In a world that seems to be getting busier and more hectic, creating a calm and peaceful home environment is more important than ever. This is reflected in the increasing popularity of Wabi Sabi and Japandi interiors. But there are also other ways to bring more peace into your home, without having to renovate or rebuild. Through smart interior choices and thoughtful decoration, we can transform our home into an oasis of peace and relaxation, where we can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Here are nine simple ways to create a calm and serene atmosphere in your home.
1. Minimize and organize
A tidy home makes for a tidy mind. Start by minimizing unnecessary items and organizing the items you keep. Use storage solutions like cabinets, baskets, boxes, and racks to neatly store everything. Choose to display only a few, carefully selected decorative items. A clean, organized space reduces visual stimuli and helps you focus and relax better.
2. Choose neutral colors
One of the most important aspects of a calm home environment is the choice of color. Soft, neutral colors such as white, beige, and light gray create a sense of calm and serenity. These colors reflect natural light and create a sense of space and lightness in a room. Care make your interior feel like one whole by adding accents in the same colour tones, such as cushions, rugs and decorative objects. This will enhance the feeling of peace and harmony.
3. Use natural materials
Natural materials such as wood, stone, cotton, wool and linen have soothing properties. These materials bring nature inside and create a sense of connection with the surrounding world. Consider using furniture and decorations made from these materials. By choosing sustainable and environmentally friendly materials, we not only create a better living environment for ourselves, but also contribute to the well-being of our planet.
Image via Instagram: Jim Dierckx | Cafeine
4. Create a natural environment
Adding plants to your interior can have a calming effect. Plants purify the air and bring a bit of nature into your home, which contributes to a relaxed atmosphere. If you don't have green fingers, choose low-maintenance plants such as succulents and cacti.
5. Mood lighting
The right lighting can significantly improve the atmosphere in your home. Opt for soft, warm lighting and avoid bright, harsh light sources that create a restless look. Dimmable lamps give you the flexibility to adjust the lighting to your mood. Also consider using decorative floor and table lamps as well as candles and oil lamps to create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Read more about how to add atmospheric lighting to your space here .
6. Soothing music
Music sets the mood and can do wonders for your mental well-being. For example, soothing music can reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. Whether you are working, reading, or just relaxing, soft music in the background can make a big difference. Choose instrumental music, nature sounds or meditation music to completely relax.
7. Aromatherapy
In addition to music, scent is an important mood setter in the home. It makes you happy and energetic. Consciously or unconsciously, we feel more comfortable in an environment that smells nice. With scented candles you can easily and quickly give your interior a fresh scent. Or opt for aromatherapy that uses essential oils from herbs, flowers and other plants. Use a diffuser to spread soothing scents such as lavender or eucalyptus throughout your home. Scents can evoke memories and create a sense of well-being.
8. Disconnect from technology
Technology can be a constant source of distraction and stress. Create moments in your day where you disconnect from your phone, tablet, and computer. This will help you truly relax and create a sense of calm in your home. Consider creating a technology-free zone in your home where you can relax without distractions.
Image via Instagram: Dave's Home
9. Create a zen space
A specific place in your home where you can relax without distractions is essential. This could be a corner of the living room, a patio, or even a comfy chair by a window. Make sure this place is free of clutter and furnished with comfortable furniture, soft blankets and pillows, and soft lighting. This will be your personal sanctuary where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
In short, by consciously choosing colours, materials and layouts that contribute to a sense of peace and tranquility, we can transform our home into a place where we can escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. A calm home environment is not only good for our mental health, but also ensures that we feel at home and can enjoy the peace and serenity that our home offers us.
