- Designing calming home spaces centers around incorporating elements like houseplants, water features, and pets
- Flowers such as lavender and chamomile add soothing scents and colors that reduce stress.
- Aquariums, fountains, and natural water features create serene atmospheres by mimicking nature indoors.
- Interacting with pets provides emotional comfort and can significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Over the past year, you might have your fair share of stressful situations. Creating a relaxing sanctuary at home can be invaluable for one’s mental health and well-being. A great way to do this is by designing calming spaces with nature and pets. With houseplants, aquariums, and even your furry friends, you can transform your home into a serene oasis. This article will explore how to design your own calming space at home with nature and pets.
Plant Flowers
Planting flowers in your living space is an excellent strategy to create a soothing environment. For starters, select quality flower seeds in bulk to ensure you have a variety of bloom colors and types.
Blooming flowers not only add color and fragrance to your home, but they can also be therapeutic. Just watching your seeds sprout and grow into beautiful flowers can be a meditative and calming experience.
If possible, opt for flowers that are known for their calming properties, such as lavender, chamomile, and jasmine. These flowers have natural scents that can help reduce stress and anxiety.
Add Some Water Features
Water features are another easy way to incorporate nature into your home. Adding an aquarium or a small water fountain indoors creates a relaxing ambiance. The sound of flowing water has a relaxing effect that can alleviate your stress. Studies have shown that the sound of water can reduce blood pressure and heart rate, promoting a calm state. Here are some factors that come to mind:
Aquariums
Aquariums are not just decorative items; they are miniature ecosystems that can have a calming effect on people. Being in the presence of water and observing the graceful movements of fish have been linked to reduced anxiety and stress levels. Having an aquarium at home, be it a freshwater or a saltwater one, can be a source of tranquility. The vibrant colors of the fish, the gentle water flow, and the rhythmic swimming patterns create a soothing atmosphere that can help take your mind off worries.
Water Fountains
Water fountains, both indoor and outdoor, can transform your living space into a serene retreat. The soft murmur of trickling water can soothe your mind and provide a peaceful backdrop to your daily activities. Additionally, fountains can act as natural humidifiers, improving the air quality in your home. Whether it’s a tabletop fountain or a large, wall-mounted piece, this water feature is sure to bring a sense of calm and elegance to any room.
Natural Water Features
In addition to aquariums and fountains, considering natural water features like a small indoor pond or a rain curtain can be highly therapeutic. These require more space and maintenance, but the feeling of being close to nature that they provide is unparalleled. Imagine the gentle sound of raindrops or the serene view of a pond with a few aquatic plants and fish right inside your home. These water features can truly turn your home into a tranquil retreat.
Pets Can Unwind You
Pets are a great way to relieve stress – just 10-15 minutes of petting a dog or a cat can significantly reduce cortisol levels. Furthermore, owning a pet can help people cope with symptoms of depression and anxiety. One of the most significant advantages of pets as part of a calming space is their presence, which can be comforting, reassuring, and help you relax. Here are some tips to follow:
Create a Designated Space for Your Pet
Creating a designated space for your pet helps in establishing a safe and comfortable area for them. This place can be a warm corner with a soft bed for your dog or a cozy nook with a climbing tree for your cat. A dedicated area for your pet not only provides them with a secure space but also adds an element of warmth and liveliness to your home. This pet corner could also serve as your stress-relief spot where you interact and play with them.
Encourage Playtime With Your Pet
Regular playtime with your pet not only keeps them active and healthy, but it can also be a great stress reliever for you. Whether it’s throwing a ball for your dog in the backyard, engaging your cat in a teaser toy chase, or watching your fish swim around in their aquarium, these simple activities can bring you immense joy and calm.
Set Aside Time Each Day To Spend Quality Time With Your Pet
Setting aside quality time each day to spend with your pet is essential not only for their happiness but also for your well-being. This could involve cuddling with your pet on a cozy couch, training them to learn new tricks, or simply sitting next to them while reading a book. These activities not only allow you to unwind but also create an emotional connection with your pet.
Creating a calming space at home with nature and pets is about transforming small details of your environment that impact your moods and psychological health. Houseplants, aquariums, pets, water features, and lighting are all elements that can help you achieve a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you have a small apartment or a large home, you can design a perfect space to unwind and restore your energy. Find what works for you and create the perfect calming space to recharge and rejuvenate.