Today, I want to talk to you about how to carve out moments of mindfulness in a busy, distraction-filled life.
Back in my (short-lived) life coach days, I remember talking to a client about how to stay grounded and present during a particularly stressful situation with a family member. She was feeling overwhelmed, struggling to set boundaries, and unsure how to navigate the emotions that kept bubbling up.
One of my suggestions was simple but effective: pick a piece of jewelry and set an intention around it. “When I touch this necklace, ring, or bracelet,” I told her, “remind yourself that you can set boundaries in this situation.” It was a small but powerful way to anchor herself in the moment, to remind herself that she had choices.
And I’ve come to realize—art can serve the same purpose.
Art as a Visual Cue for Mindfulness
A piece of original art isn’t just something to fill a blank wall. It can be a touchstone, a daily visual reminder to slow down, breathe, and come back to yourself. When life feels chaotic, art can help quiet the noise.
The right piece—whether it’s an abstract swirl of deep blues and greens that remind you to exhale or a sweeping landscape that makes you feel expansive and free—can shift the entire energy of a space. It becomes more than decor. It becomes a gentle nudge to return to your deeper values, to integrate peace and mindfulness into your living space.
How to Create a Space of Reflection
If you’re craving a space that feels like a deep exhale, here’s how to start:
- Pick an area in your home that you want to imbue with significance. It doesn’t have to be an entire room—just a space that’s yours. A cozy corner in your bedroom, a small nook in the living room, or even a section of your desk can become a retreat.
- Set an intention for how you want to feel in this space. Do you want to feel calm and serene? Strong and boundless? Quiet and deeply connected? Naming what you need is the first step in creating a space that supports you.
- Reflect on the elements that will bring that feeling into being. Would a new paint color shift the mood? Do you need a comfortable chair where you can sit and journal? Maybe a candle, a favorite inspirational book, or a soft throw blanket?
- Choose art that aligns with your values and intention. Hang or place a piece that resonates with you—one that visually reminds you to breathe, to reflect, to be present.
- Enjoy your “new” space. Let it become a part of your daily rhythm—a place you return to when you need grounding, a space that exists simply for you.
A Sanctuary for the Soul
Our homes should be more than just places we exist in. They should support us, reflect our inner worlds, and remind us of what matters most. The right art can do that. It’s more than just a pretty picture—it’s a doorway back to yourself.
So if you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, distracted, or disconnected, maybe this is your nudge to create a space that feels like a deep breath. A space that holds you, reminds you, and brings you back to the present moment—again and again.