Create Your Sanctuary!

When I was a kid, I used to have a special tree. It was easy to climb and had a perfect place to sit. This tree made me feel safe and it held me through happy and sad times. It was my own sanctuary.

Sanctuary means different things to different people. To some, a sanctuary is the place to share their religion and to others, it is a haven from oppression and cruelty. I believe sanctuaries are also personal places we go to escape, feel safe, and rest.

For many years, I forgot about the importance of having a sanctuary. I was raising my kids, working, and constantly on the go. My life was busy and there never seem to be time to find a new sanctuary. But somewhere inside of me, I missed my tree and the peace it gave me.

Then I got a cat. My agreement upon adopting her was that she would be an inside cat. But Aggie was meant to be outside, stalking and watching the birds and other animals.

Aware of her unhappiness, I decided to screen in my porch and let her be out there. I also added a bird bath and another bird feeder, which gave Aggie lots to watch without damage to either cat or bird.

It wasn’t long before I was watching the birds along with Aggie. Now, I go out frequently at the end of the day when the feeder becomes a very busy place. I sit in an old rocking chair and just watch nature going about her business.

When I’m there, rocking and watching, I forgot all the things I’ve should have done and all the things I need to do. Instead, I feel safe, at peace, and restful. I do believe I have found my new sanctuary!

What about you? Do you have your own personal sanctuary?

If you don’t have one, I encourage you to create it. It might be a garden, a meditation room or just a room full of colors, pictures and other things you love. The important thing is to make it your own special place where you can go to rest, feel safe and be at peace.

Once you have your sanctuary, visit it frequently. Treat your visits like any other important activity during your day. Make an appointment for yourself. Write it in your calendar or put up a sticky note to remind yourself to spend time in your sanctuary.

It’s GOOD to allow yourself a place to unwind, feel safe, and enjoy the present. I don’t think you will regret it. I know I haven’t!