In our fast-paced modern lives, it's essential to prioritise our mental well-being.
While seeking therapy, practicing self-care, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are crucial, we often overlook the impact our home environment can have on our mental health.
Your living space can be more than just a shelter; it can serve as a sanctuary that nurtures your mind, body, and soul.
And with Mental Health Week upon us, this gives us an opportunity to shine a light on what we can do in our home life to try and make a difference.
In this blog post, we'll explore some ways you can improve your mental health by making a few changes to your home, with a special focus on the benefits of a weighted blanket.
What is Mental Health Awareness Week?
The Mental Health Awareness Week was founded in 2001 by the Mental Health Foundation.
This week is vital in trying to increase our knowledge and understanding of mental health and how mental health problems can be prevented.
Mental Health Awareness Week makes sure that mental health remains at the forefront of our minds, and, according to the Mental Health Foundation, it has even helped contribute to government policy changes.
Above all, its goals are to prevent mental health problems and take action to make sure we live in a society that values and promotes good mental health for all.
So, with this in mind, we have put together six tips for trying to improve our mental wellbeing where we know best: in the home.
Declutter and organise
Cluttered environments can contribute to feelings of stress and anxiety. It is the complete opposite of a relaxing space.
Start by de-cluttering your home, removing unnecessary items, and organising your belongings. This will help to simplify your living areas, creating an atmosphere of calmness and order.
You could consider gifting some of your unwanted belongings to charity or to loved ones, which will help bring you a sense of making a difference and helping others too.
By streamlining your surroundings, you'll experience a sense of control and peace of mind.
Let in plenty of natural light and fresh air
The quality of light and air in your home has a profound impact on your mood and overall wellbeing.
Open up your curtains, let natural light flood in, and embrace the warmth it brings.
Fresh air is equally important, so try to ventilate your space regularly.
Consider adding indoor plants to purify the air and bring a touch of nature into your home, which will in turn improve the air quality throughout your own home and improve your overall health.
Other natural materials such as wood and stone can be introduced into your space through small accents to implements a relaxing environment through their earthy colours.
Colour psychology
Believe it or not, colours have the power to influence our emotions and mental state.
Consider some quick interior design changes in your home through a splash of paint or some cosy furnishings can create a space you'll enjoy spending time in.
Opt for soothing colours such as soft blues, greens, or neutrals in your bedroom and other living spaces as research shows that these hues have a calming effect on the mind.
These different colours can promote relaxation and tranquility, fostering a more serene environment. This can be particularly important in the bathroom, an area of the home we often go to calm down and relax with a soothing bath.
Introducing feel good colours into your bathroom space can be done easily, even if on a small budget. You can revamp and refresh your room with soft and cosy bath towels - perfect for wrapping up in after a bubble bath.
Create a 'Zen Zone'
Set aside a specific area in your home dedicated to relaxation and mindfulness.
It could be a cosy reading nook, a meditation corner, or a space for a home gym, perfect for yoga and stretching.
Filling your own space with elements that promote calmness, such as comfortable cushions, scented candles, and soft lighting with the aim of reducing anxiety levels and feeling less stress.
This zone will serve as a daily reminder to prioritise self-care and look after your mental health.
Invest in a Weighted Blanket
Weighted blankets have gained popularity in recent years due to their potential benefits for anxiety and insomnia.
The gentle pressure of a weighted blanket stimulates deep touch pressure, triggering the release of serotonin and promoting relaxation.
This can help reduce anxiety, reduce stress levels, and improve sleep quality.
Consider adding a weighted blanket to your bedroom or relaxation space for a soothing embrace at the end of a long day, helping you to fall asleep and help you feeling emotionally and physically ready for the day ahead when you wake the next morning.
Comfort and cosiness
Surround yourself with soft textures and cosy materials.
Creating a physical environment that promotes comfort can have a positive impact on your mental wellbeing. Invest in plush rugs, fluffy pillows, and warm blankets that invite you to snuggle up and unwind.
With warmer months ahead it is likely we will be spending less time indoors. Creating a relaxing atmosphere outdoors, which has a comfortable home feel, is a great way to reduce stress and rest.
Being outside will also ensure you get plenty of vitamin d, which will benefit your physical health.
Choose a stylish, herringbone throw to add a touch of comfort to your garden space. Both soft and versatile, a throw can be used in and around the house, or outdoors for a layer of warmth.
Your home can have a big impact
Our homes have a profound influence on our mental health.
By making intentional changes to our living spaces, we can create an environment that supports and nurtures our wellbeing.
From de-cluttering and embracing natural light to incorporating calming colours and investing in a weighted blanket, small adjustments can make all the difference, and have a significant impact on our mental state.
If you're unsure what size blanket you will need, you can check out our detailed weighted blanket size guide.
Remember, your home should be a haven that provides solace, relaxation, and rejuvenation.
Prioritise your mental health by transforming your home into a space that uplifts and nurtures your well-being.