candleholders-791154_1280

Creating a relaxing home design to combat stress

With almost one in five Americans suffering from an anxiety disorder, it’s clear that we have too much stress in our lives. One place we should be able to get away from it all and feel safe and relaxed is home, but all too often chaotic and badly organized home environments just add to the problem. What do you need to know to create a space that really puts you at ease? Achieving this is easier than you might think.

apartment-406901_1280

Keep it simple

One thing that inevitably adds to stress is clutter. A minimalist approach to design means you won’t feel crowded and you won’t always be thinking about what needs to be cleaned. The human brain is naturally wired to appreciate order and symmetry, so clean lines and a simple style that makes use of coordinated and matching items is naturally relaxing. Well-designed minimalist homes have plenty of hidden storage so you can still have the things you want to hand without having things in your way.

Light and color

A major source of stress in modern life is a disrupted body clock, caused by our work schedules and environments. Having a room that lets in lots of natural light can go some way toward remedying this problem, so do away with those heavy drapes and fit some DIY plantation shutters to make the most of your windows. Decorating your room in neutral tones will help it look lighter, while soft blues and greens have been shown to have a calming effect on the brain. Have a variety of lamps in your rooms so you can adjust the strength and tone of artificial light at night.

iphone-791450_1280

Soft and soothing textures

Texture matters in a calming home, because of the way it affects the quality of light and because of the way it feels against our skin. Natural wooden floors can work as well as carpets, but soft rugs add a welcoming touch and soft sofas are wonderful to sink into. Flowing drapes around your bed can be both soothing and romantic. Try to avoid having too many metal or plastic surfaces or fabrics made from shiny artificial fibers.

Natural elements

Sticking with natural elements is a great way to create a calming atmosphere in your home. Natural wood and stone can look beautiful and be very practical. Antiqued wood can add a touch of rustic charm, especially in the kitchen. Best of all, though, is to bring plants into your home. Their scents as well as their appearance have a relaxing effect. They will make your home feel summery even when the weather outside is grim, so you can imagine you’re in a garden, untouched by the seasons.

Having a calming place to relax in when you get home can have real benefits for your health, improving your psychological wellbeing and also helping to protect you from a number of physical ailments including heart disease, stroke and some cancers. It’s well worth making a bit of effort now so life can feel easier in future.