For highly sensitive people, cultivating a serene and calming environment is crucial to finding balance in today's busy world. Establishing a dedicated at-home yoga practice space can be a wonderful way to add extra nourishment in your home. I have had students that struggled to practice at home find ease in a daily routine after creating a soothing space for themselves, it can make all the difference.
This blog will guide you through the steps of creating a personalized yoga sanctuary tailored to your needs as an HSP.
1. Choose the Right Space:
Selecting the perfect spot for your at-home yoga practice is the first step. Look for a quiet and clutter-free area where you can most easily shut out external stimuli. Consider a corner of your bedroom, a spare room, or even a cozy nook in your living room. Ideally the space will have natural light during the day for an uplifting atmosphere.
2. Declutter and Simplify:
As Highly sensitive people, we thrive in uncluttered environments, as clutter can be extremely overstimulating for our sensitive nervous systems. Keep your practice space clean and organized and free from distractions that could disrupt your practice. Consider a storage solution like shelves, baskets, or storage boxes to keep your yoga props and accessories neatly tucked away.
3. Choose Soothing Colors:
Color has a significant impact on our mood and energy. Choose a space in your home with calming and soothing colors like soft blues, gentle greens, or neutrals to create a tranquil ambiance. Avoid loud or overly bright colors that might trigger sensory overload unless of course you happen love them. Always go with what feels good to you. I love white, bright spaces, so my yoga space has all white walls and lots of light.
4. Personalize the Space:
Make your yoga space uniquely yours by adding personal touches. Integrate decor that promotes mindfulness and serenity. Hang up artwork that resonates with you, display meaningful objects, or place candles to add the comfort of the space. These elements can help you connect with your space and feel more at ease. In my space I have plants, a buddha and some crystals to help me feel supported and relaxed.
5. Comfortable Flooring:
Invest in a good-quality yoga mat that provides ample cushioning and support. (Make sure it’s a yoga mat, and not one of those extra cushy exercise mats, as those are not supportive enough for poses when you are balancing on your hands or feet.)
If you have hardwood or tile floors, consider adding a plush rug to enhance comfort during your practice. The sensation of a comfortable surface beneath you can make a significant difference in how we feel in our practice. I always notice myself wanting to get on the ground and stretch in rooms with cozy looking floors.
6. Ambient Lighting:
One of the first things I did to update my yoga space when I moved in was to remove the florescent lighting. Harsh lighting can be unsettling for sensitive souls. If you can, choose soft and diffused lighting options like floor lamps with warm-toned bulbs, fairy lights, or Himalayan salt lamps. These gentle sources of light can create a soothing atmosphere that encourages relaxation.
7. Noise Control:
Create a quiet oasis by minimizing external noises. If your living environment is noisy, you can use noise-cancelling headphones or play soft, ambient music to drown out distractions. Calming nature sounds can enhance your practice as well. You might even consider using a white noise machine or a fan to help minimize outside sound.
8. Incorporate Natural Elements:
Bringing elements of nature indoors can have a grounding effect. Place a potted plant or a vase of fresh flowers in your yoga space. The presence of nature can foster a deeper connection to the present moment during your practice.
Creating a nurturing at-home yoga practice space for yourself is about crafting an environment that aligns with your needs and preferences. By curating a space that supports your well-being and provides a haven for self-discovery, you're fostering a sanctuary where you can find solace, connection, and healing. This can be the difference between practicing at home occasionally, and finding a routine that nourishes your body, mind and spirit daily (or often). Embrace the journey of creating this space as an act of self-love and empowerment and remember that creating the space is the first step. You can always add more to it later, so don’t let perfectionism holding you back form starting.
Ready to start your home yoga practice? Check out my free Youtube video, 20-minute Gentle Yoga to Calm Overstimulation for Highly Sensitive People or start your 7-day free trial of my Yoga for the Sensitive Soul Monthly Membership.
With love and sensitivity,
Christie
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