Love your space, invest in your wellbeing
Tips to show your space a little more love
February, the month of ‘love’ is upon us and Valentine’s Day is fast approaching which got me thinking that for one day a year, we usually do something extra special for that special person in our lives. But what about our homes? Why love your home? What does loving your home or space mean? Can showing your space some love actually benefit your wellbeing?
What is your home after all? Is it merely a structure in which you live and fill with your belongings? Or is it more than that?
Creating cosy memories
For me it’s a place where memories are made; a place where we can grow and change; a place where we can relax and have fun; a place where we feel safe and that we use as the foundation of our lives when we step out into the world. Now if that’s the case, loving our homes aka looking after our spaces, definitely does benefit us and our general well-being.
Are you willing to take charge of your wellbeing (and your family’s) by taking some time to invest in your space, and thereby invest in you and your family to create that happy place that you all look forward to coming home to?
Just like in any relationship, when you give love, that love is reciprocated – the same applies to your space, your home will love you back. It will support you and grow with you until it’s time for you to part ways and move on.
Think of loving your home as an act of loving yourself. We all know that if we neglect ourselves, both physically and emotionally, we can become anxious, depressed, and even burnt out but if we look after ourselves, then we are so much better equipped to handle life and the challenges we sometimes face.
So how do you show your space some love?
As an interior designer, I often work with spaces that have been neglected and that are yearning for some time, attention, care, and … LOVE.
We are happy to invest time and money when we purchase or rent our homes, often even more so when it comes to fittings and furnishings. We may even invest in the services of an Interior Designer if we’re able to.
Everything in its place
Our homes do need constant TLC which can take the form of decorating, cleaning, decluttering, and organising. Sometimes we may feel some resistance here, as this all seems to be like something else to do on a never-ending to-do list, which more often than not is on repeat!
But … think back to when you have done some decorating, cleaning, decluttering and organising. Remember that satisfied feeling when everything is tidy or when your space is sparkling? You have just shown your home and yourself some love, you’re saying that my family and I deserve to live in a space that is organised and that feels great. This improves mood and ultimately your experience of being at home, from one of discontent to peace, contentment and joy.
Let’s look at some ways in which you can enjoy the process of loving your space a little more. If you can find a way to enjoy the process, you’ll be more inclined to show your home some of that love and ultimately boost those happy vibes.
Below are some ideas to help you do just that.
Cleaning your space
Cleaning is the most effective and simple way to love your space. The thought of cleaning for hours (as well as the act of cleaning for hours) is definitely unappealing for so many of us, so how about having a go at short bursts of cleaning- cleaning as you go? I did find cleaning a chore, but after reading, Sweeping Changes, I now view it very differently. Cleaning is often a meditative experience for me now and what I also do is infuse each room with an intention when I clean. Consider it as an opportunity to be present in your space, knowing that as you clean, you are creating a harmonious space for yourself and your family, a space filled with love.
Maintaining your space
As in any relationship, we need to maintain it to keep things from deteriorating. Have a look at all the tasks you may have been putting off and allocate some time to showing your home a little TLC. Perhaps your list includes the following: replacing blown lightbulbs, unpacking some boxes, hanging some art that has been leaning against a wall for months, oiling that squeaky door hinge, steaming the wrinkles out of your curtains, touching up scuffs on walls or skirting boards, filling in holes where you’ve removed art. Think of this as an act of love and kindness for an old friend.
Refresh your space
You could also consider a few small refresh ideas like wallpapering one wall for a completely different look, repainting your front door, reupholstering a chair, recovering the sofa, new cushions for the sofa, new lampshades or light fittings.
The key here is to do one small thing at a time. Keep it simple and realistic making the process enjoyable, giving you a little boost of those happy endorphins every time.
Decluttering your space
We often think of decluttering as letting go of things, yes, this is what ultimately happens but it’s also learning to cherish what we do have.
It’s no secret that objects can carry meaning as we associate memories with them, and they can make us feel a certain way. Choosing to keep these items and having them on display allows us to get maximum pleasure from them but if you’ve been hanging on to something—like a hand-me-down piece of furniture or a gift from an ex—because you felt guilty about saying goodbye, it may be time to finally let it go. Items that we hold onto ultimately no longer bring us joy. They keep us from curating a space we truly love.
So, let’s surround ourselves with items that reflect happy memories. Sorting through our belongings and the items we’ve accumulated can become daunting if not done regularly. So that this process isn’t too overwhelming- a little at a time is key- even 20 minutes a day will make a difference.
Organising your space
We may find that before we declutter, we feel we need more storage. This can be a sign that you’ve either outgrown your space or that creative storage ideas are required. My advice would always be to declutter first, before making storage decisions, for example, if an extra shoe rack or wardrobe is needed. Just as with cleaning, little bursts of sorting and decluttering, all help to organise a space and keep it organised.
Being grateful for your space
I know this may sound a little woo-woo, but having gratitude and accepting the little quirks your home has (which is probably one of the reasons you fell in love with it in the first place) will also help with how you feel about your space. Just as with a partner, love the foibles - love that strange little window or that funny-shaped little area that is too small for any furniture. Could you instead use it to showcase some art or is it a perfect place for your plants?
Maybe, you’d even like to write your home a love letter, setting out all the things you’re grateful for. You may even be inspired by some new design ideas!
What else can you do to love your space?
We buy flowers for a loved one, so why not buy some flowers for your home too? Flowers and plants boost mood and reduce stress levels. Plants fill our homes with life, colour and energy. Choose your favourite flowers or plants to add to your space - poppies, daffodils and hyacinths will soon be available.
Another favourite for loved ones is fragrances and candles. Fragrances like burning oils, a diffuser or fragranced candles lift our spirits. Candles also have a beautiful soft glow that adds romance and ambience to any space.
Add some romance with flowers and candles.
Relax and enjoy your space, embrace your design style, and create a space that is cosy and loved by you and your family. You’ll feel happy, your space will be happy and feel sparkly and your well-being will have increased.
I do hope you’ve enjoyed reading these suggestions. Remember that the more love you show your space, the more it will love you back!
If you know that your home needs some serious TLC, and you’re feeling overwhelmed with where to start, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. I’d love to work with you to transform your space into one you love spending time in.
I certainly hope that you enjoy the Love Your Space process and that you will start to feel the well-being benefits that I know are possible.
Wishing you and your space a very happy Valentine’s Day.
Chantal
Need a little more inspiration? Have a look at the Love Your Space Ideas shopping board below. Have fun curating a space that looks good and feels great.
