Retreat to your Haven and Woosah!

Our home, whether it’s an apartment, townhouse, or a mansion on a hill, is our haven, right? We surround ourselves with furnishings, artwork, and accessories that offer a sense of comfort, security, and familiarity. Well, this process is called Nesting.

During these incredibly unprecedented times, finding ways to retreat from it all is an absolute must for our physical and spiritual well-being. So how exactly do we go about creating and reinforcing the comfort and safety that we desire in our environment? Let’s examine a few strategic areas in the home and flush out some solutions that will foster a more peaceful oasis.

We’re going to begin with the heart of the home, the kitchen. So, how exactly do we create peace and tranquility in this space? By organizing it, that's how! There's no greater sense of calm than being able to find what you're looking for. See-thru containers, storage bins, and lazy susans mean there’s a place for everything and everything in its place. If space allows, create a cozy corner for morning coffee or tea. And if you’re able to gaze out of a window, even better. Oh, and be sure to treat yourself to a bouquet of fresh-cut flowers and display them in a beautiful vase on the counter. The beauty of nature is always mesmerizing! Now that deserves a Woosah.

left: courtesy of lifeandstylemag.com

center: courtesy of LR Designs

right: courtesy of timesofindia.indiatimes.com

So, let’s move on to the family room. Typically, an extension of the kitchen, this space tends to garner a lot of activity. Planning a Netflix and chill kind of night? Keep a cozy, yet fabulous throw nearby to curl up in. How good is the lighting in the space? Adding table or floor lamps with energy-efficient warm to warm white LED (2700k-3000k) bulbs will bring inviting ambient lighting into the room. A good way to activate the sense of touch, a very calming sense, is to add throw pillows made from soft textural fabrics. You must try an aromatherapy essential oils diffuser! Jasmine, lemongrass, or warm spices wafting through the air, evoking a sense of well-being. Breathe … Woosah.

left: courtesy of LR Designs

center: courtesy of LR Designs

right: courtesy of medicalnewstoday.com

Spring is almost in the air, so how about providing some extra TLC to your outdoor environment? The global pandemic forced us to retreat into our homes. And when the warm weather arrived, we were sequestered to our backyards. As we finally re-emerge, creating a beautiful outdoor living oasis and communing with nature will be just what the doctor ordered! Soothing sounds always bring forth a Zen-like state blocking out the surrounding world. This can be achieved with outdoor water features such as a wall mount or tabletop fountain. Outdoor speakers will pump out your favorite tunes transporting you to your happy place. And don’t forget about that special beverage you’ll be sipping on while lounging in the deep-seat cushion lounge chair. Get the picture? Breathe … Woosah.

left: courtesy of lampsplus.com

right: courtesy of potterybarn.com

Heading back inside, let’s make our way to the boudoir! They say the only activities that should be happening in the bedroom are good lovin’ and sleep! So, let’s assume that’s right and set the mood for peace and relaxation. The first consideration is lighting which creates the mood for a space. Does your bedroom have recessed lights as well as nightstand lamps? Dimmer switches are a must for overhead lighting. Instead of bright white bulbs, try warm to warm white temperatures instead. Moving on to fabrics. A good night’s rest or lovin’ is always enhanced with sumptuous bedding. Temperature-controlled sheets are a great technology that helps regulate body temperature throughout the night. Another great solution is Egyptian cotton sheets with at least a 300-thread count. Aromatherapy, such as scented candles or an essential oils diffuser, will aid in making the stresses of the day float away. And for heaven’s sake, don’t turn on the tv! Breathe … Woosah.

left: courtesy of overstock.com

right: courtesy of jomalone.com

So, tell me something. What are your bathroom habits? Oooh, that’s a bit personal, isn’t it? A space where we conduct the most personal of bodily tasks can also be a spa oasis! Scented candles, check! Soft Turkish or Egyptian cotton bath towels, check! Luxurious shower gel, bubble bath, bath salts, and massage oils, check! The point is pampering is the key. Add a robe hook and hang a luxurious boutique hotel-inspired robe from it. Just looking at it will transport you back to your most cherished travel memories. Or it may inspire you to make new travel plans right away! And don’t sleep on investing in a bidet toilet seat attachment. Your posterior will thank you! Breathe … Woosah.

left: courtesy of potterybarn.com

center: courtesy of etsy.com (Voss Botanicals)

right: courtesy of build.com (American Standard)

In all sincerity, the key to all of this is to find your happy place. Creating a peaceful home environment, carving out spaces that are sacred and Zen, and filling it with the love and joy of family and friends will contribute to a lifetime of happiness and well-being. Woosah.

Blessings,

Lorra