The material presented
here is not Al-Anon Conference Approved Literature. It is a method
to exchange
information, ideas, feelings, problems and solutions on a personal
level.
This increasingly chaotic world is making us sick,,,add an alcoholic or an addict to our lives and it is increased 10 fold or even 100.Our hurried and hassle-filled lifestyles are increasing our risk for strokes, heart attacks and mental illnesses such as depression.
We could all use a sacred place to restore some balance to our lives, to slow down mentally, physically and emotionally. Creating such a sanctuary doesnt have to be difficult, expensive or time consuming.
Make it a calm space where one can sit quietly and empty our minds , where we can be still and allow inspiration to come from that place of stillness and emptiness.
If your sacred space is a corner of a room, you'll need to find some physical or psycological division. There are several possibilities, you could hang a curtain, or use a pleasant defining aroma,, like a scented candle.Or soothing music. This sends a signal to my soul that this space, even tho its a corner is different fromt he rest of the room. A physical retreat such as a garden can be just what the doctor ordered to keep you in healthy body and soul, or a long hot bath, whatever it is, we need that time for "our" healing.
Your special space should also be comfortable, especially if you will be spending more than just a few minutes in it,,a warm blanket , some nice toss cushions, pictures, or whatever you may enjoy, as the sacred retreat should be filled with items you find inspiring and comforting. (Some alanon literature, daily readers etc)
Just remember when designing your sacred place,,,,that it is "your" space, it should be pleasant and relaxing for "you"-------dont worry about anyone else.
Make this place your own,be sure to include things that reflect who you are. But these items should also have a calming effect. If you are religious, you might want to include symbols that reflect your faith. You could also put in a photograph or painting of a nature scene that calms you. Many people find water relaxing, so a portable gurgling fountain, not only does it create a soothing sound, but the refreshing, relaxing image of water might also wash away your troubles, even for the shortest moment. We in alanon know how important time to ourselves is....................
I hope in someway this will inspire some of you to take the time out and take care of yourselves, take the time out of our insane/difficult times we endure on a daily basis when affected by anothers addiction,,to do something "nice" for ourselves. and create that "Sacred Place",,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,gardengal
thank you gardengal for that inspiring message! I'm thinking about my sacred place right now..just need a beanbag and some candles!!..The alanon literature too..it will be a great little place for me to really focus on me..thanks again
What an inspiring post! Thanks so much for the information. I did learn to do this from my psychologist for times when I feel unsafe. I remember walking through my house looking for a spot where I did feel safe and comfortable. But, I have forgotten about making the space I chose special such as the aroma, sound, etc. So thanks for sharing this with us. cdb
Thank you gg... These are excellent suggestions. Also, for me, I need to enclose my sacred place with sacred time. I have neglected to take sacred time to be there.
My sacred place… I carry it wherever that I go… I am near totally there or more partially there, according to level of fear that I allow to interfere, almost every moment of the day… that is my heart. I can be driving down the freeway… and my thoughts will fly within my heart and I will have a discussion with my God.
