Your surroundings have a lot more influence on your thoughts and feelings than you might think. In fact, studies have revealed that your perception of the beauty of your immediate environment is directly related to your wellbeing and overall health.
A beautiful, breathable and organised space is likely to make you feel inspired, revitalised and in control. Whereas a cluttered, careless and dim space is likely to make you feel the opposite. Arriving home from work to the latter isn’t going to lower your cortisol levels anytime soon. Instead, it can make you feel fatigued, stressed and unhappy. If you work from home, an inspiring (and ideally light-filled) space is especially important for productivity and creativity.
5 ways to make your space beautiful
#1 Gather inspiration for your dream space.
Endeavour to create an environment that expresses your inner world and simultaneously comforts, invigorates and inspires you. Gather inspiration for your dream spaces via an inspiration board (Pinterest is a wonderful tool to do so). It’s helpful to stick to a colour scheme and consider how these colours might influence your mood. If your room is dim, try choosing a lighter colour scheme and adding a mirror or two to brighten up your space. Making the most of the natural light entering your space and positioning furniture accordingly can really boost your mood.
#2 Decorate your space with objects that bring you happiness.
These objects could be anything from your favourite artworks, decorative pillows or rugs, books, crystals, elegant furniture, dried flowers, a salt lamp, a diffuser or plants. If you’re short on money, op shops are a great way to find unique treasures. It’s also great to decorate your space with DIY items. For example, you might like to paint an artwork (using your chosen colour scheme for the space) to hang on your wall or make up a vision board to pin on your wall for a daily dose of inspiration.
#3 Create a clean state.
Although it is so beneficial to decorate your space with objects that bring you joy, it is equally important to be discerning in your choices and reduce clutter. Challenge yourself to get rid of any unwanted or unnecessary objects. You could even sell some as a way to earn an extra income. This makes way for a more minimal, curated space. If you are having trouble parting with your possessions, research the work of Marie Kondo!
#4 Bring in a breath of fresh air with house plants.
Not only do they look lush and aesthetic in any space (from bedrooms to bathrooms), plants offer many psychological and physical benefits. They can improve your mood, lower stress and anxiety, enhance productivity and purify the air by absorbing pollutants. We are a part of nature and naturally feel so much better when we are surrounded by it.
#5 Diffusing essential oil is great for enhancing mood, relaxation and productivity.
Aromatherapy is based on the idea that organic scents can promote a better mental state. It is therefore worthwhile to invest in a diffuser to disperse the benefits of essential oils around your space. Depending on the oil that you choose, you can reap the benefits of reduced stress, improved immune health, heightened focus, increased energy, reduced airborne bacteria or better sleep.
Create a beautiful space that brightens your mood for a more productive, positive and happy life.