think and write, this is a good idea, as well. In this case, you might want to cover your sacred space with journals, pens and a tape recorder for spiritual guidance or any insights you may receive when you’re meditating. Your altar also serves as the perfect place for prayer and automatic writing. If you are going to be praying and writing a lot, make sure that the altar is in a quiet area of the home.
Sacred Need Not Be Expensive
As far as decorating goes, there is no need to go out and spend a lot of money trying to decorate your area. The one staple that you may require is a pretty tablecloth which can either be purchased through a spiritual store or bought at a fabric store to suit your mood. Some typical altar cloths contain stars or constellation images. Cloths are also available in velvety materials of one color (usually deep colors, such as deep blue, burgandy or black).
Use of Crystals
Crystals make a nice touch to a personal altar. There are crystals of all colors and shapes out there, and most have significant purposes and emit special healing energies. There are crystals available with sayings carved into them, which are inspirational and uplifting. Some are used for peace, comfort, and stability, while others promote healing and focus.
Incense and Healing Oils
It might be a good idea to keep a few healing oils on hand in your sacred area. When you are feeling low or in a rut, it’s a great time to go over to your altar and use your healing oils and frangrances for what you need them for, including: headaches, low self esteem, low energy or anger.
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