a space
In this entire process, this house has represented many things to me. One of which is the possibility of creating a space that is just so. With the things I want, and none of the things I don’t. Personalized to my lifestyle, and as cheesy as it may sound, to my hopes, dreams, and visions of the future.
One of the spaces I knew that I always knew that I wanted to incorporate is a space specifically for time of personal ritual. Through the years, especially as my personal yoga practice has grown, expounding to not only the asana (movement) part of yoga on the mat, but also more of the meditation aspect, I’ve found myself more and more drawn to the importance of having time for reflection, vision, quiet, and clearing.
What a luxury to actually have a designated space for this. I know that in general one can create this almost anywhere, and it doesn’t have to be someplace special in and of itself, but can be any spot we decide to be, undistracted. But above what we may just find as a little corner in a makeshift room, which certainly can be used to sit and meditate for a while each day, it would be optimal to have a space that sets a boundary that keeps what is inside that boundary sacred. I think this makes it easier for us to step away, enter in, and know that when we are in that space, we are there for one specific thing. There is something about space and atmosphere that lends itself so deeply to this concept. It used to be more delineated in our lives - there was a place/time for work, a place/time for community, a place/time for resting, etc. But now almost everything in our lives are meshing together thanks to our multi-tasking natures and ever-connected communications. Our boundaries are blurred more than ever.
So after initially considering this personal space to be included in the multi-purpose room above the garage, which would be mainly for a private yoga studio and wellness area, I thought of using the high ceilings to add a half loft space for an office/desk area for me and a painting space/easel for J. Then under the loft would be the closed off area for a quiet meditation spot and some storage.
We went to meet with the architect about this idea before the final packet was completed for the contractors. After some time sketching out various ideas, he said it seemed better to put this in the master bedroom where the ceiling was even higher. He drew out the idea and I left feeling so happy with the new concept, and in love with the change. It thought it would be a good idea to find a little cocoon spot in the room to keep me focused, get some work done each day, etc. But then the very next morning I woke up and was sure that it now would be that spot for just being. The meditation hideaway. My work desk will find a home elsewhere (maybe after I see how I interact with the space and where I most feel inspired).
For now, this new little lofty platform will be
where I allow myself to enter as a designated space,
where the threshold beckons to leave the day-to-day stresses and to-do lists at the proverbial door.
A space that invites one to be quiet
and that only holds those reminders of importance,
of the symbols and tangibles of ritual.
And one that leaves the visitor inspired
hopeful
more full,
and more empty at once.
A space that is for exactly its namesake: space.