Intentional Integration: Wellness at Home
Can you believe March is nearly here and spring will bloom in less than a month? Life passes us by in a blur when we’re having fun and working hard, so it’s no surprise that intentionally slowing down and evaluating the wellness level of our home isn’t at the top of the priority list.
We love the idea of slowing down because it can help us be present and reflect on what brings us joy and enhances our wellness daily. If you’re reading this at home, take a few deep breaths, then look around and ask yourself “what do I like about my space?” Consider what décor, furniture, or greenery brings you joy. Or dive even deeper – are those 1,000 thread count sheets contributing to a restful night's sleep? Do you feel good about using cloth napkins and microfiber cloths in place of single-use paper towels? Does the smell of old leftovers in the fridge make you feel good about your next meal? Are the piles of mail on the counter or stacks of paper in your office stressing you out? Really think about whether things like this add to or detract from your sense of peace in your home. Then, ask, “what can I do about it?”
The truth is there is no one size fits all answer to integrating wellness into your living space. It takes really getting to know yourself again and honoring your needs in the present moment.
When we’re in need of inspiration, we look to others who are doing admirable work and that inspires us to get started. Here are some of the best home wellness insights we’ve come across recently:
Create a space in your house that is designed to bring you the maximum amount of peace. Perhaps it’s a meditation room, a well-organized closet with a comfy seat, or a bright and airy solarium filled with plants.
Consider decorating your room based on the purpose it serves. For example, your bedroom might benefit from a deep blue wallpaper or blackout curtains that create a darker ambiance, a lavender aromatherapy diffuser could help with stress reduction, and bedside lamps could be replaced with electronic candles to reduce the amount of light before bedtime and inspire deep, restful sleep.
If you have a garden, try being more intentional about what you plant and how you can use it. For example, which flowers would you like to grow and turn into bouquets for your home? Herbs like basil, sage, and rosemary as well as tomatoes and lettuce varieties can benefit you in the kitchen while sprigs of lavender can be added to baths or satchels for an ultra-relaxing experience.
Can you attract more nature by adding a bird feeder to the deck? This can serve as a beautiful reminder that nature is all around you, even in the most urban places.
If your morning routine includes coffee or tea, consider making the process more intentional and less stressful. Create a dedicated morning brew bar where all your ingredients and tools are easily accessible and prepped for the following morning.
If you have unwanted items lying around your home but seldom get around to collecting everything and actually donating them, follow makeup mogul Bobbi Brown’s advice: “My latest trick is to keep a big L.L. Bean canvas bag labeled 'give' in a few key rooms throughout the house. As I straighten up, anything that I don't want or need goes into the bag to donate. This exercise helps me declutter not only my space but also my mind." (source)
We hope you’ve found these tips helpful and wish you a health-filled spring season ahead!