Pain management takes many forms. One of the most surprisingly helpful ways to ease chronic pain is through the power of meditation.
The ancient practice has a multitude of benefits. Studies have found that meditation can reduce stress, sharpen mental clarity, and improve the health of those living with chronic pain.
Creating a meditation space in your home can serve as a daily reminder to return to the practice. Here’s how to DIY the perfect meditation corner for a new part of your daily chronic pain therapy practice.
First: Find the right our meditation pose for you.
The lotus pose (legs crossed, hands clasped together or resting on your thighs) is the position most people think of when they are asked to picture someone meditating.
But, for those who are using this practice as a form of pain management, you may need to choose an area wide enough to lay down. The corpse pose aka Shavasana (lying on your back, arms to the side) is a good position for people with back and knee pain.
Chairs or sturdy cushions are acceptable and very common to use in mediation. After all, you can’t truly relax if your hips and spine are out of alignment. (For more detailed advice on choosing the right meditation cushion, read this article.)
Now that you have an idea of the amount of space you need, you can pick your meditation space.
Set aside space.
A meditation corner is a designated spot in your home to meditate. Set this area aside, if you can. That way, the chaos of the rest of your home won’t flow into this space. Just as you should only use your bed for sleeping, your meditation corner should only be used for meditating.
Many people choose corners in rooms that feel serene to them. You can also use an area in your garden or even an empty closet. The spot should be quiet and away from intrusions.
If you don’t have room to spare, you create a temporary meditation space with the help of a yoga mat, earbuds, and music playlist featuring soothing sounds like rain.
Approach the design from a sensory perspective.
When you think of being calm, what’s the first thing that pops into your mind? Something soft? The sound of running water? Chances are you imagined more than one thing.
Consider all the senses when designing your meditation space:
- Sound: A water fountain, white noise machine, a meditation playlist, and singing bowls are popular choices to bring soothing sounds to your space. You can also use a meditation app like Calm.
- Sight: Pick colors and artwork that appeal to you. String lights or hang a sheer sheet to block off your spot from the rest of the room. Bring nature into the space with the addition of small plants.
- Touch: Choose tactile materials that are soothing, such as silk and organic cotton. A fake lambskin rug is also a popular choice, like this one.
- Smell: Essential oils or candles are a quick way to put you in a relaxed state. Choose calming scents like lavender and lemongrass.
Tips receive the full benefits of meditation.
To benefit from meditation, you need to practice it correctly.
- You will see the best results when you practice every day.
- Hide your phone and any other distraction.
- Set a timer if you find yourself worrying about losing track of time.
A pain management therapy that includes meditation impacts the mind and body. If you’re suffering from an old injury or need help finding the right chronic pain therapy program for you, contact us today to set up your appointment.
