What is an altar?

Altars have been used for hundreds of years around the world and in many different religions and cultures. They are used as a point of focus for ritual, prayer, mindfulness, manifestation and meditation. An altar is a place for focused energy and intention and can be incorporated into the home environment.

 

An altar can be placed on a small side table or even be a main display feature. You can place it anywhere. In the bedroom, office, lounge, meditation room or even in a dedicated spot outside in the garden. Where ever you choose to place your altar, be mindful that this place should feel peaceful for you. A place of quiet reflection and sanctity that helps to relax and refocus your mind and goals. It’s a perfect place for meditation.

 

What items do I need to create an altar?

First think about what size alter you would like and find a suitable table or space. It’s best to have it in a location that won’t be disturbed like on a small side table, in your meditation space or in the garden. This should be a space that promotes tranquillity and calm for you. You really can place anything you love on your altar like:

  • A beautiful cloth or scarf as a base for the alter
  • Crystals
  • Candles
  • Feathers
  • Statues
  • Oracle cards
  • Flowers, plants and leaves
  • Any trinkets you have that bring you joy

How do I set up my altar?

The main thing to consider when creating an altar is the purpose of your altar. What is your intention? Do you want to manifest something, do you want to create a morning ritual, do you want to create more peace in your life, do you want to attract a partner or do you want a beautiful place where you can meditate? Once you set your intention, then choose the items that best help to support your intention.

 

You may wish to start by placing a cloth or scarf as the base of your altar. If you have a statue or large item like a large crystal, plant or shell, this would be a great time to place your feature item.

 

Next, you may wish to create a crystal grid. Crystal grids in an altar setting can be very powerful at enhancing your intention. Here are a few suggestions of the type of crystals you may wish to include:

 

Rhodochrosite:             Self-less love and compassion

Herkimer Diamond:       Creativity, telepathy and clairvoyance

Rose Quartz:                 Unconditional love and peace

Smokey Quartz:             Grounding and protection

Citrine:                         The stone of abundance

Carnelian:                     Ground and anchors you in the present reality

Amethyst:                     Tranquillity and healing

Choose crystals that best suit your intentions. For more information about crystals and their energetic properties, click here to see our extensive list of crystal meanings.

Free Form, RHODOCROSITE, Stalactite HERK 2 ROS PY1A SM PP1 TUM CITN CAR N AME S1

Once your crystal grid or crystal placement is complete, feel free to add your other items. Be mindful of your intention while placing each item.

 

You may wish to draw an oracle card or three to place with the altar.

 

What do I do after my altar is set up?

Now that your altar is set up the way you like, it is time to activate it. You can do this by simply sitting quietly and setting the intention that your grid is now activated. You can also light some incense, light a candle or sage the altar. You can also use a clear quartz point or wand to trace around your crystal grid and altar while using your intention that the grid and altar be activated.

 

Once your altar is activated you can choose to include the altar in your daily meditations or rituals. It’s a great way to relax and focus your awareness towards peace, abundance and your intentions for the day/week/year.

 

How often should I change my altar?

That is completely up to you. Some people like to change their altar with the moon cycles, every two weeks or whenever feels right for you. It is a good idea to change them every now and then, or add to them or at lease readjust the items in the grid as it allows for new energy flow and ideas.

 

Here is a recap of the steps to take to create your altar.

Step 1: Choose the location for your altar and the size

Step 2: Set your intention

Step 3: Place your feature item

Step 4: Mindfully create your crystal grid

Step 5: Add any other items that you love and that bring you joy

Step 6: If it resonates, pull some oracle cards for your grid

Step 7: Activate the altar

Step 8: Enjoy

 

Tip: Try creating a festive season altar for well wishes for this time of the year.