How to make your home into a sanctuary
In our new reality, our homes have become more important than ever. Now they’re not just a place to lay our head, it is our everything; our home office, our gym and our chill-out zone.
So instead of our homes feeling like a sort of prison, it’s important to make them feel cosy, safe and like our own little sanctuary.
Use aromatic emotional anchoring
Aromatic Emotional Anchoring is a technique for creating or changing an associated feeling with the help of scent. Have you ever smelled a perfume and it instantly reminded you of a past holiday or an old friend? Your brain has anchored that scent to a time or person
Have a think: What scents do you love? What relaxes you or makes you feel safe?
Tap into the power of your favourite essential oils, candles or incense. Use them during your morning or night routines to ground and calm, or use an energising scent when you need to pep up.
Cosy textures make any space feel lush
Mmm how comforting is your fave snuggly blanket or soft pillow?! Add to your space textures that will make your home feel comforting and luxurious. Choose a faux fur throw, soft cushions or a comfy bean bag. For something extra, try a weighted blanket that not only feels good but can help to calm our nervous system.
Create a sacred space
Having a specific spot in your home solely for yourself is vital. It enables you to have the space away from anyone else to find some quiet and connect back to yourself. It can be anywhere; a corner in your bedroom, the balcony or perhaps your walk-in wardrobe. This is your space to do anything that makes you feel good; journal, meditate, do yoga, stretch or just space to breathe. Try to go there once a day for some important alone time.
Turn up the volume on your fave tunes
Sound can be a great way to switch up the vibes. Consider what sounds help you to feel safe and connected. Start your own Spotify playlist or save some great creations from other listeners.
Let the natural light in
Natural light especially in the morning is vital for your body, so open up those shades and let the light stream in baby! Exposure to natural light can help our bodies to produce Vitamin D, can improve our circadian rhythm and sleep pattern, and can even make us happier.
When the sun is down and you need some extra light, opt for something soft like a Himalayan Salt Lamp. Salt lamps are known to improve air quality, boost our mood due to the negative ions and could help with sleep.
Set some boundaries and create a dedicated workspace
If you’re working from home and still don’t have a dedicated workspace, now is the time to change your situation! It’s hard for you to switch off when you’re couch is both the office and your chill zone. It doesn’t need to take up a huge space - it could be a little corner desk in your bedroom or a little stand-up desk in your dining room. If you can’t have your own dedicated zone, ensure that you can pack your office up each day, so it’s out of sight out of mind.
Add some greenery to your space
Not only do plants add that finishing touch to your decor, but they can also help you to clean the air and help us to feel more relaxed. Fun fact: research by NASA has revealed that houseplants can remove up to 87 per cent of air toxins in 24 hours.
If you’re a plant newbie, opt for something that’s hard to kill like a Snake Plant or Devils Ivy.
De-clutter to de-stress
If you’re spending all your time in your home, having a messy space can create a negative impact on your mental health. Take the time every three months for a deep clean. Yes, Marie Kondo-ing everything was trendy years ago, but it’s for a reason.
Hoarding things that don’t bring you joy is not a great vibe. Look around your lounge, kitchen, bedrooms and more, and see what you haven’t used in the last twelve months and then donate, trash or sell.