Learn how to turn any nook in your home into a calming relaxation space with these simple, budget-friendly self-care sanctuary tips.
Life is busier and more hectic than ever! Kids, grandkids, significant others, and roommates all coming and going, traffic congestion, lines at the store, rushing to meetings, sports practices, and school events. If this all sounds familiar, read on!
The stress from today’s fast-paced, cluttered, and often chaotic world takes a toll on our mental and physical health. There have been well-documented increases in anxiety, chronic pain, and high blood pressure. Last I checked there is no easy remedy to make the busyness go away. However, learning to manage it and lessen the negative impacts on our health is probably the “medicine” we all need.
Finding a way to relax and experience a “Calgon, take me away” moment isn’t just a daydream, it’s key to maintaining our mental and physical wellbeing. So, where can we begin to build relaxation into our routine and improve our health? Where everything else begins, at home!
The importance of creating a home that encourages relaxation cannot be overstated. Our homes are our sanctuary, a place for us to find rejuvenation and peace. By intentionally cultivating a mindful home and creating a relaxation space, we can support and promote our own emotional and physical well-being as well as foster mental clarity.
Relaxation spaces are much more than just a trendy aesthetic decision. By being intentional in the design and use of a relaxation space you can create a sanctuary that supports improved mental and physical wellbeing for everyone in your household.
The good news is it doesn’t take a dedicated room, a lot of space or money and does not require remodeling! Here are four simple steps for creating a self-care sanctuary within your existing footprint.
Health Benefits of Relaxation:
- Improved sleep
- Reduced cortisol levels
- Improved focus
- Lowering of blood pressure
1. Define the Space
An ordinary space can be transformed into a sanctuary by adding calming elements, comfortable seating, and personal touches. Look around the home with an intentional eye to try and find a nook or quiet corner with relaxation in mind. Avoid high traffic paths and areas, maybe find an unused corner in the bedroom or dining room, or a nook under the stairs or in the basement, maybe an unused closet.
If there is natural light, great, but if not, there are many lighting options that create a calming mood. Use soft, warm lighting or dimmable lights or LED strips. Lamps are a great way to create a softer glow and floor lamps eliminate the need for a table. If there is too much natural light, sheer curtains can help soften it. Curtains or panel screens can be used to help dampen noise or create separation and small tables or bookshelves can store meditation tools or books.
2. Take a Seat
Next, once you find your space, create comfortable seating. There are a variety of ways to accomplish this from using a chair and footstool that has storage inside, or adding floor cushions and pillows to the space. Layer in blankets and pillows that are soft and in calming colors such as blues and greens. A simple bookshelf or wall shelves can help keep things organized and eliminate the need for a table. Just a few key pieces of furniture, don’t overcrowd the space since clutter can add to stress, the opposite of the goal!
3. Natural and Personal Touches
Low maintenance plant choices include: Boston Ferns, Spider Plants, Golden Pothos, Snake Plants, English Ivy and Peace Lillies.
Add personal items that promote calm and peace such as books, diffusers with essential oils (eucalyptus, peppermint, lemon), or other items that promote relaxation. Be mindful about what you add and the colors you choose since maintaining a sense of calm, peace, and relaxation is the goal.
The final touch is to bring nature indoors by adding a natural element; a small water feature, some crystals or seashells, or a houseplant are all good choices for creating a peaceful layer of visual enhancement.
4. Make Relaxation Part of Your Routine
A well-appointed relaxation space won’t make any difference if it isn’t used regularly. We need to make the time to “indulge” ourselves in self-care. By creating rituals in our daily lives we can learn to carve out the necessary time for ourselves.
To build relaxation into your daily life, commit to using the space at the same time each day. Perhaps you can start with ten minutes every morning for a few stretches and meditation or you could simply sit quietly for an afternoon tea. By establishing daily practices, you create the ritual of encouraging consistent self-care in a sanctuary you created! Happy relaxing!
From the thrill of being a first time home buyer, or finding a perfect space for that next phase of life, to downsizing or building your retirement home for your golden years, Carla Rae has experienced it all! What is your dream and how can she support you in turning that dream into reality? Niche Homes is a full-service real estate agency specializing in Wasatch Front neighborhoods and enclaves. Contact us if you are interested in buying or selling a home.
