Creating your own Sacred Altar

A feature article by Jane Rosale Booth, Feb 02, 2008         

Altars have been created to worship God/Goddess in all religions. They are designed in many ways, but they all have an atmosphere of peace and tranquility. You can create your own personal altar to create a sacred place. It can be indoors or outdoors. Any location that makes you feel special, peaceful, or appreciative is the perfect spot for an altar. We create altars to represent parts of us and to bless the relationships we have with other people, nature, and Divine Spirit which lead us to wholeness.

To help create your altar, think of the following questions to find the intention or theme of your altar. •What am I thankful for?
•What gives me peace?
•What healing or blessing do I need?
•What inspires me?
•What is magical in my life?
•What makes me feel special?
•What in my life excites me and makes me feel alive? Jot down your answers and begin to sense what your altar will represent to you.

What do you place on your altar?

Anything you please! It may reflect your religious beliefs or choose objects that revolve around a theme such as peace or love. Altar objects are sacred because you consider them special such as family pictures or keepsakes. Be creative. Write a poem or letter to someone you love. You may want to honour your past, present, or future by writing on a paper write intentions, goals and dreams. Decorate a box and use it as a prayer box or affirmation box. Don't forget special occasions - birthdays, anniversaries, travel, mourning.

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Here are some suggestions to represent the elements to increase our appreciation and our connection to nature: •Air: fans, flags, banners, feathers
•Water: fountains, bowls of water, seashells, or essential oils in water •Earth: gems, stones, crystals, potting soil, plants, flowers •Fire: candles, incense, pictures of flames, pictures of Sun

What to do at your altar?
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our altar evokes a certain state of mind whenever you look at it. You may create your own rituals by lighting a candle and saying a prayer. Honour your wholeness and connection with those you love. Your altar creates a wonderful sacred space to meditate. Play some soft music, chant or sing, or enjoy a quiet time while meditating by your altar. Meditation assists us to move into our inner sacred space to connect with our Divine Spirit. In the stillness of meditation, you can pray, ask for guidance, visualize how you would like your life to be, and feel a Divine presence loving and embracing you. In this sacred space you can “listen” and give thanks for your blessings and discover your life purpose.

Your altar will change and evolve as you transform and expand your spiritual awareness. It will bring you joy and peace and provide a sacred place where you can express your deepest thoughts and dreams. Enjoy creating your altars and a peaceful sacred space.

Jane Rosalea Booth, BA, CSW, Minister of Spiritual Peacemaking Author, In Silence, Discovering Self through Meditation http://www.in-silence.net