While there are many ways to take care of our mental health, like healthy eating, exercise, leisure time, spending time with loved ones, or engaging in our hobbies, we can’t ignore the impact of the spaces where we practically live. If you truly care about stress free living, your home and workplace deserve just as much attention. They affect our mental health in ways that we often don’t really think about.
Our space reflects us, it makes us feel belonged and creates a shift in our mood. That is why our surrounding should be optimised for stress free living.
And that doesn’t require splurging at all. Just a few tweakings is all you need to create a space that can do wonders for your mental well-being.
How to Optimize Your Space for Stress Free Living
Say NO to Clutter
Your space is a reflection of your state of mind and vice-versa. And that is how, a clean space fosters an undisturbed mind. A well tidy and organised space, not only saves you from overwhelming stressful situations, like looking for your keys or fidgeting through the pile of papers on your desk. But it also improves your ability to complete tasks efficiently. Thus, have you more focused and free from distractions.
On the other hand, if the space around us is scattered, our mental space will also feel the same. That’s why, if you want to optimize your space for stress free living, saying no to clutter is the first step.
If you are ready to declutter, you need to first start with setting a dedicated time for that. Afterwards, bring everything out at once; get rid of what you don’t need and then put rest back in place where they belong. Set a dedicated place for everything to have it all organised.
Bring in Sunlight
Why does it feels so good basking in the sun? Why the warmth of spring sun is such an mood uplifter? Well, beyond being a sole natural source of vitamin D, sun has an incredible effect on our mental well-being.
Exposure to sun releases serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that mediates satisfaction, happiness and optimism. Hence, a fair good reason to have abundance of sunlight in your home as well as work place.
Keep the curtains open throughout the day. Move your workplace as close to the window as possible. And if that’s not possible then try sitting facing the window. You can also keep some artificial light on your desk to give you a feel of bright sunlight. These small changes can make a noticeable difference in creating a stress free living environment.
Welcome Nature
Just think about taking a walk in a forest and how does the greenery make you feel. Plants surely have a calming effect on mind, and that is why being around them act as a natural stress buster. Plants don’t need to be in a garden for you to experience their benefits, just give them some space in your house and your work desk.
This selfless form of life does not only gives you a serene experience but it also improves your focus thereby increasing your productivity. Bringing nature indoors is one of the simplest ways to create a space for stress free living.
Invest in some low maintenance indoor plants like aloe vera, snake plant, palm or bamboo. In addition to plants, you can also add nature in the form of decor, paintings and photographs. And if there is more room then try adding other elements of nature like wood, stones, water features etc. Nature can take any form in closed spaces.
Give Your Personal Touch
Whether it’s your work desk or your living room. You should feel connected to that place. It should give you a sense of belonging. Because that is your place. We humans are at our best when we are in our own world. And that is why the place where you belong should have your personal touch.
There is no right or wrong way to do that! Anything that reflects you and your life can be placed in your space. For example, family photographs that always bring a smile on your face, a souvenir from your dream destination, artwork created by you or gifted by a loved one, or quotes that resonate your thoughts.
So that when you look at them you automatically feel blissful. These little personal touches can help create a calm home environment and contribute to stress free living.
Our goal is not to never get stressed, because that’s impossible. Our goal is to bounce back from the place that helps you recharge and keep you focused in the zone.
"Create space simply to 'be' and clarity emerges for you to see." - Gabriella Goddard