Right, so, let me tell you about my recent deep dive into home wellness. I’ve been exploring articles focused on using our living spaces to cultivate a sense of calm and, honestly, it’s been transformative. We’ve all heard the saying, ‘tidy house, tidy mind,’ but understanding the profound connection between our physical environment and our mental well-being? That’s been a real eye-opener. I wanted to share my own experience of exploring DIY wellness projects and how they’ve positively impacted my space and my mind.
The articles I read really drilled home the idea that physical clutter directly contributes to mental clutter. Think about it: a constantly messy space demands attention. You’re perpetually scanning for things, tripping over obstacles, and feeling a general sense of overwhelm. It’s like a low-level hum of stress that never quite switches off. Decluttering became my first port of call. My approach was gradual – starting with one area at a time. Instead of tackling the whole house at once (which always feels impossibly daunting), I focused on, say, one bookshelf, or a single kitchen drawer.
Here’s a simple but effective method I found helpful: the ‘four-box method’. Grab four boxes and label them ‘Keep,’ ‘Donate,’ ‘Recycle,’ and ‘Relocate.’ Systematically go through each item in the designated area, deciding where it belongs. Be honest with yourself! That chipped mug you swear you’ll fix? It’s probably time to let it go. The joy of donating items is a positive boost in itself. For items you keep, consider storage solutions – baskets, shelves, drawer dividers – to maintain order and prevent future clutter build-up. This approach meant that I decluttered gradually but I made visible progress at each stage, which was really motivating.
Once I had decluttered it was time to create a space that was conducive to relaxation. I’ve always been drawn to the idea of practicing yoga at home, but my living room never felt quite right – too cramped, too chaotic. The articles I read highlighted how even a small dedicated space can make a huge difference. I carved out a corner by the window, ensuring there was enough room to comfortably move through the basic poses. Then came the fun part: designing a calming atmosphere.
This is where the DIY wellness projects came in. I decided to make my own meditation cushions. This really wasn’t difficult, but I learnt some really useful skills that I can use again. First I found some scrap fabric and a bag of stuffing. I sewed a basic square cushion and then stuffed it tightly, this took me an hour or so but it was really worth the time investment. Then, to enhance the sensory experience of my yoga practice, I made a batch of homemade aromatherapy blends. I used a base of sweet almond oil and added essential oils known for their calming properties: lavender, chamomile, and frankincense. The process is simple: for a small (30ml) bottle, add approximately 6-10 drops of essential oil. Experiment with different combinations to find scents that resonate with you. I use this oil blend for self-massage before starting my yoga practice, and I also add a few drops to my diffuser to create a relaxing ambiance.
I also explored upcycling materials for wellness purposes. An old wooden ladder became a makeshift plant stand, bringing greenery into my space. Glass jars were transformed into candle holders, casting a warm, inviting glow. These small touches really elevated the space and made it feel more intentional and soothing. For older people, it is good to consider access when creating a calming home, make sure any yoga spaces have room to move without tripping and avoid using candles unsupervised.
Another thing I had read about that I really wanted to explore was the use of an orangery space. I don’t have an orangery myself, but the idea of a light-filled, garden-connected room dedicated to wellness activities is incredibly appealing. I imagine it would be the perfect place to practice yoga, meditate, or simply unwind with a book, surrounded by nature. I hope to add an orangery to my home one day.
It’s been a fantastic journey. By addressing clutter, incorporating DIY wellness elements, and creating dedicated spaces for relaxation, I’ve transformed my home into a true sanctuary. The simple act of crafting my own aromatherapy blends and meditation cushions instilled a sense of intention and mindfulness into my daily routine. A clutter free home makes so much difference and also a feeling of creating my own peaceful space gave me an enormous sense of achievement.
