The Sacred Practice of Creating Space
Finding Sacred in the Simple
People often ask me how to maintain a spiritual practice after leaving traditional religious structures. They expect complex answers involving meditation cushions, crystal grids, or elaborate prayer routines. While these tools can be beautiful and meaningful, I've found that sacred space often begins with something much simpler: intention and attention.
Some mornings, I'm bright and ready. Other days, like the shy titmouse, I need more coaxing to emerge. Both states are welcomed - this is the first lesson in creating sacred space: accepting what is.
Creating Your Container
Though my understanding of divine promises has evolved far beyond my fundamentalist days, there's something profound about greeting the dawn. It reminds me that each day is a new beginning, another chance to discover grace in unexpected places.
The practical elements of my space are simple:
My journal and favorite pen
Musings on Grace cards
A candle
Space for a glass of iced herbal tea
A comfortable chair
Natural light when possible
But more important than these physical elements is the internal space I create. Before I begin writing or drawing cards, I take three deep breaths. Sometimes I whisper a simple prayer: "Holy Mystery, have mercy on me." No elaborate words needed - just a recognition of presence and openness to what might emerge.
When Inspiration Meets Practice
Some mornings, inspiration flows easily. A card drawn from my deck sparks immediate insight. Words pour onto the page, poems emerge fully formed, prayers rise naturally from my heart. These are the mornings that remind me why I started this practice.
But not every morning feels inspired. Sometimes I sit in silence, feeling blocked or distant from that sense of sacred connection. These mornings are equally important - perhaps even more so. They teach me that spiritual practice isn't about forcing enlightenment or manufacturing profound experiences. It's about showing up, creating space, and trusting that simply being present is enough.
Making Space in the Margins
While my morning routine is the foundation of my practice, I've learned to create pocket-sized sacred spaces throughout the day:
A moment of gratitude while waiting for my tea water to boil
A breath prayer while stopped at a red light
A pause to notice beauty in unexpected places
A whispered "thank you" when something touches my heart
These micro-moments remind me that sacred space isn't confined to my desk or dependent on perfect conditions. It's available anywhere we choose to notice, to pause, to open our hearts to presence.
Invitation to Practice
If you're looking to create your own sacred space, start small:
Choose a consistent time and place
Begin with just 5-10 minutes
Include one or two meaningful objects
Keep it simple and sustainable
Welcome whatever arises
Remember there's no "right" way to do this
The goal isn't to create a perfect practice but to open space for authentic connection with yourself and whatever you understand as sacred.
Creating Community in Sacred Space
One of the most beautiful aspects of developing personal sacred space is how it can naturally extend to create community. When we share our practices, even in their simplicity, we give others permission to explore their own. You don't need elaborate rituals or perfect understanding - just the willingness to show up and share authentically.
I invite you to join our growing community of seekers. Share your experience in the comments below: How do you create sacred space in your daily life? What simple practices help you connect with Holy Mystery?
Looking for more guidance on creating sacred space? My cards, "Musings on Grace," and my book, "Longing for Intimacy" offer daily practices and reflections for connecting with Holy Mystery. Join our newsletter community for weekly inspiration and support on your journey.