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10 Ways to Keep Your Calm in 2021

10 WAYS TO KEEP YOUR CALM IN 2021
 December 28, 2020 |  Home Decor, Just for Fun, Holiday, DIY |  organization, lighting, painting, bedroom, bathroom

To say that 2020 was a stressful year might be an understatement. According to recent studies, almost a third of Americans and Canadians say they experienced high levels of stress during the year. For a more laid-back 2021, try these home design tips to let go of your worries.

1. Let the light shine in.
Dark or dimly-lit spaces in your home can negatively impact your mood. Letting in more sunshine can boost your emotions and help you unwind after a long day. Sunlight is especially important during the shorter days of winter, which can cause Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Plus, Vitamin D is key for your immune system and natural lighting can increase your focus and take the strain off your eyes when reading or looking at screens.

2. Get your green thumb in gear.
Whether they’re fresh, dried or even faux, incorporating plants and flowers in your home can have a calming effect. It’s been found that greenery can significantly lower your stress levels. Their leaves also act as a natural humidifier that enhances your indoor air quality. If you don’t have enough sunny spots, there’s lots of plants that will be fine in lower lighting.

3. Better bedding, better dreams.
Your sheets and pillows play a role in how well you fall and stay asleep. 100% cotton with a sateen weave is very popular due to its feel. If you tend to overheat in the night, then a cooling option might be what you need. Depending on your sleeping position, the pillow you lay on dictates how well supported your head is. Side sleepers should go for a thicker pillow and stomach sleepers should go for something thinner, with back sleepers landing in the middle.

4. Use different scents to de-stress.
The sweet smell of your favorite candle or plug-in can be just the thing to slow you down from the day’s hustle. Scents like lemon and cinnamon can jump-start your brain while you’re working, whereas lavender and chamomile will give you a good night’s rest. However, be sure not to go overboard on the aromas. Burning candles for long periods of time can be dangerous and certain smells will start to overpower your nose.

5. Add in water fixtures for a zen feeling.
If you love the sound of falling rain or a babbling brook, then a small water feature in your home is what you need. Trickling water can soothe your ears and put you into a more meditative state. Just watching the flow of water can cause you to slow your breathing. Place fixtures in spaces where you normally like to relax to create a more serene environment.

6. Extra storage to organize your life.
Piles of laundry and other clutter can make it feel like you’re trapped in a box. Constructing some extra spots to corral your junk will clear space in your house and your head. You won’t be tripping over everything, and you’ll be able to easily find what you need.

7. Create your own meditation nook.
Whether you like to get lost in a good book or stare out at nature for hours, your own corner will help you escape. Find a place with good natural lighting that’s in a more secluded part of your home. You’ll be able to distance yourself from the regular business of the day and take time for yourself. Decorate your den with meditation pillows, art, photos and anything else that soothes you.

8. Incorporate more neutral colors into your design.
Colors impact our mood in a variety of different ways. Bright yellows can cheer you up and make you think of a sunny summer’s day, while dark grays can seem more serious and emotionless. While it’s good to have a splash of color in your life, too much can be overwhelming. Creams or tans create balance and promote tranquility. Add in simple designs so things won’t be as drab, and you’ll be feeling better in no time.

9. Surround yourself with scenes of happiness.
Reflecting back on happy memories instantly brightens up the day, and seeing reminders of these moments around your house will keep your spirits up. Hang photos of family and friends in each room of your house so you’re never without them. Even putting out small keepsakes from a joy-filled vacation will pick you up after a hard day.

10. Give yourself the spa treatment.
Your bathroom can be another place for you to block the stress of the outside world. Transform your tub into a place for you to wash away your stress. Place some candles around, and get the fluffiest towels that you can find. Some soft lighting and music will get you the most out of your moments of solitude.

Find your local National Property Inspections inspector today to schedule a full assessment of your home. NPI inspectors have the training, knowledge and expertise to document the condition of your home’s major systems.