VeryWellMind: How to Optimize Your Space For Your Mental Health
“While there are many ways to improve your mental health including therapy, meditation, exercise, hobbies, a healthy diet, and time spent with loved ones, there are also small things we can do to create a shift in our mood.
One of those small things is tweaking the space in which we live and work. These small changes and tweaks can make a world of difference in your overall mental well-being.
From incorporating fresh plants to removing clutter, consider making the following interior design changes that are scientifically proven to improve your mental health.”
Bring in Sunlight
“We know that being outside in the sunshine increases your production of vitamin D, helps regulate your sleep through melatonin levels, and improves your mood,” says Tracy Nathanson, LCSW, MA, and founder of Pace of Mind Therapy. The science behind feeling good in the sun is that increased exposure to sunlight enhances the brain’s production of serotonin, also known as the mood-lifting chemical.”
“Conversely, not getting enough natural light can result in both physiological and sleep issues and depressive symptoms.”
Remove Clutter
“There are some people who claim they thrive amid the chaos, but for the bulk of us that’s not the case. Clutter can actually have a negative impact on our mental state—and perhaps in more ways than you’d assume
For instance, clutter can make it difficult to find things quickly in a pinch, create a feeling of embarrassment, and generally cause distraction or a sense of feeling weighed down”
Incorporate Art
“When selecting décor items, choose at least a few different items that make you feel happy. Different things spark joy for different people, so there’s really no wrong way to do this. For example, you might want to incorporate a painting or print of a landscape that makes you feel calm when you look at it.”
Add Plants
“Plants can reduce stress and boost productivity. For example, a 2015 study that appeared in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology concluded that being in proximity to indoor plants and looking at them can reduce stress levels and help you feel calmer.”
My Thoughts
I have to admit, prior to coming across this article, I didn’t give much thought to my work/living environment aside from the decluttering aspect. Also, a couple winters ago, I did buy one of those artificial lights that really seemed to help me make it through the relative lack of sunlight. And while I wouldn’t say that I am super into plants, I can definitely see the connection there in regards to reduced stress levels.
In what ways have you all optimized your living/work spaces to create an environment towards your mental health?
Read the full article here.
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@sereneSunset26 So this is something that I really need to work on. I'm a very clean person, but my room has so much clutter right now because I came home from college and I didn't have a lot of space to put all my stuff. I need to go through my closet and organize my clothes especially!!
@fruityPond7887
I can relate to that; it's pretty amazing to me how much better I seem to feel when I *do* clean/tidy up. I usually take preventive measures so things don't get too bad, but I could certainly do better at the maintenance aspect of optimizing my living spaces.
@sereneSunset26 Preventative is the best! It's hard to break out of the cycle when things pile up because we can become overwhelmed and it can be difficult to realize that we can always do a little at a time. Starting is the hardest part!!
Sansevieria are a good low maintenance plant! They can be in the same house as cats, but don't let them chew it!
Silver Inch Plants are pretty good if you can get some sun in your house. Also don't let cats chew them, but my cat didn't get sick after eating a large portion after knocking it over.
I'm not great with plants, but I'm finding some that can live with me. I don't have a lot of direct sunlight or good organizational habits. (I love organization on my great days, but it gets overwhelming even on good days after a stretch of bad)
I recommend having a bunch of hampers for laundry. I have Can be worn again, Regular Dirty, and Hang to dry Dirty hampers. It makes it easier when I do get the energy to do laundry because I don't need to sort it out.
I also try to put one thing at least closer to it's place every time I get up. Sort of like things are hitchhiking with me.
My cats both help and severely hinder my mental health living. They bring me so much joy, but so many extra chores. I have an automatic litter box, automatic feeders, and filtered water fountains. Having the automation helps me when I have a bad week or go on vacation. It also gives them comfot and a set schedule. I do still clean the fountains, box, and feeders on my good days. However, they still have poor timing on feeling sick, needing brushing, and other care needs. Honestly their need for snuggles gets me out of bed on my days off.
My decor style is very anti minimalist, but it's what makes me happy. I want to be surrounded by felt birds, trinkets, and color. I know it can get a little overwhelming when there's too much stuff, but it all reminds me of all the good stuff in the world.