I’ve been there. In a rut. Feeling less than inspired, not sure where to turn for motivation, and having the sense that everything around me -especially my goals and dreams and intentions – are getting lost in a deep haze.
When I did my yoga teacher training in Bali, there was a small altar set up in one corner of the room. A small table covered with a beautiful piece of cloth, a statue of Ganesha, incense and candles burning, and flowers as a reflection of the bounty of nature all around us. Each morning, a small ritual was performed in which the candles and incense were lit and those of us in the training were invited to add elements of our own lives to the altar – photos of loved ones, notes and letters, and elements from the earth (stones, shells, flowers, and leaves).
Every morning when I entered the space, I would take time in front of the altar…to set an intention, to ask Ganesha to assist me in clearing obstacles from my path, and to remember why I was there. This daily practice touched me deeply.
For so many years, even the word “altar” inspired complicated feelings in relationship to religion. Growing up as a Roman Catholic (and now no longer identifying with that faith), the altar always had a sense of being a forbidden space – especially for women. I grappled with this as I meditated and experimented with a different approach to what an altar could and can be. A space that is welcoming for all. One where my intentions and beliefs can exist alongside others.
I brought this practice home and created my own little altar at home. I included a candle, a small statue of Ganesha, some rocks, stones, and crystals from my travels, and an image of the White Tara. These small objects remind me of my purpose. They are items I cherish and they inspire me each and every day as I take time to meditate in front of this sacred space I’ve created for myself.
This space helps me get over my ruts, is my motivator, and clears out the haze. It is a place for grounding, observing, and listening to my deepest truth. When I make time to sit in this space, I am nourishing my body, soul, and spirit and giving myself the gift of inspiration.
I encourage you to create your very own “Altar of Inspiration” to see what it can do for you! I’ve created a little guide that contains five simple steps for manifesting your altar.
I hope it helps you create a space that is nourishing, welcoming…and inspiring!
To receive your free guide, just click on the image below or click here!
