Friday, September 12th marks one year since I closed on my very own home—a whole year of making it mine and creating memories under my own roof! Every day has been a journey of comfort, joy, and true sanctuary. For someone with autism, having a space that feels entirely safe and welcoming is more than a roof over your head—it’s a place to recharge, reflect, and simply be yourself. The feeling of walking through the front door and knowing this is my space, my rules, my sanctuary, is a joy I cannot fully describe in words.

Living independently brought on responsibilities I have been learning to do: managing bills, navigating routines, and ensuring daily responsibilities were handled. Through the support of family, friends, and community, I was able to create a home that feels like a safe harbor. It is here that I can breathe, reflect, and simply be—without judgment, without pressure, just sanctuary.

What Makes a Home a Sanctuary?

Sanctuary is more than a physical space; it’s emotional safety, comfort, and stability. My home has predictable routines, sensory-friendly spaces, and personal touches that make it uniquely mine. Soft lighting, quiet corners, and textures that soothe the senses turn my house into a place of refuge. It is a space where my mind can rest, my spirit can grow, and my heart can feel peace.

Daily Life in My Sanctuary

Every morning begins with movement—lifting weights or doing a cardio session that energizes my body and focuses my mind. Afterward, I have a cup of water with a pinch of sea salt, a simple ritual that rejuvenates me right before I go to work each weekday. Music plays a big role in my sanctuary; I’ve been learning to express myself creatively, strumming my guitar or ukulele, letting the melodies capture feelings I sometimes struggle to put into words. Evenings are filled with quiet reflection, listening to familiar tunes, and simply embracing the calm. My routines, my music, my rituals—they all weave together to make my home a place of joy and serenity.

Making New Memories with Family, Friends, and Community

Living in my own home has not been just about solitude—it has been a doorway to connection. Family gatherings in my living room, laughter-filled evenings with friends, and participation in local community events have created countless new memories. These moments fill my sanctuary with warmth and love, turning it from a safe space into a place brimming with life. The joy of sharing small victories, celebrating milestones, or simply spending time with loved ones has made my home not just a refuge, but a vibrant hub of happiness.

Balancing Responsibilities and Living with Joy

Over this past year, I’ve learned the delicate art of balance. From managing bills to cooking healthier, plant-based meals, I have discovered the beauty in tending to responsibilities while nurturing myself. Music and creative expression have become tools for joy, while healthy cooking and mindful routines provide structure. Living intentionally, blending responsibility with pleasure, has taught me that happiness can be cultivated daily. Each chore, each melody, each nourishing meal contributes to a rhythm of life that feels harmonious and fulfilling.

Owning my home has transformed my sense of self. It has strengthened my confidence, reduced anxiety, and taught me resilience. My sanctuary is a constant reminder that I can create a life that aligns with my needs and desires. It’s a place where I can flourish emotionally, mentally, and creatively—a true testament to independence, joy, and love.

This past year has shown me that sanctuary is not just a place—it’s a feeling, a way of living. For someone with autism, having a personal space to feel safe, understood, and joyful is a gift beyond measure. My home is where life slows, where happiness grows, and where every corner carries warmth, memories, and the promise of peace. Sanctuary is where the heart truly feels at home.

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