Creating a Sacred Space in Your Home

Creating a sacred space in your home is one of the first steps to finding and maintaining balance. Since spiritual practice is one of the pillars of a balanced life we must find  both the literal and esoteric space for it.  With all of the demands of a job or raising a family it can seem nearly impossible to find the time or space for self reflection, not to mention a moment of silence. While technology can make our lives simpler, allowing us to keep in touch globally and access a wealth of information, it can also extend our workday into family and alone time when we don't create proper boundaries for ourselves. Moreover, a demanding career can mean that you have to be on call at all times. As a result you may find yourself constantly wishing you had some downtime. But maintaining and striving for material success doesn't mean that you have to give up personal freedom.
I have found that dedicating a corner of a room or special chair can offer you the space for practice as long as it can remain standing. Having your mat already laid out for you will be a constant reminder that your practice is waiting for you. Depending on your home's layout, finding a space can be challenging. I have used everything from a cushion on the floor in a walk in closet, to space in the garage. In my last house I was fortunate enough to have a room completely dedicated to yoga and meditation. But in my current home with two big dogs, and two rambunctious boys running around on the weekends, quiet space can be hard to find.
If you a have a meditation practice. I highly recommend purchasing a meditation chair or buying a special cushion. Think of the chair or pillow as an altar to you.Taking time to find or create something comfortable and beautiful will signal that you are about to do something sacred from the moment you sit down. It will also discourage others from parking their butt in your chair, as they will recognize it as being special to you.  Even if you don't meditate, having a special chair that you can sit in to journal or just contemplate silence can be nice.

As far as space for yoga you need a spot just big enough for your yoga mat. If you can find a corner you maybe able to hang some pictures that invoke a peaceful atmosphere, special deity or beautiful landscape. If you have a spot for an altar you can place incense, pictures of your teachers, loves ones and anything else that is meaningful to you in a sacred way. The more you practice, the space will become infused with the energy of your practice, and the seeds of your deepest desires will  be planted in fertile soil, allowing all of your dreams to sprout forth. So even if you can only steal way 5 minutes, that is enough to calm your mind, steady your breath and go within.
I'd love to hear other thoughts and ideas on creative ways to make space for practice.
My favorite mediation chairs are from Gaiam and Zen by Design. Pier 1 giant pillows make a good sitting cushions and can be covered with nice Indian pillow covers that you can get online very inexpensively. If you have back problems try the Backjack chair that has back support or prop yourself up against the wall.