NATURE AND OUR WELLBEING
The prolonged lockdown has highlighted the very real need of nature for our mental, not just physical wellbeing, the effects of interior areas ultimately has on our moods, our ability to work and our general health is becoming more prevalent than ever.
The simply application of greenery and natural light can have a tremendously positive results, reducing stress and to improve the air quality inside our homes. Interior design can provide not just a source of comfort for all of us having to spend extended periods of time without physical contact, but also helping many deal with the negative consequences of living alone.
So we’ve put together some tips to emphasise nature in your home to help you feel more positive, relaxed and reestablish your own private sanctuary.
- NATURAL LIGHT
The many health benefits of natural light have been proven time and again such as critical nutrients from vitamin D, warding off depression, and improving sleep. According to healthline.com “The so-called “sunshine vitamin” also doesn’t discriminate based on whether you get your sunlight indoors or out”.
So let the sunshine in, ditch the drapes or at least open up ands let as much light in as possible. Also think about using light colours and mirrors to bounce that daylight around and add extra brightness to your home.
- VERTICAL & INDOOR GARDENS
Having increased in popularity over the last few years, recent events have cemented the benefits of indoor plants from reducing stress, improving air-quality to just adding a much needed splash of colour. Creating your own indoor or vertical garden is now easier than ever and can be a big or small as you want it, with modular systems, hanging planters or just adding a few herbs to the kitchen window.
Biophilia, no longer just a trend but a major health addition.
- NATURAL MATERIALS
Natural is the new black, hand in hand with the move towards sustainability, natural materials and their use in our homes has had a fashion resurgence. Adding warmth, texture as well as durability, there are numerous options to introducing some on-trend and versatile finishes to your home. Think wood, not just as flooring but feature wall, splash back or crafted furniture, natural fibres such as sisal, hemp, cotton or leather are perfect colour additions as rugs and throw cushions. Stone, whether it be sleek smooth veined marble or exposed natural stone such as travertine or limestone, all can help to create a timeless and welcoming space.
- FRESH AIR
It has long been proved the health benefits of better air flow for increased conditions in our homes to assist with productivity, positivity and a general sense of wellbeing. The air that we breathe is just as important as the food we eat or the water we drink. There are many contributing factors to indoor air pollutants (which in some instances can be higher then external pollutants) from toxic materials such as cleaning products, plastics, building materials, cooking, damp or even burning candles. Whilst it’s certainly worth considering either a dehumidifier or negative ion generator, don’t forget an easy option is to also open a few windows each day for 20 minutes and take in a few deep breathes.
- GROW YOUR OWN
The lockdowns have also seen an vast increase in people wanting to grow their own food at home, this redirection into “The Good Life” styled self-sufficiency is not a new response during times of crisis and anxiety. If you are considering this as a new hobby just remember that lush, abundant home food production tends to take time to develop and mature, so be patient with yourself, enjoy the process and give yourself a well deserved pat on the back for the new skills that you are developing.
