Relieve stress through home decor
Your physical space is just as important as your mental space.
The past couple of months have been nothing short of stressful, and while quarantine measures have eased up, many still opt to stay home due to the rising number of COVID-19 cases in the country.
While there isn’t much we can do with the restrictions set in place, one thing you can control is your home-slash-working environment. If you’re in need of some de-stressing, these simple home design hacks will allow for a cozier and positive environment - check them out:
1. Add some greenery in the area
Studies have shown that the color green, particularly shades similar to nature, has a calming effect on people. This color relates to balance and harmony, which is why it is a good idea to incorporate foliage into your homes.
However, some might perceive taking care of a plant to be intimidating. But with the help of this Gardening-at-Home Kit, you’ll be a plantita or a plantito in no time.
2. Create Warmth Through Lighting
Ever wondered why many 5-star hotels use yellow lights versus cool white bulbs? The warm lighting is actually said to promote relaxation, which is why it is often used in bedrooms. The warm tones help relax the mind and body as it prepares for rest or relaxation, while cooler tone lighting makes individuals more alert, and therefore are better for productivity purposes.
That said, switch out any cool white and fluorescent bulbs in your resting area for warmer lighting and you’ll notice the difference in your resting habits almost immediately.
3. Light Up Some Candles (preferably scented!)
Similar to how yellow lights evoke warmth, you can expect candles to do the same. Candlelights have a calming effect on the mind, which then relaxes the rest of the body. As much as possible, use scented candles for additional relaxation - lavender being a popular scent of choice!
For something even more therapeutic, we recommend creating your own candles at home. Not only is it a calming activity, it is also very simple to do, especially with a Soy Candle Making Kit. This DIY candle kit includes all the basic tools you need, plus a free online class to learn the step-by-step instructions.
4. Hang Artworks In Your Wall
You can never go wrong with framed artworks - especially if it’s something you love! Art is different for everyone, so if you find a piece that you love or you are able to connect with, get it framed and find a place for it on your wall. Be sure to hang it eye-level too!
Want art of your own? You can easily book yourself an Acrylic Painting Kit and Class right from the comfort of your homes. Not only would this be a relaxing project for you to try, it’ll be great for design purposes, too!
5. Fill up the space with rugs
Much like how you want to decorate your walls with beautiful paintings, rugs are considered art for the floor. Adding rugs to your bedrooms and living rooms will not only make the space livelier but a lot more cosier with the ‘lived in’ feel it provides.
6. Let your favorite scent roam the air
One way to instantly make a place feel like home is by filling the space with scents you love and that remind you of comfort. For some, the smell of freshly baked cookies or vanilla reminds them of home, while others prefer musky or floral scents. Whatever scent you choose, make sure it’s one you would love coming home to!
7. Decorate With Books
For those whose homes are primarily decorated with neutral colors, books are a great way to add a pop of color in your rooms while still providing style and function. It’s also a great way to express your personality in your space through the stories that have touched your heart, made you laugh, inspired or moved you.
You can also check out our list recommended travel books that will take you around the world right from the comfort of your home. Maybe one of these can become your new favorite!
8. Add Wood
More than metals and glass, wood incorporates more warmth into spaces. You can explore adding a wooden table, chair, a framed wooden mirror on your wall to increase the cozy factor of your home.
9. Declutter
No amount of scented candles, rugs and books will make your resting environment cozy or environment if you’ve got piles of mess lying around! Before bringing in new pieces into your home, declutter first. Keep Marie Kondo’s advice in mind and get rid of anything that no longer sparks joy!
10. Play Some Music
After you’ve done all the refurnishing, redecorating and decluttering, finish it off with your music of choice. Spotify offers a ton of playlists for every mood, so we’re sure you’ll find one that’ll lift your spirits whether you’re destressing or focusing on work.
