The Connection Between Home and Wellness
It’s so funny how with age, I’ve become very selective with the environments I choose to be in. I notice I gravitate towards spaces that, upon stepping in, give me a feeling of being grounded. If it feels good – I’m there.
Over the years, I have lived in places that have been full of chaos, overstimulation, uncertainty, happiness and joy – all which I believe left an imprint in the places I have lived in and felt their residue from time to time. I have personally felt the differences when my home was not my sanctuary vs. when it has been and how it has impacted my mental health. Living spaces and well-being have a direct connection.
For me, spaces retain energy - everything in a space plays their part from paint color, floors, plants, art, natural light, etc. and one of the first questions I asked during my very limited time as an interior designer, was “how do you want to feel in this space” because it’s that important.
This for sure was amplified during the pandemic of 2020 – I think everyone felt a need to create a safe space within their home and decided to pour into it (how many stories have we heard about new home improvement projects happening within our circle). In fact, since the pandemic more than 85% of people spend their time indoors vs. 60% prior to the pandemic of 2020 (1) .
This led me to really be intentional with my own space and design my home around these questions:
· How do I want to feel as I walk into a specific room or throughout my home?
· What would the functionality be of a particular space?
· What sparks joy for me and how do I incorporate it? For me, this is art, color, plants and the comfort of an amazing couch.
· What holistic practices can I apply? This is where plants come in for me – not only do they function as air purifiers but also bring living energy to my space. And, styling them in your space can create magic.
Interested in some reading to get you started? Here are a few recommendations:
· The New Bohemians Handbook by Justina Blakeney
· Design Wise by Vern Yip
· Styled by Emily Henderson
· Living Wild by Hilton Carter
· Sacred Spaces by Carley Summers
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