In these hectic times, creating a space where you can feel relaxed, safe, and calm is more important than ever. There are many steps that you can take to create Zen at home. Redecorate and declutter the environment, such as hiding your electronics, use neutral tones and bring nature indoors. Some are easy changes, while others may take more time and consideration. But trust us, the changes are worth it.
To help you get started, we have collated some of our top tips to help create your Zen home. Let’s take a look.
#1: Declutter and Simplify
One of the first steps to creating a more Zen home is decluttering. Remove possessions that you do not need or use. Find a space for those books, papers, and random items that are just laying around.
Zen décor is about minimalism and clean lines - creating visual clarity and simplicity. The art of decluttering has grown in popularity in recent years, with the likes of Marie Kondo gaining a large following. By removing anything from your home that you do not need, you are not only decluttering the environment around you, but you are also helping declutter the mind.
#2: Use Natural Colors
When looking at Zen décor ideas, you may realize that most of the tones included in example rooms are softer earthy tones that are both calming and match with nature. Painting walls with neutral but welcoming tones such as a warm white, beige, light brown, or sage green helps promote peace in your environment, allowing you to be more relaxed when at home. You can use bright colors as accents, but not for the whole room.
#3: Bring Nature Indoors
One key part of Zen living is to connect and be at peace with nature Include some plants and greenery in your indoor environment. Studies have shown that plants within the home have a therapeutic effect, helping to reduce feelings of anxiety and stress and enhancing a person’s wellbeing.
As plants take in carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and release oxygen, they will also benefit the air quality in your home. Both The American Society of Horticultural Science and NASA conducted studies in this area and identified plant varieties such as spider plants, golden pothos, and snake plants are the most beneficial. Bring in the greenery and feel better and breathe better!
#4: Utilize Soft Lighting
For a Zen-like atmosphere in your home, then use soft lighting rather than bright, harsh bulbs. While bright light can boost your energy levels and make you feel more awake, you want to create a Zen environment where you can relax and practice calm.
Take a look at the existing lighting that you have, and replace any fluorescent lightbulbs with dimming ones where you can adjust the intensity. Having multiple lights within the room, such as the ceiling light, floor lamps, and table lamps, will allow you to change the lighting levels to match your activity.
If you are looking to create a true Zen room while practicing meditation, for example, you may want to add candles to your décor that will create ambient and subtle lighting.
#5: Create A Good Foundation
Flooring within your Zen space is also an important choice period. Again, it is important to stick to neutral tones that will create a relaxing environment. Using natural materials such as wood or wool will create a comfortable atmosphere, with wool providing higher levels of comfort. Strive for softness under foot either with a carpet or accent rugs. Only use floor coverings with natural fibers if you can.
#6: Integrate Natural and Simple Furniture
Zen décor, in general, focuses on natural materials and clean and simple lines, avoiding clutter and extravagance. Your furniture choices should also reflect this. Chose furniture with a sleek, plain design that avoids too much detail.
High-quality furniture made from natural materials such as wood or wicker helps bring nature into the space too. Consider the addition of good storage furniture such as drawers to hide possessions that you need but do not need to display, as this will make your home look less cluttered. Again, avoid brighter shades instead opting for more neutral tones
Place your sofas and beds near natural light so that you can bask in natural light while you use them. Use softer fabrics on these pieces for added comfort. Adding a few carefully curated accessories such as throws and pillows can help create a comfortable, soft environment while still following Zen décor.
#7: Utilize Essential Oils
Aromatherapy uses essential oils to reinforce the energy you want in your space. For the Zen home, choose relaxing essential oils such as lavender or oils that relieve anxiety such as Rose or Chamomile. Lavender is one of our favorites. It has a number of benefits for the body, such as lowering blood pressure, which can lead to physical calmness alongside mental calmness.
#8: Switch Off and Limit Electrical Devices
Completely Zen décor does not include many electrical devices such as TVs and computers as they are a distraction and can take up your time and energy. This can be unrealistic, however, with the demands of modern day life. If you need to have your TV in a particular room, try to hide it in an entertainment center or put it in an area that is not the center of attention. We also love the fireplace television stands. Make sure that all wires are hidden to create a clean look.
Your home should be your safe space, where you can relax at the end of a hard day, recharging your batteries, allowing yourself to feel a sense of calm. Zen décor is a great way to achieve this feeling, allowing you to transform your space from a busy environment to a calming paradise where you truly feel at peace.
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