Designing Spaces that Promote Mental Wellbeing

This week, let's take a break from our usual focus on sustainability and delve into the realm of mental wellbeing. Designing spaces that nurture our mental health is a crucial aspect of creating a harmonious living environment. It's about more than just the physical space; it's about understanding how our surroundings impact our mental state and finding ways to promote positivity and calmness.

Reducing visual clutter is one way to create a more peaceful environment. Ensuring that everything has a place not only makes your space feel more organized but can also reduce stress and anxiety. For me, keeping my space clean, even if it's not perfect, is essential. I use a robot vacuum to help maintain cleanliness, which may not be the most environmentally friendly choice, but it eases my mind knowing the floor is clean.

Crafting a lifestyle that supports your mental health is key. Whether you prefer a structured routine or a more flexible approach, finding what works for you is crucial. Consider implementing a bedtime ritual to signal to your body and mind that it's time to unwind. Creating a dark, cool environment in your bedroom can promote restful sleep, while practices like meditation, yoga, or gentle stretching can further enhance your nighttime routine.

Having a designated space for these activities can make a significant difference. Whether it's a cozy corner with your favorite blanket or a serene spot by a window, these small but intentional choices can have a big impact on your mental health, helping you feel more grounded and at ease.

In the kitchen, organizing healthy foods at the front of the pantry can encourage healthier eating habits, especially during stressful times. Creating a workout space in your home, whether it's with a treadmill or weights, can make exercise more accessible and enjoyable.

Lighting and comfort are two other ways to enhance your mental space. Having adequate lighting with the right temperature (such as white, more yellow, or blue light) that works best for your eyes is crucial. Being comfortable with the amount and type of light, such as incandescent or LED, can significantly impact your well-being. Many people can suffer from headaches or migraines with fluorescent lighting. Additionally, the warmth or coolness of a space can affect how you feel while in it, further influencing your mental wellbeing.

Designing your space to promote mental wellbeing is about finding what works for you. It may take some experimentation, but creating a space that is both functional and supportive of your mental health is worth the effort.

If you need help with your project or designing a space that promotes mental health, feel free to book a discovery call. I'm here to help you create a space that is not only great for your mental health but also contributes to a healthier planet.