We spend the vast majority of our lives at work, running errands, sitting in traffic, or doing a multitude of other things that we pretty much despise.
Now I this probably comes as no surprise to any of you out there, but all that angst, and frustration can wreak havoc on our psyche. It’s the reason we go crazy on the weekends. It’s the reason we go on vacations, we’ve just got to get rid of all that tension that’s been bubbling up over the months.
But we can’t always take a week, or even a weekend to go to an exotic resort, and release that tension. So why not bring that oasis to home? Here are some of my favorite ways to bring the sanctuary of a vacation resorts to your home.
Tranquil Color Tints
Our brains evolved to react to certain colors; it’s why red invokes passion. You should keep this in mind when decorating your home. Go for lighter tints like blues or violets; there are plenty to choose from. The primary objective is to find lite hues that help to ease your mind subconsciously.
Keep this in mind when decorating too. When getting things like accent pillows and throws and good bed sheets, go with light, breezy colors to help keep you at ease.
Simplicity Is Key
Our minds are always paying attention to what is around us even if we aren’t paying attention to it. If you’re going for the ‘zen’ feeling, then you should keep patterns and designs to a minimum. Don’t get us wrong; we love intricate designs as much as anybody. But when making your personal oasis, simplicity is key.
Cleanliness
I’m sure this comes as a surprise to no one, but if you want tranquility, then you can’t have a giant mess around you. Have you ever come home from a long day of work only to see a messy home? There’s nothing that sets you off more, I don’t know (perhaps it’s the way we evolved), but nothing throws off serenity like a pile of dirty dishes.
Keep your place as tidy as you possible, and you’ll find walking through the door in the evening to be a joyous occasion.
Sounds
I used to live in an apartment building that had waterfalls everywhere; by the pool, in the courtyard, they even had a waterfall right outside my balcony. And let me tell you, it was the most relaxing place I have ever lived. Anytime I needed to calm down, or just wanted to relax; I need to do nothing more than open the sliding door and hear the soothing sounds of water crashing against itself.
Get yourself a fountain to help you relax and unwind. And it doesn’t have to be that big; tabletop fountains have the same impact as an extravagant outdoor fountain.
Simplicity Is Key #2
How much of our days do we spend looking at a screen? I’d venture to guess the vast majority of it. There are loads of studies out there depicting how technology is driving us to distraction, and an oasis is all about being in the moment and taking in the beauty around you. Set aside an area where you can sit comfortably, shut your brain off, and just be in the moment. Your brain will thank you for it.
Outdoor Hideaways
Remember that balcony I spoke about earlier? I can’t tell you how much work I got done on that balcony. I’d sit out there for hours at a time just lost in my work. There’s something about nature that our minds and bodies crave, it makes you feel… connected. That’s probably why everybody is so calm and happy in San Diego.
Put together a nice corner for yourself in the backyard, on the front porch, on your balcony. It doesn’t have to be much, just as long as you can take in the world around you.
Closed Storage
In the military, they talk about light discipline. It basically means that if you’re on a night mission don’t allow light to go where isn’t supposed to go. This is the same concept; I call it nick nack discipline.
You probably have a lot of stuff in your home; books, cards, nick nacks, dvd’s, and who knows what else. These all contribute to unwanted brain activity so get storage units that you can close. It will go a long way towards calming the area down.
Lighting
When it comes to light, all-natural is the key. Did you know that being in the sun increases your levels of serotonin? And by a pretty hefty margin. So when the sun is shining, open up those blinds. Not only will it brighten your home, mood, and day; but it will also provide some natural warmth. Another thing our bodies crave.
Reduce Clutter
The number one cause of stress is clutter. Whether its actual clutter in your house, clutter at work, or clutter in your mind. Practice some mindfulness techniques to help you reduce clutter and live in the moment. Before long, the world will be your oasis.
Do you have any other tips? Share them below.
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