Over the past few years, I’ve realized that the energy of your home can have a huge impact on your mental health. Now this isn’t a new concept. As we know, having a clean, organized, and comfortable space, can aid in promoting relaxation and ease. Home is not only a mental concept. It’s a physical space for many. And very often, this is the space that we live in and inhabit daily. While a home can be an ever working progress that requires regular maintenance, I’ve found that some simple home improvements can be achieved over time. Engaging in this ever evolving practice can aid in cultivating a sacred space that supports your mental health.
Tidiness
Clutter is something that most can relate to within their home. It’s easy to fall into a lack of routine, when it comes to keeping a space tidy. In Mental Health America’s article on cultivating a healthy home, the author discusses the implications of a cluttered space. Clutter can exacerbate depressive symptoms, challenges with focus, and add stress to an individual. When reading this article, it dawned on me that clutter can inhibit an individual’s ability to practice mindfulness, which is an important practice for all.
It’s difficult to be fully present if you are ruminating on the unfolded laundry or sink full of dishes. Establishing a routine of essential tidiness practices can aid in creating a space that doesn’t promote stress and distractions; allowing for the ability to create predictability and ease. And remember, tidiness doesn’t happen in one day. It’s okay for it to be an ever evolving practice!
Coziness and Decorations
A home can be transformed into a more comfortable space,when it’s cultivated to achieve the atmosphere you are striving towards. Adding elements that promote coziness can be achieved in many different ways. I’ve found that adding candles, with soothing scents, cozy blankets, and decorations that reflect your personality and interests, add to the experience of relaxation. Your home is a space where you can be your authentic self, and adding items that spark joy and happiness can aid in improvements in mood, regardless of returning home from a hectic day.
Color
Color has been shown to have an effect on our mood. While there are some general guides to mood associations and color, it can be unique to the individual. For example, the color orange might invoke feelings of warmth, summertime or a cozy fire for some.
In my case, I tend to associate orange with confusion; I blame this on traffic cones. Noticing the feeling and thoughts that a color evokes can help you achieve the atmosphere you are cultivating for your space.
During January of this year, I read the book Grimoire Girl by Hillary Burton Morgan, and was inspired by her take on color in your home. In her chapter titled “No Beige Walls” she described the ability to create authenticity in her home by adding color and bold wallpaper prints to the walls. Now while there is definitely nothing wrong with beige walls, if your space doesn’t feel authentic to you, it’s okay to add a splash of color!
There’s nothing quite like resting and relaxing in your sacred space after a long day. While it’s a cliche, home truly is where the heart is. Taking steps towards cultivating your sacred space can be an act of self-care and be a positive force in improving your mental health. If you would like to talk to a counselor at Tx Harmony Counseling Center, please reach out! You can give us a call at 832-352-1600 or you can contact usthrough our website HERE.
