In today’s hectic times, we look to our homes to provide us with the solace and relaxation we crave. Creating a nurturing environment where we can unwind and recharge is key to wellness and mental health. Yet it can be tricky knowing where to start.
According to the team at Metricon Homes, Australia’s number-one home builder, you only need to make a few small adjustments to bring an effortless flow and calm into your home. Here are their tips to creating a more mindful home.
1. Soothing colours matter
Research shows that colour can have significant impact on our mood, so choosing the right paint hues for your home can be an essential step to creating that sanctuary-like atmosphere. As a guide, cool colours (blue, green and lilac) exude subtlety and a tranquil feel, while warmer tones (reds, yellows and terracotta) will add bursts of joy and conjure up Mediterranean holiday vibes. For an effortless flow in your home, choose earthy tones (creams, greys and browns) and avoid drastic colour changes between rooms.
2. Lighten your space
Sunshine on our skin, streaming through our windows, brightening up our homes and lives… Take full advantage of the areas of your home with the most natural light by rearranging your furniture to create nooks where you can soak up the morning or afternoon sun while reading or relaxing. On dreary, bleak days, create a mindful space with the soothing glow of table lamps and wall sconces.
3. Bring the outdoors in
Incorporating natural elements like indoor plants and green tones into our homes is an easy way to boost joy and mindfulness. If you prefer a coastal vibe, decorate with white-washed timbers, shells and salvaged pieces of driftwood for that beachy feel. Missing that green thumb? There are plenty of ways to add foliage and greenery into your space minus the high maintenance. Succulents and palms are two easy-to-care-for additions that will instantly infuse peace and happiness into your home.
4. Create distinct boundaries
Working from home has its perks but also makes it difficult to maintain a healthy work-life balance. The key is to create distinct boundaries between where you work and where you live. Ideally, that would mean having a dedicated home study or office with a door that you can close to clock off each day. If that’s not an option, try to make a conscious effort to put away your laptop or invest in a closable lid desk. It will help keep the pull of unanswered emails at bay.
5. Entice with scents
Yes, the visual aesthetics of our homes go a long way to creating those calming vibes, but don’t underestimate the power of all your senses – particularly smell – to act as a happiness trigger. Try dotting your home with scented candles to suit every mood or adding essential oil diffusers into chill-out zones. A vase filled with your favourite fragrant flowers or a potted herb in a drab corner will waft grounding scents around the room – and be the secret decor ingredient that your mindful home needs.
6. Don’t skimp on texture
So you’ve committed to all things Zen and clutter-free, but that doesn’t mean cold, stark and empty. Textures are the simplest way to add a sense of warmth and relaxation to any space. Think woven cushions, soft, luxurious throws and textured rugs. These small touches are budget-friendly and will create a cosy, inviting, cocoon-like room that you’ll be itching to retreat to and disconnect from all your worries.
Brought to you by Metricon Homes. Check out the website for more mindful design and decor ideas, and while you’re there, visit the video gallery to swoon over the display homes from the comfort of your couch.