How to Create a Wellness Space in Your Home
Home, sweet home. Or hopefully anyway, because we’re spending a lot more time in our homes these days. That’s a good thing if your home is your haven, but not so good if your home is a center of stress. You can make your home more haven-ly by creating a wellness space to call your own.
What is a wellness space?
A wellness space is a spot where you can go to relax and unwind. This can be a dedicated room or a quiet corner of your home. You can also think outside the walls with a wellness space in your yard.
Here’s how to create a wellness space in your home:
Start Small
While you can apply wellness strategies to your entire home, pick one place to focus on first.
Start by avoiding the busy rooms in your home, like the kitchen or family room. Look for a quieter, out of the way spot, then think about how you’ll use the space. Is it for yoga, reading, meditation, or all the above? Maybe you want to sit and stare out a window or journal. These choices will help you decide on your next steps.
Declutter
Once you’ve found your quiet place, it’s time to declutter it. It’s hard to clear your mind when stacks of stuff are blocking your path.
Get rid of anything that detracts from the purpose of wellness and peace. This is a good practice for the rest of your home too, because clutter can add to feelings of chaos and stress.
Decorate
The key to a wellness space is choosing decor that speaks to you and brings a sense of calm. A comfy cushion in a corner could do the trick.
If you’re repurposing an entire room, choose a color palette and furnishings you love. Relaxing greens, blues, and neutral tones work well in a wellness space. Reds and yellows are more energizing.
When it comes to furnishings, keep it simple without being too sparse. Furniture with clean lines and surfaces free of clutter will serve you well. A space that’s too empty will not.
Add items without going overboard. The goal is a comfortable and inviting spot where you’ll want to spend some quality time.
The one thing that you should be sure to exclude is technology. Leave TVs, cellphones, and laptops out of your peaceful retreat. One exception might be headphones or earbuds to drown out noise and listen to music. And be sure to keep reminders of your to-do list or the outside world out of your peaceful space!
The Right Lighting
Natural lighting works best in a wellness space. If you can, pick an area with a window. Keep window treatments simple and open the shades or blinds. This will allow for more sunshine in your space. If this isn’t possible, consider lamps with a soft, warm glow. Candles are another soothing touch.
You also can go cutting edge with biorhythmic lighting, also called Human Centric Lighting (HCL). It mimics daylight in areas with little or no natural light. The light syncs with our natural body rhythms and can help regulate mood and improve sleep quality.
Bring the Outside In
A great way to cultivate wellness is through connecting with nature. If your wellness space is inside, add a touch of nature with greenery or flowers. Low-maintenance houseplants like ferns, peace lilies, or spider plants add color and can help clear the air. Choose nature-themed wall hangings or accessories that add to the natural vibe.
If your space is outside, choose native plants such as southern magnolia or coreopsis. You’ll want a secluded spot, preferably with an option for some shade.
Pamper Your Senses
Make your wellness retreat a soothing retreat by engaging all of your senses. We’ve already covered decor and touches of nature for the eyes, now let’s explore the others.
For the ears, running water, such as a small fountain, can be very relaxing. If you’re in a noisy home or neighborhood, a white noise machine can help drown out the din. If your setting is more peaceful, open a window to let in the sounds and scents of nature. Add calming scents like chamomile or lavender with essential oils, dried flowers, or candles.
Indulge your sense of touch with comfortable cushions, plush pillows, and soft throw blankets.
And don’t forget to revitalize your taste buds. Healthy snacks like dried fruits and nuts will keep you nourished; no refrigeration required. (Don’t feel guilty about hiding a piece of chocolate in your special place!) Fruit-infused water and herbal teas are refreshing ways to stay hydrated and healthy.
When you need to get away from it all, you don’t need to go far. Just walk to the wellness space in your home.
Self-care is an essential part of well-being. Time alone in your private enclave could be the best kind of self-care you can give yourself now. It may also give you the boost you need to get through the rest of your day.
Jennifer Li is a vegan, physical therapist and yoga instructor who writes about spiritual and wellness issues for both humans and their companions.
