Vastu, The Sacredness of Our Surroundings

A while ago, I learned about the importance of keeping my study area in order and clutter-free. As a student, I was told how having a messy desk, for instance, would make it harder for me to concentrate, since my attention would be drawn to all of the things scattered around my desk at one point or another. In fact, I did a little experiment and studied while sitting at a messy desk and on an orderly one. I do not know if it was the Virgo in me, but I was able to focus better when things were in order. 

Even though the word sacredness has strong religious and spiritual connotations, at its essence, sacredness is the state of being set apart for, or dedicated to, something exclusively. Practicing sacredness as we study is to have only things that are conducive to studying in the area that we use for that purpose. Anything else is superfluous and distracts us from our study.

When practicing meditation, it is recommended that we set a time, a space, and even clothing, if possible that are conducive to turning within. This is not an opportunity to be rigid about all these things, but to do it to the best of our capabilities. This is recommended because, eventually, our body and mind learn to have a response to the environment we have created. Every time we come into this space, our whole being recognizes that now it is time to turn within.

This shows us the power of our surroundings, how much influence we have in shaping them, and how the spaces we create ultimately affect our sense of self.

I look forward to seeing you as we explore this theme in class.

Breathe easy,

Blessings,

Jorge Nihāl