January/February 2003 Living Now
Ask Mariel:
Creating Your Living Space

Dear Mariel,

I have just moved into my own place. Beginning in the New Year I will be focusing on decorating and creating my own "sanctuary". I am thinking of having a small meditation altar and anything else that would bring in "good energy" and enhance my place. Do you have any suggestions for creating a positive living space?
      - Creating a Sanctuary

Dear Creating,

What we see influences us. What we see around our homes …photographs, pictures on the wall, plants, furniture, colors …is our "field of dreams". Vision connects to our brains. You may have forgotten it’s even there. Your eyes haven’t. What we see influences our thoughts, what we think influences our future.

When you look around your home what do you see? You are seeing your "field of dreams". Plant the colors, theme, and furniture that will inspire you. Does everything have or create a good feeling? If it triggers less than favorable emotions, toss it. Start anew; look for bargains in second-hand stores. If you must keep it, spray a mild-solution of salt-water around it to clear the emotional charge attached to it. Everything stores energy--particularly the energy of strong emotions.

To cleanse the energy of your space, begin by "smudging" each room. "Smudging" is a Native American spiritual practice that is done by burning sage in the room to clear the energy. Make sure the sage smoke reaches all areas of the room, especially where you are setting up a meditation altar. Focusing on what is visual and then cleansing the energy will create a sacred sanctuary–a joyful space that represents you. Next, concentrate on color; every color has a vibration. If you wish to maximize a positive energy flow that unites your environment, look into Feng Shui. There are many books on the topic or hire a consultant. . Creating a wonderful living space will enhance your life. What a great way to start the New Year!

Mariel Martin is a Psychic Advisor and Life Coach with over 25 years experience in counseling. Mariel invites readers to e-mail their questions on career, health & love life to Mariel@invite2insight.com. Your identity is kept confidential. All letters will receive a response and one will be selected to share with readers in "Ask Mariel". For more information, visit Mariel’s website www.invite2insight.com ;or contact her at 515 NW Saltzman Road, #703, Portland,OR, 503-350-0705.