Whether you share your home or have your own place, there are some actions you can put into practice to make your little pocket of the world somewhere you can hang out, be yourself and spend time on your interests.
Creating your own space is a good opportunity to check-in on your wellbeing and motivate yourself to do more of the things you enjoy. Your space could be your bedroom, a study space or a little nook you can call your own – it doesn’t have to have four walls and a door – maybe it’s a spot in your backyard or a seat on your front porch where you can pop on some headphones, get creative and clear your head. Choose an area of your home that calms you and where you would like to spend time doing things that interest you.
Of course, the coronavirus pandemic has complicated this process for some. With so many people forced to adopt remote working arrangements, and with school and day care routines disrupted, it can be difficult to find a space free of distractions. However, this is also what makes it more important than ever to locate somewhere to call your own.
Once you’ve decided on your space, there are a few design and architectural principles you can use to help make your space a place to relax and recharge those wellbeing batteries.
Declutter
By clearing out the things you don’t love or need, you not only clear space, you also clear your mind. Decluttering or ‘spring cleaning’ opens up the space and saves your brain from distraction created by mess. Plus, it’s a good feeling to clean up and donate any unwanted goods to the local charity store.
Fill your space with ‘you’
Recognise what makes you feel good and fill your space with those things: photographs, favourite books, musical instruments, artwork, notebooks – even a desk to encourage your creative projects or a chair where you can just sit and think or meditate. Have some things in your space that interest you, make you feel content and keep you curious.
Light
Keeping your space in tune with the natural rhythms of the day helps your body maintain its circadian rhythm (our internal 24-hour clock that keeps your sleep/wake cycles running regularly and smoothly). Healthy exposure to natural light and a good night’s sleep in a dark room helps you rest and recharge – so try letting the light in during the day and drawing those curtains at night.
Fresh air and temperature
Fresh air can work wonders – the simple act of walking outside can help clear a foggy mind. Bring a little bit of nature into your space – open a door or window to create airflow. You can also add a plant or two to keep the air fresh.
Peace and quiet
Sometimes we just want to be by ourselves – and that’s okay. A little time out every now and then is a good opportunity to check in with yourself and see how you’re travelling. Do you feel you can have some privacy in your space? Can you remain undisturbed for a few minutes? You don’t have to be locked behind a door – if you live with other people, maybe tell your housemates or family members that you’re going to ‘chill out’ and find somewhere you can tune out and let yourself relax.
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