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If you’re feeling worn out, you’re hardly alone. In 2017, the American Psychological Institute found that 61% of Americans cited work as one of the most common sources of stress. And it’s not just a mental problem, either. In 2014, they also found that 77% of people regularly experienced physical symptoms from stress.
Each day, many of us feel overwhelmed and battered by the responsibilities we’re dealing with, and creating space to step away from these issues can do wonders for our mental and physical well-being.
When it’s time to unwind, you should find a space that lets you fully relax. Your home is your sanctuary, a space where you’re safe from the stress and pressures of daily life. To accomplish this, almost anyone can — and probably should — set aside some space to relax.
Here’s how you can create a space for self-care in your home. Feel free to expand on them and experiment, mixing and matching until your new sanctuary fits your unique needs.
1. Embrace Soothing Scents
Do you enjoy the rich scent of a bonfire on a summer night? Maybe you prefer the subtle aroma of sandalwood. You have many options when you’re choosing the best fragrance for the space, whether you favor flowers, sandy beaches or your own combination of complementary candles.
What you decide doesn’t matter, as long as you enjoy it. After all, you’re making a room for yourself, and if you adore patchouli, then you shouldn’t hesitate to buy patchouli.
If you’re unsure what scents calm you down, here are a few more popular choices:
- Lavender
- Lemon
- Jasmine
- Cinnamon
2. Furnish the Floor With Plush Rugs
Building on the previous point, you should focus on the sensory aspects of your self-care space. Whether you hop back to the 70s with a soft shag rug or opt for something a little more modern, plush area rugs both contribute to a sense of visual coziness and give your feet something soft to enjoy.
Soft, plush rugs are available in almost every color, size, shape and pattern, which allows you to personalize your space however you see fit. You’ll surely find something that suits your other design choices, whether you have a bright, bold room with vibrant colors or a more subdued space.
3. Mellow out With Mood Lighting
Mood lighting is an easy addition that can help you quickly transition to a relaxed mindset. As you create a space for self-care at home, set aside time to research dimmers and different bulbs. When you find the perfect balance — not too bright and not too dark — you’ll feel perfectly content.
Whether you opt for draped fairy lights, smart lamps or dimmer switches, you’ll be able to transition any room into a relaxing space with the flick of a switch. It’s the perfect way to unwind after spending hours under the harsh overheads at your office.
4. Make the Most of Your Backyard
It isn’t necessary to confine your self-care space to the interior of your home. Some people prefer the beauty of the outdoors, with birdsong, sunshine and fresh air. If you’re more comfortable in your backyard, you should create an outdoor space with plenty of natural light.
Homeowners like yourself have invested in everything from lovely gardens to fully-designed pergolas. If the thought of hanging in a hammock or resting near a fire pit appeals to you, consider drawing inspiration from a larger project. Outdoor living space can be the perfect step away from your hectic everyday life.
Here are some fun ideas for outdoor self-care:
- Hang a hammock on your patio or between trees
- Invest in lounge chairs for sun-kissed spaces
- Enjoy the relaxing sounds of a running water feature
- Add shade for the perfect outdoor reading nook
5. Incorporate Indoor Greenery
Houseplants have proven value for human health and wellness, with purifying properties that clean the air and reduce fatigue. Beyond these benefits, they bring color and life to a space, making it feel far more natural and inviting. All it takes is a short trip to your local greenhouse.
As you browse your options, consider succulents or cacti. Their wide variety of sizes and shapes make them an attractive — and manageable — addition to almost any room. If you want to create a calm and peaceful environment, few other options are as effective as indoor greenery.
Create a Space for Self-Care
Self-care is an ambiguous term, so you shouldn’t feel the need to adhere to any strict guidelines. Whether you need a relaxing outdoor space or a quiet man-cave, self-care is ultimately a very personal and flexible concept. But if you’re not sure where to start, these design principles to help you jump into this project right away.
Your home is your sanctuary, and you should have a space that reflects it. Whether your self-care involves candles, mood lighting and indoor greenery or an outdoor pergola where you can rest and relax beneath the open sky, you have a wealth of great options.