Feeling Blue? These Home Design Tricks Could Help Boost Your Mood
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3 months ago
Interiors tips to stop you feeling SAD
As the days grow shorter and sunlight feels rather like a rare commodity, it’s no surprise that our moods can change – and the prospect of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) might start to become a reality. If you’re searching for ways to beat seasonal depression, these home design hacks could be just the ticket.
These Interior Design Tips Could Help Curb Seasonal Depression
The start of October heralds colder, gloomier days and darker mornings, leaving many of us with a case of the winter blues. If a tropical getaway isn’t on the cards (and you’ve stockpiled all of the Vitamin D supplements you can find), there are plenty of tips and tricks you can try – and it all starts in your very own home.
According to Dr Sham Singh, a holistic mental health psychiatrist, a key way to curb SAD symptoms is to utilise biophilic design: incorporating natural elements like plants and water features (as well as sunlight, if you can find any) into your home. This can help reduce stress, improve sleep and boost creativity and focus.
Wondering where to start? Here are Dr Singh’s best tips.
Consider Your Light Sources
While biophilic design emphasises greenery, it’s about far more than just plants: other hallmarks include organic shapes, natural materials and earth tones, alongside plenty of natural light. Maximise the light in your space by rearranging furniture and replacing heavy curtains with sheer or light-filtering fabrics. Plus, to really bring the outside in, you can always consider installing a fireplace (like these bioethanol options from Imaginfires) – guaranteed to banish cold weather blues in favour of cosy evenings curled up on the sofa.
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Incorporate Natural Materials
Materials and textures can really tie a space together, and when it comes to biophilic design, natural textures are the way to go. Elements like wood, stone, linen and wool all help to create a grounding, comforting feel; think hardwood furniture, jute rugs, wool throws and stone decor pieces.
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Harness The Power Of Scent
Natural scents from plants – as well as aromas like cedarwood and lavender – can instantly bring a feeling of tranquility into your home. Try potted herbs, essential oils and diffusers, all of which not only serve to help you relax, but also bring some much-needed vibrancy into any room (which is particularly handy on grey autumn days).
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