6 Steps to Creating a Modern Space that Enhances Your Mood

We’re exposed to so many stressful situations on a day-to-day basis, from rush hour traffic to conflict at the office. Your home should be an oasis from the chaos of the outside world. Take the following steps to create an inspiring, modern space that helps you unwind, fuels your creativity, and promotes general wellbeing.

Clear Out the Clutter

Clearing clutter is one of the main principles of feng shui for a reason. An organized home fosters a peaceful mind. Go through your home, room-by-room and assess what you really need or want, what can be thrown in the trash or recycled, and what can be donated. You may to recruit a friend who won’t have the same sentimental attachment to your possessions as you to help give you an objective perspective. Your home doesn’t have to be barren, just be thoughtful about the items you choose to keep. Prioritize items that will make you happy like family photos, cherished antiques, and mementos from vacations. Ultimately, it will be easier to keep your home clean and you’ll be able to relax at home without seeing stacks of old magazines or a closet jam-packed with clothes!

Maximize Natural Light

As we learn more about Seasonal Affective Disorder, it has become clear that our mood is greatly influenced by our exposure to natural light. Having access to natural light regulates our melatonin levels–which affect our ability to sleep, and our serotonin levels–which affect our alertness and create an elevated mood. This natural sleep and wake cycle, or our circadian rhythm is directly linked to a strong immune system, ability to fight off disease, as well as hunger and propensity for obesity. Ditch the blackout curtains and allow yourself to wake up with the sun. You’ll find yourself much less groggy in the morning. You may even be able to cut back on the caffeine!

Be Mindful of Color

Incorporating color in your home isn’t just about design. It can also have a large impact on your mood. Color psychologists (yes, that’s a field!) believe that certain colors influence your ability to perform certain activities. Green can promote concentration, so it is often recommended for home offices. Whereas blues, greens, and lavenders can have a soothing effect, perfect for bedrooms to help you get a restful night of sleep.

Incorporate Spa-like Elements

You don’t have to travel to a resort and spend a lot of money to recharge your batteries. Instead, consider incorporating spa-like elements into your home. Whether it’s a deep jacuzzi tub flanked by aromatherapy candles or an extra bedroom transformed into a peaceful meditative space. Keep these spaces clean, scented with fresh natural herbs like rosemary or lemongrass, and illuminated with warm light to create the perfect in-home getaway to leave you relaxed and refreshed.

Bring the Outside In

Did you know that certain plants can help purify the air in your home? The spider plant, garden mum, peace lily, and aloe vera all all easy to grow and help remove dangerous chemicals such as xylene, formaldehyde, benzene, and ammonia from your home. Incorporating houseplants into your home is also a great solution for those who are short on outdoor green space.

Limit Electronic Disturbances

This is a tough one for most of us. We spend so much of our day focused on various screens from the GPS system in our car, to our phones, televisions, and laptops. The light and sound from these devices does little to soothe our senses though and typically leaves you overstimulated and unable to relax or sleep. If having a television is important to you, place it in a cabinet where you can store it away. Also consider putting away all electronic devices (and dimming lights to mimic natural light) at least two hours before you are ready to sleep. Unwind with a great novel or your favorite magazine. Reading is a helpful activity for your brain and will help you naturally prepare for a restful night of sleep.

Via Bryn Huntpalmer, Modernize.com