Everybody needs their home to be an oasis of peace and calm. But, busy people especially have to be able to come back home to a space that allows them to decompress and recharge after a day of intense work.
Even if you work from home in a home office, you need the rest of your house to offer you a place that can detach you from your work. When you have a house that you can truly relax in, then this will help you stay more productive and less stressed overall no matter how stressful your job is.
Decorating your home can go a long way to creating this kind of space that invites tranquility.
In this article, I will go over several ways you can create a more tranquil and peaceful home where you can unwind.
Use water
One of the most peaceful and relaxing sounds you can imagine is that of moving water. Whether it is ocean waves gently lapping at the shore, a burbling brook, or a water fountain, the sound immediately makes you feel at ease and ready to relax.
The sound of water offers a non-threatening sound that gives us a sense of security. Sudden or loud sounds that trigger a fear response in the brain are drowned out.
Mounting wall water features are a good way to bring water into your home without taking up too much space. Small water fountains that can sit on a table or shelf can also lend a natural touch and some sounds of water.
Create a cozy nook
You can pick a small spot in your house that is designated your own little relaxation zone. A corner somewhere that is small but big enough that you can feel comfortable there is ideal.
You are free to set it up in any way that will help you unwind. If you like to read, then a comfy chair surrounded by bookshelves will likely work out well. All you need then is to add a small table to set your coffee mug or glass of wine for while you read.
If you meditate, then set up an area that feels separate from the rest of your home with some natural elements to give it a grounded feel.
Or if you simply want to sit and close your eyes to think, a good chair and ottoman to prop up your feet may be enough. If you have a window to look out and watch the world pass by, then even better.
Keep it green
Bringing nature into your home is a great way to create a sanctuary type of feel. Plants do wonders for our physical and mental health. They clean the air and make it more breathable and oxygen-rich.
When the air is more pure, then we have more energy and can recharge after a long day. Plus, it also helps to create a calm space so you feel better about your life when you are surrounded by plants.
Put small trees or large potted plants in corners to remove some of the negative space in your room. Add succulents to shelves and a centerpiece of flowers and plants will round out the natural feeling.
Use relaxing colors
White can be calming to some people, so if you are one, then great. Keep your space clean and simple. Others need some color to wake up space and help them stay calm and focused.
Subtle colors are best so they are not too bold and become distracting. Light green can give some brightness while still being relaxing and not distracting. Likewise, a light blue evokes the seaside and can put you in a relaxed state of mind.
Use art
Once again, we should take a page out of nature’s book when it comes to art to help you relax. Avant-garde art is not going to work well when you want to clear your mind. What will work are natural colors and even works that incorporate nature into the theme.
Photographs with natural colors and even of landscapes that you can look at for hours are also good ideas to decorate with.
Conclusion
Everybody has their own idea of what is relaxing and can be very subjective. Even some unorthodox styles may help you relax, so take this list as inspiration and not as a guide you have to strictly follow.
Whatever way you set it up, it should be intentional and focused on what will make your mind clear and ready to take on another busy day.
