We’ve all had a crazy year filled with stress, anxiety and uncertainty. For most of us running has been our saving grace. Our runs are a time to decompress and refocus so we can take on what is ahead of us. But running doesn’t fix all woes, we all need a quiet place to relax, reflect and recharge. Many of us know the benefits of yoga for a runners’ body but we (and by we, I mean I) don’t always make the time to do it.

Maybe all we (I) needed was a special space. I was able to use my daughters room as my quiet space after she moved out but you can make any little space your own, with a few modifications. A corner of the living room, garage, backyard or even a hallway.

Creating A Quiet Space For Yoga 

• Aromatherapy

I start here because I think it’s so important for your space be inviting and what better way than with a favorite scent. Have you ever been to a spa? What is the first thing you noticed? That wonderful relaxing smell. I love that smell! 

I usually light a candle (Home Goods has so many to choose from at reasonable prices) but I also have a diffuser for essential oils and an incense burner. I find incense can be too much if you’re in an enclosed room, they might work better outside or in a bigger space. 

• Add A Little Green

Since the pandemic and being quarantined, more people have been testing out their green thumb by bringing nature inside. House plants have been proven to help clean the air by absorbing allergens and small particles through their leaves. They also absorb carbon dioxide and give off oxygen. Study’s have shown people feel more relaxed, heal quicker and do better at work when they have plants near by. I believe it’s because plants bring nature inside and nature makes people feel good. For a list of easy to care for houseplants go here.

• Color and Decor

I went to Pinterest for inspiration and decided on pale pink, grey and soft white for my colors. Blues and green are calming colors but pick what makes you happy. It’s your space after all. If your space is a temporarily cleared corner then maybe your yoga mat, blocks and cushion are in colors that make you happy. Gaiam is one of the many yoga suppliers to check out and they have a yoga mat for everyone. (I am not promoting them, it’s just a brand I have used and like.)

Keep it simple and uncluttered. You want enough room to move freely. I also find less is better when it comes to relaxing.

• A Place To Sit

I put a daybed in my space because I needed a place for guests to sleep, but my original plan was floor pillows. The daybed has actually worked out better because I was able to surround it with pillows and it’s off the floor, against a window that looks over the backyard. It’s also a great place to read. If your space is solely for yoga or meditation than floor pillows or cushions might be all you need.

• Soothing Sounds

You might find it necessary to have some calming music or soothing sounds to drown out any outside noise or just to set the mood. There are several playlists to chose from on Spotify and YouTube. 

My quiet room is a work in progress but I’m off to good start. I hope these ideas help you find your zen and motivate you to practice yoga like we all know we should. 

I’m linking with Kim and Zenaida for Tuesday Topics.

And Runners’ Roundup with Deborah, Debbie, Lisa, Laura and Jenn. Ladies if this post doesn’t fit your guidelines feel free to delete it. Thanks for the link up regardless. 🙂

Do you have any other ideas for a yoga/quiet space? What do you do to set the mood for yoga? 

For more on Yoga check out another post  here.

Thanks for reading!

             Denise