How To Create An Outdoor Shrine

If you have an option, you will probably benefit from finding a place where privacy can be arranged. On spacious land, you may wish to find a place concealed by trees, bushes, or partially surrounded by a fence. On a porch or balcony, it may be more difficult, but can be achieved. On a porch, hang bamboo shades that can be drawn when desired. Use flower pots to stake tall, lightweight trellises, then plant a fast-growing creeping vine. You can purchase or make a folding screen for a barrier that can be put up when desired, then removed and stored away. Keep the outside fairly plain so that it doesn't draw attention, but decorate the side that faces you to suit your personal tastes and beliefs. Try painting the inner side of it (the side facing you) with pictures that move your soul, religious symbols you hold dear, or at least colors that make you feel at peace. It doesn't have to be a masterpiece; you're likely the only one who will see it. All that matters is that it promotes a sense of harmony or reverence within you.

You may wish to erect a permanent altar in your shrine, or a space where one can be erected whenever you visit it. An altar is simply a place to keep anything you feel is sacred, upon which you can focus when you pray or meditate. A small table or snack tray, flat stone, or even a tree trunk will suffice. Such items that adorn it can be statuary, artifacts, pictures, candles (be careful where candles are placed and never leave them burning unattended), flowers or plants, or any other item with which you would feel happy. If you like incense, get an incense burner and place it on a heat-proof plate or stone.You may also like to place a libation bowl upon your altar for offerings to your higher power, such as cut flowers, fresh fruits, dried herbs, honey, or little gifts and trinkets you find in nature.

You may wish to decorate your shrine, but be careful- clutter is not very conducive to peace. A few plants, some lovely stones, or a lantern or two for night use will probably suffice. The sound of running water can help the consciousness relax and flow, so perhaps you would like to include a small, table-top fountain. Whatever you choose to put in your shrine, remember to keep it simple.

Finally, you'll want a place where you can be comfortable. Even if you are usually happy with the ground, or a patch of grass, you may want to keep something around that you can use when it rains. On a porch or balcony, you can always stash a folding lawn chair near by, or keep a pillow handy. A blanket you can take with you when you use your shrine will also suffice. Make a liner out of an old shower curtain or table cloth to go beneath the blanket, in case the ground is wet. If your shrine is out on your land in a natural area, you may consider getting a cut log to use as a little bench, or a large stone. Whatever you use, make sure it is stable for safety, and makes you comfortable so you can focus on your worship.

There are no rules on what you should do at your shrine. You may simply wish to go there for a moment of solitude, where you can commune with nature or process your own thoughts, read inspirational poetry or study religious text. You can also go there to offer prayers or libations in honor of your deity or nature spirits. Perhaps you would like to conduct full-blown, ceremonial rituals under the light of the full moon. Whatever uses you may deem appropriate for your shrine, you will no doubt find comfort in having a private sacred space that reflects the spiritual side of yourself.