Over time, the different home spaces set the stage for important moments in our lives. That’s why it’s crucial that each of them be comforting, supportive, and provide us with positive emotional energy.
Everything in our home triggers an emotional response, from how we furnish and paint it to how we organize our belongings. All of this together significantly impacts our sense of security and well-being.
Good interior design tailored to each individual’s personal history and emotions is a proven way to promote good mental health. When used correctly, each design element can create an environment conducive to reducing stress, anxiety, and depression.
Here are some tips that will help you make sure that the interior design of your home positively affects your mental health:
- Get rid of clutter. Clutter is the enemy of serenity. Go through your possessions and give away, donate, or throw away clothes, kitchen gear, artwork, furniture, or other items you don’t use, like, or have room for. Doing this will increase your sense of control and reduce anxiety.
- Reconsider your layout. Take a look at the form of the different rooms in your home and ask yourself: can you get into and out of the room quickly? Does the space feel calm and serene or overstuffed and messy? Once you’ve thought about this, get creative and try new layouts, you’ll be amazed at how beneficial it can be for your mental health.
- Let in more light. Sunlight activates us and allows the production of serotonin, the happiness hormone. So, the more light you let in, the better spirits you’ll have. And if you have a naturally dark room, use mirrors, reflective surfaces, or small objects with shiny surfaces to amplify sunlight and give the room the illusion of more light.
- Invest in plants and flowers. Houseplants and flowers have a wide range of physical and mental health benefits. Creating green spaces in your home will help you breathe better, physically and psychologically.
- Use natural elements. Bringing in natural elements such as wood, stone, metal, fire, or water is a sure way to bring calm to any space.
- Evaluate the color of the room. Evaluate the color of each of the rooms, and if it doesn’t “fit,” change it. You’ll be surprised how a color update in one area will significantly improve the overall feel of the space.
- Add a touch of art. Empty spaces can be depressing, so opt to add decorative elements. Art doesn’t have to be big or expensive to bring you joy. Find items that speak to you and fit with the way you live and the way you want to feel in your home.
