Sunday, August 7, 2011

Sunday's Mindful Home


Our homes should be our sanctuary.
A place to leave our worries at the door, where our souls are nurtured.
No matter where we live, be it cabin, cottage, mansion or tent, there are ways to make our environment more comfortable, creating a sanctuary for ourselves and our family.
Here are a few simple suggestions:

Surround your senses with beauty.
Like the scent and glow of candles.

Or the sound of a trickling fountain.
Listen to music....

Surround yourself with beautiful art...

...art that speaks to and nurtures your soul.

Bring the outdoors in.

Natural elements like pine cones and found bird's nests...

shells, rocks and twigs --all gathered from our time outdoors, bring a feeling of nature inside.

Bring plants into your home.

They filter the air of indoor pollutants...

... and are another way to enjoy nature inside.

Create an atmosphere of love.
Display photographs of family and friends.

The people you love and cherish.

Photographs of happy memories.

Claim your own space, a shrine if you will.
Cherished photos, a special book, the smell of a lavender sachet, candle or flower, provides a restful place that is personal and loving.

Set aside a place for spiritual reflection.
Whether it's a place in the garden...

...or a space in your home that provides peace and calm, where we can feel sheltered from the noise and distraction of the world outside.

A place to be quiet, pray or meditate and be thankful.

After all, it's a crazy world out there!
That's why we need, more than ever, our own private sanctuary.

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28 comments:

Anonymous said...

I agree that our homes should be our sanctuary! Lots of candles and family photos over here. Hope your weekend is fantastic! xo

Marty@A Stroll Thru Life said...

Great post and beautiful pictures. I so agree. Home should be a place where all the stress of the world evaporates the minute you walk in the door. Have a super Sunday. Hugs, Marty

Kathysue said...

Hi D, You know that I feel the exact same way as you do. I have always said home should be the respite for all the craziness we have out in the world. I know when I enter my doors I take a deep breath and I become very thankful for what God has chosen to give me. I loved seeing all the special spots in your gorgeous home, xo Kathysue

Agni said...

I feel the same , and I love your paintings -Ag

Pinky at Designs by Pinky said...

This post just calmed me right down. Thank you!!!! I so agree that our home should be our sanctuary. That is how I feel in my living room or out on my deck. I am surrounded by the things I love and it is calming and peaceful. Happy Sunday, Delores. XO, Pinky

Lori E said...

Taking the time to take time. Wonderful idea.
BTW make sure you pick up that bunch of grapes off the Adirondack chair before you sit down or your sense of peace with quickly evaporate.

Kathy's Red Door Welcome said...

I totally agree. The home should be a place of refuge and should rise up to greet us with peace and calm. Your photos all bring that sensibility to light.

The enchanted home said...

Love this post. I too agree that we should put our own personal stamp to make our homes feel like a sanctuary. When we close our front door to the increasing stress and chaos in the world, our homes are where we should feel safe, protected and at peace. I strive for that very much, have candles always lit, like to have flowers around, tons of pictures of family and friends and soothing soft lighting helps to create this special feeling. Love all your images above!

Lori said...

If these shots are all from around your home, you are one lucky girl. Lovely thoughts and pictures.

coastal femme said...

Delores,

Beautiful photos and words of wisdom.

Taylor Greenwalt said...

I agree. When I get home I want everything to be peaceful. I am re- designing my living room and everything is a mess right now. Cant wait until everything is done. Could I borrow your house until mine is done? Thanks for sharing such beautiful and calm pictures of your home.

My Cozy Casita said...

Hi, I agree My home is my templo I love to have candles always lit,I put fresh flowers there pictures of my family to, I like your home you have nice decoration it a beautiful home.
Blessing
Isora

Audrey said...

Thank you for this! I have been following your blog for several months now but have not felt compelled to comment until now. This is something I think I need to do right now. It seems like when we really need something in our life it just starts popping up in different scenarios all over the place...this is happening to me right now. Thank you again for the wonderful advice! :)

Anonymous said...

I love this post! Just what I needed to read today. Thank you for your beautiful blog and mindful reflections. I love your blog and look forward to visiting everyday! Have a wonderful day!

Anonymous said...

Really beautiful!
Hugs Rosemary...

Sarah said...

Yes, our homes should be a sanctuary and refuge from that crazy world out there. These images definitely reflect that feeling in your home.

Unknown said...

Lovely post, and important reminder.

Blessings,
Kathy

Dianne said...

These tips are great and most often neglected due to being fashionable and styish. Throw the rules out the window, it's your home and you need for it to feel good. Thanks for reminding everyone!

On Crooked Creek said...

Delores,
I adore this post! I agree! One of your best points...Create an atmosphere of love. Display photos of family and friends. So many decorators want to take all of this out. I say, "Isn't home about family???" Your photography is exquisite!
Fondly,
Pat

under spanish moss said...

What wonderful suggestions. We love candle light, indoor plants and the sound of a trickling founding. Quite places to reflect and pray are so important!
XO Angela and Renee

Lizabeth said...

Beautiful post! You are right on! I definitely believe a home should be place to truly live and feel comfortable. You are a great example of doing just that, your home is decorated so nicely yet has an inviting comfortable feel. All the best elements!

Michele Smith said...

Beautiful and inspiring post. I totally agree :) Love the beautiful pictures too.

Have a wonderful week!

Bunny Jean said...

Delores, Thanks for the beautiful sentiments. I will try to take your advice and enjoy every day.

xoxo Bunny Jean @ Bunny Jeans Decor and More!
www.BunnyJeansDecorAndMore.blogspot.com

Allison said...

A beautiful post, Delores. Candles and family photos are a must for me!

Acanthus and Acorn said...

Well said! Love the photo of your fountain!

Unknown said...

Beautiful post. Thanks for reminding us that our homes can be a respite from the rest of the world.
Hugs,
Mary

Creative Choices Interior(s) said...

Enjoyed your post. I also use a lot of candles and plants to create a warm and welcoming invitation to my home. Although makes me all the more anxious for Fall.

Thanks for sharing this

Katy Noelle said...

Happy sigh!

The last few days, the strangest thing has been happening to me. I've been waiting for summer to begin and, then, suddenly, the air has been very chilly (around 60 during the day) and the nights are even chillier and...the leaves have started turning - not all of them - but, some, definitely. My heart and mind just naturally turn to home. Oh, how I love reading your post!

Thank you for the visit. I am so refreshed!

Hugs to you, lovely woman!

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