Transitional Feng Shui: Finding Sacred Space Within

 Q: I live with my parents, so my space is confined to my room. I have cleared clutter multiple times but I don't feel like I'm getting anywhere. I do have a lot of stuff especially because I have lived on my own before and plan to again. A lot of the stuff I have, I use or love. My problems mainly have to do with my parents stuff. The color of my room which is two lovely shades of green was not chosen by me and I am not allowed to repaint. I have a large painting of a leopard on my wall that belongs to my mom. I have 3 pieces of furniture in my room that were hand me downs from family members. My parents store things in my closet and at the moment some in my actual room. My room also serves as the guest room and so my bed has energy from other people and couples. Is there anything I can do to help create better energy in this room while I live here?

A: In situations like this one, I think the challenge comes from the fact that, while it's important and necessary to respect the space and belongings of whomever you're staying with, it's also important for you to feel that centered feeling that comes from having your very own sacred space.

It sounds like you have a sense of the level of freedom that you have in the external/physical plane, and that you're already working with it as best you can. So I suggest that, during this time, you find and establish your sacred space in the internal/spiritual plane. Here are some ideas for how to do this. I am just offering them to give you ideas - choose the strategies that resonate with you, or create your own.

• Obtain a long cord or ribbon, and once per day, delineate a circle on the floor or on your bed and sit inside it, with your spine straight. Set a timer for 5-10 minutes. Close your eyes and take some deep breaths. Consciously relax. Envision a very bright sphere of golden-white light around yourself. Repeat the phrase, "Now and always, my sacred space is within and around me."
• Before going to sleep, smudge your bed with sage or mist it with a little rose water into which you've added essential oil of lavender. As you rest in bed, create internal space by thinking about all your blessings and all the infinite possibilities and opportunities that are already present in your life.
• Create a small altar in your room to use as a focal point for meditation, and to anchor your intentions and presence in the space.
• Give thanks for this place to stay as you joyfully create/manifest your perfect new conditions and space. Let it be a fun project and experience. Note all the blessings hidden within: not having to pay as much rent, as well as time and space to regroup, set intentions, and gain clarity.
• Play music to create sacred space, such as anything by Anugama, R. Carlos Nakai, or Stephen Halpern.

I also suggest checking out the following posts, as well as my new mini-ebook, Magical Clutter Clearing Boot Camp.

Living Well in Smaller Spaces
Magical Hygiene Lite: Easing Your Way into the Habit
How to Cast a Circle

photo: flickr/ R!E