How to Design the Perfect Space for Your Wellbeing
The way we curate interior design is subjective. What works for your taste may not work for others. However, when it comes to our wellbeing, there are certain design trends that tend to make a difference in everyone’s lives. In fact, there is a whole science dedicated to understanding how humans interact with the space around them, which is known as neuroarchitecture.
As humans, our bodies and minds react to various environmental and architectural forms in different ways. This is the drive behind neuroarchitecture and the study purports that every asset of our home, from the air we breathe to the light we see, ultimately has an effect upon our emotions, meaning that, while not everyone will be pleased with a polka dot chair, having a room that welcomes plenty of natural light tends to make people feel calmer.
To give you an idea of how your emotions are affected by the space you live in, as well as some ideas to inspire your next renovation, here are the key areas by which a home affects our wellbeing.
Steer Yourself From the Screen
The internet can be stressful and, perhaps worse, it can be addictive. Having a blue light glowing in our face keeps us awake, mimicking the light from the sun and tricking our brains into staying active. Keeping up to date with social media and events is also, certainly this year, draining. And yet, despite this, we still arrange ourselves and homes around the screen. Our furniture is often set to face our televisions and our bed is close enough to a plug that we can use our phone at night while it charges.
However, it doesn’t have to be this way. For a sense of freedom and to improve your quality of sleep, make sure that you design your rooms away from the screen. Instead, encourage your space to be built around plants and calming designs, anything that allows your brain to switch off and relax, without returning to stimulation.
Build a Separate Space
Having a space that is entirely separate, one that is dedicated to relaxing, is incredibly good for the mind. Not only does it allow you to escape but it is a resource to support you when you’re feeling troubled. Some people find solace in a reading nook while others hide in their own private log cabins. No matter what type of space you need, having one that allows you to shut the door and recharge is incredibly valuable.
Welcome Nature
Hospitals with views of nature have been shown to improve patient mood and recovery, and it’s understandable why; plants help us to feel great. By welcoming them into your home, caring for them and surrounding yourself with their vibrant colour, they will reward you with improved wellbeing.
They don’t even have to be alive either. Many homeowners are now bringing dried flowers into their living spaces, decorating with organic materials and complementing calming tones with natural colours.
Conceal Your Clutter
Minimalism is wonderful and, as many proponents will tell you, it brings about happiness. However, for many of us, especially those with children, it’s not entirely realistic. There is, however, a middle ground. Getting clever with your storage and concealing your belongings inside surreptitious and concealed spaces is demonstrated to relieve us of stress. As the saying goes, tidy space, tidy mind.