Create a Serenity Corner
by Samm J. Bogner
We all have moments when stress overcomes us. Releasing stress can be a
challenge that plagues us. My answer to stress, beyond proper nutrition,
exercise, warm bubble baths and keeping a journal is creating a Serenity Corner in my
home.
What is a Serenity Corner? It is a place within the home (or perhaps even a
cubicle at the office) where we invite nature to share our space. The size and
contents may vary somewhat, but keeping a little nature in our living space
or workplace will help to reduce the stress that we experience in our world.
The main features of a Serenity Corner are the elements of nature: air (or
light), water, earth and fire. The key is to use each of these elements in a
safe manner, particularly fire.
For the element of air, several options are available. Think of using things
such as full spectrum lighting (now available as bulbs that fit regular
sockets), air purifiers, and live green plants. These will help condition the air
for clear breathing, brighten the space up and add to the aesthetic
atmosphere. You may wish to use a potpourri displayed in a decorative bowl.
In addition, it may be fun to make a mobile of papier-mâché or origami birds
to hang from the ceiling. If this is not to your liking, consider gathering
feathers from the outdoors (or from pet birds if you have them) and arrange
them as you would a floral arrangement in a vase or bowl. All of these
represent the element of air.
For the element of water, a humidifier works well, but a tabletop fountain is
a visual and auditory joy. Consider making your own. That way, you can add
decorations that express your very own personality and preferences.
Consider using sea shells to enhance the natural effect of the water or if
you have a large enough space to make a small pond, consider placing goldfish
in it. The sound of rippling water is lovely and relaxing.
The element of earth is very easy to arrange. A Zen Garden, Bonsai tree or
other plants round out the combination nicely. Once again, an attractive basket
of potpourri can fill this spot if you are unable to find other suitable
items. You may wish to use a bowl of small gemstones or stones you have found
outdoors to represent this element.
For the element of fire, you may want to take extra precautions. While tea
lights or votive candles in decorative holders are especially nice additions to
a Serenity Corner, it is important to take into consideration any fire codes
for your building. Another option for representing the element of fire is to
use your favorite incense. If neither of these works in your space, an
attractive fiber-optic ornament or lava lamp can be visually pleasing.
You will certainly want to have other things in this corner as space allows.
Perhaps a large floor pillow or easy chair in which to meditate or read would
be to your liking. An assortment of reading material, from artistic to
philosophical, will help distract the mind from daily worries for a short time.
The most important aspect for the Serenity Corner is to invite as much of
nature into your space as you possibly can. Use your imagination! Then spend a
few minutes each day absorbing the beautiful energies that you have created in
your space. It is revitalizing and relaxing.
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