Around 55% of Americans feel stressed during the day, reports a recent Gallup poll, and children as well as adults are feeling the strain of worrying about the present and future. Stress is contributing to a host of health problems, mental anguish, and lost productivity at work, and it can also exacerbate the symptoms of ADHD. It is vital to fight it every day by embracing natural, holistic stress busters and by designing a peaceful home. Turning your home into an authentic oasis involves pampering as many of the senses as possible. The idea is for your home space to be beautiful, practical, and ergonomic all at once.

Going Green

Plants have a calming influence, with one January, 2020 study finding that the mere sight of an indoor plant can reduce stress levels. The study found that workers who placed just one plant near their computer had significantly lower anxiety levels than those who did not have plants. If you have a garden, ensure that your living space connects to your green space via glass doors so that you have a beautiful view to gaze at when you are in relaxation mode. Cornell University researchers recently found that being in a green space for just 10 minutes had powerful benefits in terms of stress reduction.

Pampering The Sense Of Smell

It is no wonder that fragrant candles are such a popular collector’s and gift item in the U.S. Their flickering flame can be a great aid for relaxation and meditation exercises, but so too can their fragrance. Essential oils such as lemon, bergamot, lavender, peppermint and clove can be used alone or in blends to lend candles a beautiful scent that energizes, relaxes or clears the mind. When you are out shopping, avoid paraffin candles, since they are made from petroleum, which can pose a risk to your respiratory health). Candles that burn cleanly are better options. Beeswax and soy candles promote better health since they can contain energizing essential oils, yet contain none of the risks associated with paraffin. Natural candles made from soy or beeswax are also very easy to clean - just use a bit of soapy water, and your surfaces will be spotless.

Investing In Design

You don’t have to outlay a huge budget to your home interiors, but the most important items for rest - including your bed, sofa and chairs - should be comfortable and supportive. Beds are particularly important, since one with the wrong firmness level for your sleeping position can result in frequent waking - one of the hallmarks of poor sleep quality. Equally vital are home office chairs and desks. If you spend many hours working remotely, your office space should be ergonomic, with your desk and computer screen placed at the right height, and your chair containing features such as a supportive back, adjustable height, and adjustable armrests.

Music And The Sense Of Sound

If you love technology, think of investing in programmable surround-sound so you can control the music being played in every space of your home from the comfort of your tablet or mobile phone. When your family is dining, decorating your home for the festive season, or simply reading or unwinding, music can help set the mood. One musical style that has been found to uplift the spirit - and even aid with study and other activities requiring focus - is classical music by masters such as Mozart and Beethoven. Of course, your family will undoubtedly have their own list of relaxing favorites to take turns playing.

Turning your home into an oasis of calm involves everything from your furniture layout to the way in which you pamper your senses. The zesty fragrance of lemon essential oils emitted from a diffuser or your favorite candle can energize you, while lavender can calm you down. A relaxing home is also one with comfy furniture - the kind that won’t give you a back or leg ache, even if you do work for several hours in one go. Don’t forget to include small but important touches, including a good sound system that plays carefully chosen music meant to calm body, mind and spirit, or aid with mindfulness pursuits such as meditation.

This article was written by Jane Grant who is a freelance writer. We thank Jane for this work. The photograph was from Mareefe at Pexels.com. Again we are grateful.

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