Creating a Zen Den – Part I

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced yogi, you may like to practice in a quiet space of your own.  I am eternally grateful for the dozens of teachers who have guided me and enhanced my yoga study over the years in some of the most beautiful studios I’ve ever seen, but for the most part, I find I get the most spiritual benefit from solitary practice.   It is easier for me to let go of my thoughts and to relax into each pose.  I tend to breathe more deeply than most, and by practicing alone, I can go at my own pace rather than altering my breath to keep up with a studio class.  Lastly, by practicing at home, I eliminate the hassle of finding a studio style, schedule, price and location that fits with my lifestyle.

I have experimented with different locations in my home.  Living in an old house with small rooms, it is not easy to find a clear floor space to roll out my mat for an hour of uninterrupted yogi bliss.  But with the clearing of a room in my basement, I think I have finally found the right spot.  It just needs a little TLC!  Here are my tips for creating a Zen Den of your own:

• LOCATION- Choose a place that is uncluttered and free of objects from your daily life.  No one wants to use their stack of bills or kids’ legos as a dristi during Vrksasana (Tree Pose).

• SPACE- If you can, find a space at least 2 feet wider on all sides than your arm-span.  You may think you can squeeze into a smaller space as long as your hands clear the walls or furniture, but you won’t relax if you are close enough to be concerned with every Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation).

• FLOORING- Practice on a hard, smooth surface.  Hardwood is best, but linoleum or tile may also work.  You want to avoid most carpet, as the soft pile fibers will not adhere to your yoga mat and therefore, your hands and feet will slip.  Some types of very flat rug surface will work, just test it first.  If you can sink into the fibers when stepping or patting the rug, it is too soft for yoga.

• LIGHTING- Personally, I cannot begin my practice unless the lighting is dim or turned off.  Avoid areas with bright lights or near windows that draw in bright sunshine or headlights from passing cars.  Use a lamp with a dimmer switch, or light candles around the room.   During the day, leave the lights off completely and practice in natural light.

• VIEW- Block any areas of distraction from your view.  If you are using a room that has furniture or other objects in sight, put up a curtain or folding panels to separate your yoga space.  This way you have your own yoga studio without taking up an entire room of the house.

• NOISE- If possible, create a quiet time or place for your yoga practice. If you cannot avoid the all-too-familiar noises of a busy household, schedule your practice for early morning or during your kids’ school hours.  I love to finish the day with yoga, after the kids are asleep and my husband is quietly relaxing in the living room.

In part 2, I will recommend products to guide your asana practice at home.

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