Home Sanctuary

Find peace and calm in your own backyard

Your home should be your sanctuary, a place where you can retreat from the world to recharge your batteries. In recent weeks, however, our homes have become a more permanent fixture as we fight to contain the spread of coronavirus.

In some homes, where all family members are contained together, it can be challenging to find a little space to call your own, a place where you can take a moment to think, reflect, take a breath and prepare to face the world again.

But there are simple ways to create a cozy sanctuary in your home with little expense and little effort.

Be a creature of comfort

Find a corner in your home and make it as comfortable as you can – scatter a few cushions and a soft throw blanket and light your favourite candle. Then make a commitment to spend just 30 minutes in your little corner each day (longer if you can!)

This can be your special place to perhaps read a good book with a hot cup of herbal tea; paint your toenails (and let them dry!); meditate; spend time writing in your journal; listen to a favourite podcast or some music; or simply sit and relax.

Let the family know that when you are in this space, you’re off limits!

Enjoy the great outdoors

We may be self-isolating, but don’t discount the beauty of your outdoor areas. Whether you have an expansive garden or a small verandah, make time to get outside and breathe in the fresh air.

If you haven’t tried any mindfulness exercises before, this is the perfect time to start. This is a word that has been thrown around quite a bit in recent years, but mindfulness is simply the act of being present in the moment. You may want to use an app like Calm to help guide you. Or, you can easily do it yourself using your senses.

Close your eyes and ask yourself:

• What can you hear: the wind gently moving the leaves, the distant burr of a lawnmower or a bird chirruping?
• What can you feel: a soft breeze on your skin, the sun on your face, the grass beneath your feet?
• What can you smell: the scent of a nearby plant, a freshly mown lawn, the sweet smell of someone baking nearby?  

Give yourself the time to really feel and acknowledge the moment and relish in the opportunity to appreciate nature.

Get Pampered

The bathroom is often a place where people respect your privacy – so use this to your advantage! 

Start your pamper session by setting your scene: light a few candles (choose scents that encourage calm and relaxation like lavender and mint) and turn off the harsh overhead lights. Apply a face mask, then fill a bath and add in your favourite oil, salts or bath gel. Get in and submerge yourself neck-high, close your eyes and indulge.

Tell us what you did this week to help you relax in your own sanctuary?