Top Tips For Creating Calm & Cosy Spaces

Posted on - 27th April 2020

As we all stay at home for the foreseeable future, it’s important for us to have spaces to chill out and unwind. This is even more important when working from home, as it’s often quite difficult to switch off after your shift when you’re living in the same place you’re working.

Having a spot in your home, no matter how big or small, that is calm and cosy is one stop to proactively ensure you take some time out for you. Self-care is vital as we navigate our way through these strange and unprecedented times, and taking time out is a great way to do it. Here are just a few ways you can repurpose spaces in your home for just that. Whether you’re into mindful meditation or just need to escape the screens, read on some for restful inspiration!

5 Ways To Carve Out Spaces Of Calm At Home

Banish The Screens

Find a space that is out of the way and clear of screens. And then leave your phone at the door. This could be in your bedroom, in a spare room, or anywhere really. The point is to reserve yourself a screen free space that’s devoid of any technology whatsoever.

It’s probably fair to say that, right now, we’re spending more time on our laptops, tablets and phones. And everyday we’re bombarded with news and information about the current situation, which can be stressful or cause a significant amount of anxiety.

To have a space you can visit that is quiet and free of all of these distractions will allow you to have some much needed downtime without getting reeled back into the virtual world when a notification arrives. Put your phone in another room, either switched off or on silent, and leave it there for as long as you need.

Reserve Your Spot

We know that family homes in particular can be chaotic. Especially right now. Whether you are furloughed and trying to homeschool or you’re juggling work and childcare, it can be extremely difficult to find a moment of calm and zen for yourself.

If you can, find a spot and make it your own. It doesn’t have to be huge, and it doesn’t have to be permanent either. Maybe a stack of cosy cushions in front of the living room window or a space in your bedroom where you can enjoy a quiet cup of tea and a chapter of your latest book. The point is to reserve a spot that is yours for relaxing in and make a habit of doing just that. Over time, as you do this, your brain will associate this space with winding down.

Make Your Bedroom A Work Free Zone

It can be tempting to bring your laptop into the bedroom and work from there, but try not to if you can. While some people don’t have the luxury of additional rooms and may be to out of necessity, if you are able to work from a spare room or your kitchen table then do that instead. Your bedroom is supposed to be a place of sanctuary, where you wind down and sleep away from the distractions of the day.

The last thing you want is to start associating this supposed space of zen with work, so keep it sacred if you can!

Tidy Up

Tidying up for some people can be a great way to unwind and relax. But for others it’s most definitely the opposite. However, having tidy surroundings will help to keep your mind calm and free from chaos.

Assign a day for a whole house tidy up, or complete a room a day if you can’t commit to doing it all at once. If everything is stored away in its rightful place we guarantee your mind will feel less chaotic and you’ll be able to wind down effectively.

Inject A Bit Of Colour Into Your Surroundings

Colour is known to have a significant impact on our mood. For example, warm tones (such as burnt orange or yellow) are supposed to bring about feelings of happiness and optimism. Cool colours (like blue and green) are soothing and purple can help spark your creativity.

From painting a room or adding a number of finishing touches, ornaments and decorations into your home in a certain tone, you can intentionally inject colour into your surroundings that will buoy your mood when you need it most.

Finally...Take Care

These are trying times for us all. Our routines have been upended and we are all navigating what is an unknown situation. Above all else, be kind to yourself. it is perfectly fine if you don't fancy overhauling your home or getting stuck into DIY efforts. We all need to do what we have to in order to get through this safely. If all you do is carve out a calm and cosy spot for yourself, curl up and enjoy a book for a few hours, then we think that's just fine. In fact, more than fine, it sounds possibly blissful!