I have a special place in my home devoted to my spiritual practice. My altar includes photos of my teachers (yoga and family) and some objects that inspire me: statues of Lakshmi, the goddess of abundance, and Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, some rocks, crystals, and trinkets I’ve collected, and a Catholic prayer card given to me by a dear friend. I like to spend a few minutes in front of my altar every day contemplating my life and my practice, but what I’ve learned over the years is that this physical space I’ve created in my home is really just a reflection of the altar within me. Every object, every photo is simply a manifestation of that which lies deep inside. I carry it with me always.
A home altar is deeply personal. I see it as a living, breathing organism—it changes as I change, reflecting my mental, emotional, and energetic needs. An altar holds space for us to return to what’s essential. It’s where we go when we need to remember. There is no right or wrong way to curate this space; all that matters is that when you abide in that space you feel at h(om)e with yourself.
Here’s a simple way to get started. Take a few moments and meditate on how you feel. Invite yourself to drop below the chatter—follow your breath down the path that leads you inward. Clearly identify the areas in your life where you feel you need more support and, if you can, write down a word or a phrase on a small piece of paper that expresses what you’re hoping to cultivate. Search your home for objects, photos and inspiration to add to your altar—things that inspire you to embody what it is that you need. Dedicate a small space in your home to your altar. Add candles, flowers, or incense to enrich the space.
Your altar will reflect what’s in your heart. Know that wherever you are, wherever you go, your altar will always be with you. Light a candle in the morning or at night before you go to bed and take a few moments to connect to that space within you.
