It was like something out of a science-fiction movie. A global pandemic swept across the globe, confining us all to our homes and forcing us to eat, sleep and work in the same spaces each day. Undoubtedly, this experience has caused many of us to examine, if not transform, our relationship with our homes.

With many people struggling to cope with the stress and anxiety of self-isolation, coupled with the need to adapt to extra pressures such as working from home, home-schooling young children, and being separated from loved ones, the demand for mental health service soared. According to a survey by the U.S. Census Bureau, 42% of people reported symptoms of anxiety or depression in December 2020.*

As lockdowns have eased and lifted for most of the world, some important takeaways can be carried over from the experience when it comes to your place of dwelling and making it a safe place where you can feel peaceful and relaxed.

1. Color Schemes 

Color and emotions are closely linked. You can make your home feel more welcoming by introducing softer, warmer colors to your walls, cushion covers, and accessories.  Adding bold, vibrant colors to rooms such as your workout room will give it a more energetic feel.  Play around with colors to reflect and uplift the mood of your space.

2. Home Gardening

Gardening can be a therapeutic and nourishing way to release mental and emotional stress and has been a wonderful escape for many people over lockdown.  You can tend to your garden or even grow plants and flowers from your balcony or window sill. Introducing greenery and color to your home can give it a beautiful focal point, and the act of caring for, nurturing, and watching your plants grow can contribute to a sense of peace, satisfaction, and well-being.

3. Scents

Along with color, scents greatly influence mood and can help you to feel soothed, relaxed, and peaceful in your home.  A burst of citrus or peppermint can even invigorate the senses giving you a boost of energy in your study or workspace. Candles or essential oil diffusers can make a wonderful addition to any home helping to elevate the mood and create a sense of comfort in your surroundings.

4. Lighting

 Letting natural light into your home can do wonders for your mental health as well as lifting the mood of a room. Make your home space work for you by weaving in different lighting sources to suit your needs. Brighter light will help you focus and something softer will help when you want to relax. Welcome in the winter months with mood-enhancing lights. 

5. Tidiness

The state of your space often influences the state of your mind. Messy surroundings can make you feel cluttered and disorganized within so it’s important to keep your home tidy and ordered as much as possible.  Decluttering items such as old clothes and cleaning out drawers and cabinets can be a great place to start.

Your home will be an oasis of calm, tranquility, and relaxation in no time. Who knows, you may even welcome another lockdown!