If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed or anxious in the temple, you’re not alone. Like any practice or new experience, there are several ways we can build our comfort level and confidence there.
In an Instagram reel for LDS Living, author Melinda W. Brown recently shared three practical tips to feel more comfortable in the temple.
1. Think of temple trips as visiting a loved one’s home
First, Melinda suggests thinking about temple visits as if you were going to visit a loved one who adores you, such as a grandparent. You could also think about a friend, mentor, or ward member.
“The temple is the house of the Lord, and He adores you, and He is thrilled that you are there,” Melinda says. “That should help put you a little bit at ease.”
2. Go at a consistent time and day of the week
Next, Melinda recommends scheduling your temple visits for a regular time and day of the week. This simple action not only helps you build a habit but also naturally leads to recognizing familiar faces.
Once you start to notice the same temple workers, Melinda recommends taking things a step further and introducing yourself: “Say something like, ‘I’m Mindy! I think I saw you last time I was here. I really appreciate your help—thanks for being here.’ They will remember you, and you’ll remember them. It’ll help.”
3. Find a favorite spot to revisit
Finally, Melinda suggests picking a favorite space that you can revisit:
“Pick a favorite chair, a favorite painting or piece of artwork, or [a] stained-glass window, and make it your place. Visit it repeatedly. Spend a minute or two there every time you go visit that temple just so it can start to feel special to you.
“Your thoughts and feelings that you have in that spot will start to become sacred and memorable, and you’ll feel more at home there.”
Just like finding a cozy nook in your home, this simple action can remind you that you belong in the temple and help personalize your experience.
You can watch the reel on LDS Living’s Instagram. Find more ideas about deepening your temple worship in Melinda’s new book, An Endowment of Love. Read the first chapter here: How to feel at home in the house of the Lord
Learn to feel at home in the temple
More articles for you:
▶ This might be the best thing to tell someone before they receive their endowment
▶ 3 takeaways from a new book on the endowment everyone is talking about
▶ This small shift in perspective can transform your temple worship
