Can wood improve your mental wellbeing and help you be more mindful at home?
Do you feel busier than ever?
In our fast-paced lives, finding the time to engage in activities that support our mental wellbeing can be a source of stress in and of itself.
Spending time in nature has proven benefits, including lower levels of stress, greater control over our attention and improved mood. When scheduling time to go for nature-walks just simply isn’t possible, thankfully, you can reap the benefits of being in a natural environment by bringing the outside, inside.
What is a mindful home?
A mindful home is one that promotes wellbeing and connection; a space to rest and rejuvenate. A mindful home supports you to fully engage in life when leaving it to go to work or socialise.
Establishing a tranquil environment at home not only enhances the aesthetic value of the space but also fosters a positive and healthy lifestyle for you and your family.
How do I build a mindful home?
Embarking on a journey to embrace mindfulness within the comfort of your own home starts with incorporating natural elements into your living space. The idea is to bring the outside world inside and reap the benefits of spending time in natural environments without having to specifically dedicate time to it.
Modern designs increasingly integrate wood, greenery and other natural components, particularly in environments that promote healing and well-being, such as hospitals, aged care facilities and schools.
A report titled “Wood: Nature Inspired Design” examines multiple studies that reveal how exposure to plants and natural materials like wood in building interiors amplifies one’s sense of well-being. In some cases, it even reduces blood pressure, indicating a decrease in stress levels.
By incorporating visible wood in the structure, finishings, and furniture of your home, you can transform your space into an inviting sanctuary that promotes restoration.
Timber has a unique ability to convey a sense of rest, warmth and security that is often challenging to achieve with other materials. Additionally, unlike many other resources, timber is renewable. Opting for sustainably sourced timber certified through the Responsible Wood or Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) schemes allows you to make an informed choice, knowing those products originate from responsibly managed forests and plantations. Thankfully, most Australian timber is certified.
Incorporating natural materials establishes a profound connection with nature within your home, fostering a calming and rejuvenating environment to retreat to after a demanding day. These natural design features can create “micro-moments of positivity” which add up over time.
Interior Design for Mental Wellbeing
Interior design has captured the hearts of many Australians, fuelled by popular television shows like Grand Designs Australia, and The Block, along with an abundance of inspiration on social media platforms such as Pinterest and Instagram.
Nordic-style choices, with their fresh and minimalist approach, have gained significant popularity. Scandinavian design philosophy, characterized by timber, minimalism, and neutral colour palettes aligns perfectly with the creation of a mindful home.
Scandinavian design is just one way to use wood as the foundation for a mindful living space. Wood’s versatility as a decorating material allows you to explore a wide range of beautiful finishes and tones that complement your chosen style.
According to Anne Reagan, the author of The Spruce blog, “real” materials like wood are timeless because they not only endure but also develop character over time.
Central to mindfulness is the concept of being ‘in the moment’. If being surrounded by natural materials reduces our levels of stress and improves our attention, we have a greater ability to mindfully and intentionally be engaged with what we’re doing.
Natural Elements are the Natural Choice
In our fast-paced lives, it is crucial to pay attention to how our daily routines and surroundings impact our well-being. Your habits and the spaces where you spend the most time can greatly influence your mood, focus, and energy levels. By investing in quality, sustainable, and inspiring materials and furniture, you can transform your home into a cozy and serene haven.
Creating a mindful home is not just about aesthetics; it is about nurturing your well-being and embracing a more balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. By integrating natural elements and sustainable materials, you can transform your home into a sanctuary that rejuvenates your mind, body, and spirit—a space where you can find solace and truly thrive.
Whether you are building a new home, planning a renovation or contemplating sprucing up your interiors, selecting natural and sustainable materials will enhance your home and living experience.