1. Digital detox
Make it a rule that, at certain times of the day, electronics are banned – no phones, no screens, no TV. Mealtimes are perfect. “Gather around the table to share a dish together, resist technology interrupting and use the time to engage with loved ones,” suggests Tilly Roberts, Home Beautiful junior stylist. Pop the phone away at night-time, too; studies have shown the light from screens can disrupt our ability to drop off quickly, and affect the quality of essential sleep.
2. Contemplation
Create a tech-free space in your home to which you can retreat to read, meditate or relax. If possible, choose a spot with an opening window and good natural light. “Selecting light linen or sheer curtains, instead of heavy shutters, can also help bring in light,” says Justine Wilson, principal designer at Vault Interiors. “Promoting airflow will create a healthier home, as will natural light, as we all require Vitamin D.”
3. Colour
“To create a relaxed vibe use a colour palette that is fairly similar in both tone and colour, so it keeps things feeling open and fluid,” says Wendy Rennie of Haymes Paint.
4. Reuse, recycle
Reducing waste is not only good for the environment – knowing that you’re caring for the planet can help to create a personal sense of wellbeing, too. Cut back on plastics by investing in everyday items that you can use again and again, such as canvas shopping bags, reusable coffee cups and drink bottles.
5. Fragrance
Seek out aromas that have a calming influence, such as lavender, vanilla and rose, in the shape of dried flower sachets, essentials oils, scented candles or diffusers.
6. Cultivate a green scene
Bringing the outdoors in can have more than just a visual benefit, says Justine Wilson of Vault Interiors. “Not only are plants beautiful, they stimulate other senses as well; think about the fragrance of gardenias, jasmine or begonias,” she says. “Growing herbs in the kitchen is good for the tastebuds and smells divine. Certain plants also help wellbeing by improving air quality and purifying the air. Palms, ferns or orchids are good options.”
7. Sentimental Journey
Clearing clutter is an important step in creating a soothing aura in your surrounds. “Overcrowding of items can take away from the sense of your home as your sanctuary,” explains Tilly Roberts. “Have fewer items that mean a lot to you and that you love, and display them proudly on shelves where you get to appreciate them every day.”
8. Au naturel
For bedlinen, surround yourself in natural fabrics such as cotton and linen to help keep you cooler in summer and warmer in winter and contribute to that all-important good night’s sleep. “Collect linen in natural and muted tones to keep your bedroom calm and serene,” adds Tilly Roberts. Look for organically grown fabrics or cotton grown under the Better Cotton Initiative for extra sustainability points that will add to the feelgood factor.
9. Materials matter
"Wood is a dominant material with wellness design, along with recycled glass and earthy textures, such as stone," says Justine Wilson.
10. The quietness of colour
Relaxed, subtle hues create the perfect backdrop for a tranquil retreat, particularly important in the bedroom, where you need a sense of peace and serenity.
“My go-to colours to create a calming influence are pastels, whites and greys with warm tones,” says Wendy Rennie, of Haymes. “The other interesting combination is using a dark palette with low lighting as the ultimate time-out zone.”
