In the lead up to Christmas and the end of the year, it’s no wonder stress levels are often high! There always seems to be so much to do and not enough time to get everything done.
To escape from the busy pace, our homes are our sanctuary (well at least until family arrive for Christmas!) but too often we neglect them, forgetting that the home is where health and wellbeing starts.
In this post I explain why health and wellbeing are important in the home and easy ways you achieve it.
Create a calm and relaxing home interior
The home environment we surround ourselves in has a large impact on our mood, so it’s no surprise that dark, dull or overcrowded spaces can bring our spirits down and cause us to feel frazzled.
- Colour has a large influence on psychological wellbeing. Consider using lighter shades on the walls, curtains or blinds to create a calming feel and introduce more dramatic tones as accent colours in your home. For example – décor items such as cushions, throws, vases and artwork can all be used to introduce colour to a space without it feeling like too much.
- Decide on the interior style you love and repeat this throughout the home for a cohesive look.
- To create a homely feel experiment with layering textures that are made from natural materials such as linen, jute, timber or stone as this helps us connect with the natural environment around us.
Image by Elle France via Pinterest
Bedroom Bliss
When it comes to our physical and mental health, sleep is one of the most important routines we can establish. Here are some top tips for creating a restful space.
- When it comes to colour, choose a soft calm colour palette using muted colours such as neutrals, blues or greens.
- It goes without saying that a good quality mattress is a must, but consider investing in some soft breathable bedding such as bamboo, linen or natural cotton as these materials are ideal for all types of weather, hypoallergenic and environmentally sustainable.
- Consider the right type of lighting. Bedrooms are predominantly used for sleeping but it helps to have a natural light source for the daytime to create a fresh and clean space.
- Ensure you have the right type of window dressings for the bedroom such as black out blinds for the evening. Bedside lamps are a great way to control the light source in the night. To help create a relaxing environment for restful sleep consider using a warm globe for soft lighting.
Image by homebeautiful.com.au via Pinterest
Ditch the clutter
Whilst our homes should be filled with what we love, consider whether all the items you have on display tell the story of who you are or whether they just fill the space and detract from it.
- To decide whether an item can stay or go ask yourself these questions: do I love this and does it fit with my interior style – if you answered no to both, then it’s times to send it to the op shop! Remember you don’t have to have all the items that are precious to you on display.
- Create some negative space in a room where this isn’t furniture. Not only does makes it feel more spacious, it can help reduce stress levels.
- To clear a busy mind, keep surfaces minimal. The more we have on display, the more flustered we can feel. For those who have young children, consider investing in some jute baskets as a stylish toy storage option as they can be re-used over time.
Image by The Dharma Door via Pinterest
The benefits of plants
Research has shown that contact with nature is beneficial to our well-being as it can reduce stress levels and negative feelings and boost our mental health. Many plants also have healing abilities making them the perfect addition to any interior.
- Whether you’re a green thumb or not, there’s no denying the positive effect a bit of greenery has on our moods. If keeping plants alive is a pain point for you, consider investing in a good quality fake or a plant that is of the succulent variety as they’re hardy and easy to look after.
- For many of us allergies such as asthma can be a major issue for our health. Plants such as Peace Lily, Devils Ivy and Snake Plants can all assist in improving air quality and they look great in any indoor pot or planter.
- Indoor plants have shown to improve concentration and productivity by up to 15%, so don’t neglect your workspace!
Image by urbanoutfitters.com via Pinterest
Image and Brand Credits – Elle France, homebeautiful.com.au, The Dharma Door, urbanoutfitters.com and Pinterest.
If you would like some help creating a calm and relaxing feel in your own home but have no idea on where to start, book in now for a FREE 30 minute interior consultation.