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Writer's pictureDr. Tomi Mitchell

Creating a Calm Space: How to Design a Stress-Free Zone in Your Home or Office



Remember that time you found yourself in a whirlwind of papers, clutter, and unanswered

emails, only to realize you’d turned your workspace into a mini version of a tornado? Yeah, I’ve

been there too. The chaos of our environments can sometimes reflect the chaos in our minds. If

your home or office resembles a scene from a disaster movie, it’s no wonder you’re feeling

stressed. The good news is, creating a calm, organized space doesn’t require a degree in

interior design or a complete overhaul of your living or work area. With a few thoughtful

adjustments, you can transform your environment into a sanctuary of tranquility that supports

your mental well-being and productivity.


The Impact of Your Environment


Our surroundings significantly impact our mood and emotions. Think about it—would you rather

work in a dim, cluttered room or a bright, airy space? The difference isn't just about personal

preference. Studies have shown that living in a cluttered environment can increase the

production of cortisol, the stress hormone. When our environment is chaotic, it can lead to

heightened stress levels and reduced overall well-being.


When you spend a lot of time in a particular space, you might stop noticing its impact on you.

This phenomenon, known as habituation or "attentional blindness," means that you become so

accustomed to your environment that its negative aspects blend into the background. The pile of

paperwork on your desk or the laundry spilling out of your closet might become invisible to you,

but they still affect your mental state. Your surroundings—what you see, smell, hear, and

feel—play a crucial role in shaping your mental health.


Designing Your Calm Space


Here are some ideas and strategies to help you create your own sanctuary, whether at home or

in the office.


1. Choose the Right Location


Selecting the right location is fundamental to creating a calm space. Ideally, the area should be

situated away from the main activity zones of your home or office. A quiet corner or a less

frequented part of the space can serve as an ideal location for your stress-free zone. This

separation helps establish a clear boundary between your relaxation area and the hustle and

bustle of daily life.


The location should also be easily accessible to you when needed. It should offer a sense of

retreat and be a place where you can comfortably unwind. If you work from home, consider

setting up your calm space in a separate room or a distinct area away from your workspace to

maintain a clear distinction between work and relaxation.


2. Use Soft Lighting


Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood of your calm space. Opt for soft, warm lighting to

create a soothing atmosphere. Harsh, bright lights can be jarring and counterproductive to

relaxation. Instead, use lamps with dimmers, fairy lights, or candles to achieve a gentle, calming

glow.


Soft lighting helps reduce eye strain and creates a more inviting environment. Consider

incorporating different light sources, such as a combination of lamps and ambient lighting, to

achieve the desired effect. Adjustable lighting options allow you to tailor the illumination to your

needs, whether you’re reading, meditating, or simply relaxing.


3. Create a Comfortable Temperature


Temperature can impact your comfort and stress levels. A room that is too hot or too cold can

be distracting and uncomfortable, making it harder to focus and relax. Aim to maintain a

comfortable and consistent temperature in your space.


If you’re working from home, ensure your workspace is well-ventilated and adjusted to your

preferred temperature. Small adjustments, like using a fan or a space heater, can make a big

difference in your comfort and productivity.


4. Incorporate Comfortable Seating


Comfortable seating is a key component of any calm space. Invest in a chair or cushion that

offers support and promotes relaxation. The seating should encourage you to sit back and

unwind, making the space inviting and restful. Whether it’s a cozy armchair, a bean bag, or a

small sofa, the goal is to create a spot where you can comfortably relax.


Consider ergonomics when choosing seating. The chair or cushion should provide proper

support and comfort to avoid physical strain. If space permits, opt for seating that allows you to

stretch out or recline, which can enhance relaxation and provide a more soothing experience.


5. Choose a Calming Color Palette


The colors you choose for your calm space can significantly impact its ability to promote

relaxation. Soft, muted colors tend to create a serene atmosphere, while bright, bold colors can

be stimulating. Opt for a color palette that includes shades known for their calming effects, such

as soft blues, greens, and neutrals.


Colors like light blue can evoke a sense of tranquility and calm, mimicking the sky or the sea.

Greens are associated with nature and can provide a restful feeling, while neutrals like beige or

soft gray create a peaceful, balanced environment. Experiment with different colors to see which

ones resonate with you and contribute to your sense of calm.


Consider incorporating these colors into walls, furnishings, and accessories to create a cohesive

and soothing look. Using these hues in moderation can help maintain a tranquil atmosphere

without overwhelming the senses.


6. Create a Sensory Experience


Engaging the senses is essential for creating a truly calming environment. Consider incorporating elements that appeal to different senses, such as soothing music, essential oils, or calming scents. A small diffuser with lavender, chamomile, or other relaxing scents can enhance the ambiance of your space. I remember lighting a lavender candle during a particularly stressful period and feeling an immediate sense of calm—it’s amazing how something as simple as a pleasant scent can make a difference.


Soft, instrumental music or nature sounds can provide a soothing auditory backdrop.

Experiment with different scents and sounds to find what resonates most with you. Creating a

sensory experience helps reinforce the calming nature of the space and supports relaxation and

mental clarity.


7. Add Natural Elements


Incorporating natural elements into your calm space can enhance its tranquility. Plants, natural

materials, and fresh air contribute to a soothing environment. Plants not only add beauty but

also improve air quality, which can have a positive impact on your mood and concentration.

Choose low-maintenance plants that are suitable for indoor environments, such as succulents

or ferns. Additionally, consider incorporating natural materials like wood, stone, or woven

textures to create a harmonious and calming aesthetic. These elements help bridge the gap

between indoor and outdoor environments, fostering a more serene atmosphere.


8. Incorporate Personal Touches


Personalizing your calm space with items that bring you joy and relaxation can make it more

effective. This might include artwork, photos, or sentimental objects. Choose items that evoke

positive emotions and create a sense of comfort.


Personal touches help make the space uniquely yours and reinforce its purpose as a retreat.

Select artwork or decorations that resonate with you and create a sense of peace. Avoid

cluttering the space with too many items, as this can detract from its calming effect.


9. Organize and Declutter


A cluttered environment can contribute to a cluttered mind. Keeping your calm space organized

and free of unnecessary items is essential. Use storage solutions like baskets, shelves, or

drawers to keep things tidy and maintain a clean and serene environment.


Regularly assess and declutter the space to ensure it remains inviting and functional. An

organized space promotes relaxation and prevents distractions, helping you to focus on

unwinding and recharging.


Creating a calm space is an investment in your mental and emotional well-being. By designing a

serene environment tailored to your preferences, you’re setting yourself up for greater

relaxation, focus, and overall wellness. It’s about crafting a sanctuary where you can retreat,

recharge, and find peace amidst life’s demands.


Remember, your calm space doesn’t have to be perfect or elaborate. Even small changes and

thoughtful adjustments can make a significant difference in how you experience your

environment. Embrace the process of creating and maintaining your calm space, and enjoy the

positive impact it has on your stress levels and mental clarity.


So, take a moment to evaluate your current environment and consider how you can transform it

into a space that nurtures tranquility and well-being. Whether it’s through color, comfort, or

personal touches, creating a calm space is a powerful step toward a more balanced and

peaceful life.

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