5 SIMPLE STEPS TO REDUCE STRESS IN YOUR HOME

In today's fast-paced world, stress is on the rise, impacting both mental and physical health. But did you know your home, a space often considered a private sanctuary from the external world, may be contributing to that stress?

The air quality, lighting, layout, colors, and even clutter in your home can significantly affect your well-being.

While some home improvements require a bigger investment, there are simple changes you can make right now to reduce stress and improve sleep—both essential for boosting your immune system and overall general well-being.

Below are five easy ways to enhance your indoor living space and promote a healthier mind:

Pic via @AmyRushbrook Photo

1. Improve Air Quality (IAQ) in the Home

Studies have shown that poor indoor air quality is linked to headaches, tiredness, lethargy, and to more severe effects including aggravation of allergies and asthma. Improving ventilation in the home can help reduce the build-up of air pollutants that accumulate over time indoors.

While you may not own an air-purifier, there are simple ways ventilation can be improved. Open windows, even just a small amount, to let air flow in regularly (provided you live in an area where outdoor air quality is reasonable).

Reduce air moisture by ensuring when you shower a window is open and, where clothes are dried indoors place them near an open window to allow moisture to escape.

Always use the overhead exhaust when cooking to help extract toxins emitted through cooking.

Removing shoes when entering the home, and regularly vacuuming rugs and floor surfaces to remove dust particles also plays a role in removing toxins from entering your home.

2. De-Clutter your Space

Clutter isn't just an eyesore—it can affect your productivity, focus, and stress levels. Minimalism, made popular by Marie Kondo, emphasizes the psychological benefits of an organized space. Start by tackling cluttered areas and create systems that work for you. Once you begin, you might find yourself wanting to overhaul other areas too.

Get the whole family involved, especially the kids! Encourage them to donate toys or items they no longer use. If you're struggling with where to start, professional organizers or online courses can guide you.

By making these small changes, you can create a more peaceful home that supports your overall wellbeing.

The Organised Wardrobe via Shira Gill

3. Optimise Lighting to Support your Internal Body Clock (Circadian Rhythm)

Did you know the lighting in your home can impact your sleep?

The color and intensity of light play a big role in regulating your body’s circadian rhythm—your internal 24-hour clock that controls when you feel awake and when you get sleepy.

Our bodies naturally respond to light, so it's important to make the most of natural daylight during the day. For evenings, when using artificial light, pay attention to the color and brightness. Bright, cool-toned blue lights (like those often found in screens or overhead lighting) can trick your body into thinking it’s daytime, making it harder to wind down for sleep.

To create a more restful evening atmosphere, try dimming overhead lights or turning them off completely. Instead, opt for lamps with warm-colored bulbs. This helps signal to your brain that it's time to relax and prepare for sleep.

By making these small adjustments, you can support your body’s natural rhythm and enjoy a more restful night’s sleep.

4. Bring Nature Indoors

Biophilic design is all about connecting your indoor environment with nature, and it’s been scientifically shown to lower blood pressure, reduce heart rate, and decrease stress.

You can easily incorporate biophilic principles into your home for a more calming and restorative space. Start by placing your home workspace near windows with outdoor views. This simple shift can help you feel more connected to the natural world.

Adding indoor plants is another great way to bring nature inside. They not only help to purify the air but also create a peaceful atmosphere. Even small touches, like growing herbs on a windowsill, can enhance the natural feel of your home.

Try displaying natural materials, too. For example, wooden chopping boards arranged in your kitchen can add warmth and texture. Embracing natural elements, colors, and shapes throughout your home can help lower stress and promote a sense of wellbeing.

This kitchen by Nordic designer Nordiska Kok illustrates the calming feel of earthy tones and materials, paired with an abundance of natural and seamless connection to the outdoors.

5. Celebrate What Sparks “Joy” in Your Home

In today's "insta-worthy" world, it’s easy to forget that your home should reflect you—not just what's trendy online. Personal items that make you smile, or as Marie Kondo says, “spark joy,” often get tucked away, but they deserve to be celebrated.

Don’t design your home for others—design it for yourself and your family. Display those things that make your space feel truly yours: a family gallery wall, your kids’ creative art, a favourite print, or a beloved piece of furniture. These personal touches bring warmth and happiness to your everyday life.

Look around—are there items hidden away that could give you a little happiness boost if displayed?

Kitchen from our Lake Wendouree “Project Colourful Nostalgia” that incorporates shelving to display vignettes of some of the client’s personal collections which spark joy and hold personal meaning to her.

In today’s fast paced world there are many aspects of our environment that impact our stress levels, however making the above simple adjustments can help you ensure your home is not exacerbating, but rather reducing the stress load placed on your body.

At Inhabitat Interiors well-being is core to our design framework and we love creating spaces that don’t just look beautiful but enable people to thrive. If you are interested in learning more about our processes and how we can help you with your home renovation or new build get in touch!