Wouldn't it be nice to have a home that contributes to your positive wellbeing everyday?
When I think of the word sanctuary, I think of feeling at ease, balanced and a sense of release. A place to recharge and unwind, in my own time and space.
There are a few things that can make a huge difference. Some are easy to do in 5 minutes, while others may take a little longer. I've found that everything (big and small) impacts how I feel in a space.
Ultimately, what works for you may work differently for someone else- the key is to create a sanctuary that makes you happy.
A little tip- when you change something that transforms how you feel about your home, allow the gratitude to flow. I find that gratitude awakens a natural sense of flow which helps to take more inspired action!
I'm not suggesting redecorating your home. Simply adding or taking away can make a world of difference. I agree with Marie Kondo's concept of gravitating towards what sparks joy. Creating a home that cultivates joy and peace can't help but bring more joy and peace into every area of our lives.
1. Lighting
Try adapting your lights to match the natural light outside. I tend to have two types of lights- the bright, slightly whiter lights and the warmer mood lights.
On darker/overcast days, I often turn on just the mood lights and light a few candles. I feel more balanced when I'm in sync with the brightness outside.
On brighter days, the light inside can feel too dark with mood lights alone, so I switch on the main, whiter lights to balance. The key is to synchronise the inside to match the outside. Feeling in tune with nature can facilitate a feeling of sanctuary and ease at home.
Oh, and don't underestimate the power of fairy lights!
2. Scent
Are there any scents that make you happy, relaxed or perhaps both? Find a fragrance that sparks a little joy. Something that brings a smile to your face when you walk into the room or encourages your body to go 'ahh'.
Be intentional. The small details create the overall feeling and level of comfort and ease when you walk into a room. I think we've all bought something without being fully conscious, whether it's from a shop or online, so take a little time to choose.
Be present in choosing as much as the using!
3. Music
From lo-fi beats to jazz, background music can be the cherry on the top of creating a cosy, nurturing sanctuary at home.
How does a genre of music make you feel? How do you want to feel? Choose songs that align with the atmosphere you wish to create.
4. Space
Similarly to how we need space between words when we speak (or it would be exhausting!) space helps in our home. I think clutter affects us mostly unconsciously but when we take the time to make space, it's such a relief isn't it?
Perhaps physical space invites more mental space? Either way, the first thing I tend to do when a room starts feeling a little overwhelming is tidy or clean up. It always works- and tidying can be good for the soul too!
5. Comfort
Your furniture may look beautiful, but is it comfortable? Perhaps it's a chair you love the look of but doesn't support your back or pillows that spike you with sharp feathers?!
Don't worry about admitting defeat! We all make mistakes. When I think I've learnt my lesson, I bring something else home that isn't quite right. My gut knows instantly, though I can be reluctant to admit it, so it stays for a few months before heading to the charity shop!
Sometimes, all a room needs is a soft blanket and a few cosy (the kind that doesn't give acupuncture when you sit down!) pillows.
Our furry friends know how to get cosy!
