I recently learned about the beautiful concept of Shinrin-yoku, which is a Japanese practice that translates to “forest bathing.” The forest emits compounds that have a positive effect on humans to reduce the stress hormone. Though it is not the same as being in a forest, how can we bring this sense of being outdoors and wellness into our homes?
3 tips to increase a sense of wellness in your home:
1. Bring in the natural light!
If you have dark drapes, consider swapping them out for a lighter style. Change out your lightbulbs to a bulb with a color rendering index (CRI) of 80+, close to the color of natural light. You will want to replace all the lightbulbs in a room to ensure the same and consistent tint of light. Consider purchasing dimmable bulbs to control the amount of light in a room during different times of the day.
2. Color impacts how you feel.
The concept of color therapy has been around for a long time. The effects of color on how we feel generally depend on us personally, our cultural background, and our physical situation. Blue has been shown to “increase alertness and performance” and increase the sense of quality and trustworthiness. Some argue, blue offers a sense of calm; perhaps this is because of how we feel when we look at a blue sky or Caribbean ocean. Whatever the reason, color impacts how you feel when you walk into a room. I always ask, “What colors do you like?” Then we work with the different hues in a palette, working with the light you have in a room.
To correctly choose a paint color for a room, you will want to see that color throughout the “natural” cycle of the day. For example, if it is an east-facing room, you will receive morning light, and it will be darker the rest of the day. When I help clients choose a color, I order them color samples to view in the room and see if it goes well with the accessories and the light cycle.
3. Bring the smell of nature – indoors!
Add fresh flowers, seasonal bulbs, rosemary, or lavender plants. You can create an arrangement using floral tape, any favorite flowers, clippings from bushes or trees in your yard, and any container of your choice.
Use a diffuser with essential oils to add a scent of nature to your room. Finding quality essential oils can be tricky. To understand what to look for and what to avoid, click here.
Being comfortable in your home is more important than ever, and your space should bring you joy and comfort. If you need help pulling a color palette together or formulating a different use of space plan, call me at 610-955-8202 or email for a consultation!
By Debbie Correale, Redesign Right, LLC. Stay connected on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Houzz, and Pinterest. Featured photo licensed from Shutterstock.