In todays fast-paced world, its easy for homes and workspaces to become chaotic. Whether it’s the daily influx of papers, clothes that don’t quite make it back into the closet, or digital clutter that follows us everywhere, clutter can easily take over. But, a decluttered environment isn’t just about tidying up, it’s about creating a space that promotes calm, relaxation, and focus. When your surroundings are peaceful, your mind can be too.
Here are some effective ways to create a calm, decluttered environment that nurtures your well-being:
- Declutter first: Less is More
Start small: begin with one areas (like a desk or wardrobe) and gradually work your way through the rest of the house. It’s less overwhelming and more manageable this way.
Minimalism: Embrace the minimalist approach. The fewer items you have, the less cluttered and stressed your environment will feel.
- Utilise smart storage solutions
Furniture with hidden storage: choose items like storage ottomans, coffee table with drawers, or beds with built-in draws. These are perfect for stashing things out of sight but still within reach.
Categorise storage: use clear bins or labelled baskets to store similar items together; like office supplies, toys, or seasonal clothing. A categorised system helps keep everything in place and makes it easy to find what you need.
Declutter digital spaces: don’t forget about digital clutter. Organise files (I really need to do this one! Personal reminder*!), emails, and desktop icons regularly to prevent them from piling up.
- Embrace natural light
Open curtains: Opt for sheer curtains or blinds that allow natural light to filter through wile still offering privacy. Coming from a person that has a bedroom that misses natural light, has blackout blinds, and blackout curtains (so sheer stuff wouldn’t make a difference if I tried – add solution e.g. a certain light can help but can only go so far, leave your personal nook and experience the natural light in the kitchen or living room!
Reflective surfaces: mirrors can amplify natural light, making rooms feel larger and brighter. Consider adding a mirror to your entryway or living room to help bounce light around the room.
- Choose a calm colour palette
Soft neutrals: light grays, whites, beige, and soft blues are ideal for creating a tranquil space. These tones have a calming effect and can make rooms feel more open.
Accents only: while vibrant colours can energise a space, keep them minimal. Use bold hues as accent colours in throw pillows, artwork, or a single statement wall to add interest without overwhelming the senses. As the saying goes, less is more.
- Create functional zones (my favourite revamping task for the slow living lifestyle and mindful practice!)
Designated areas: create clear spaces for work, relaxation, dining, and sleep. This can help keep your environment organized and prevent distractions.
Use dividers; If you live in a studio apartment or shared space, use rugs, bookshelves, or room dividers to separate areas and create a sense of privacy.
- Keep décor simple and meaningful
Less is more: avoid over-decorating by selecting a few key pieces that are both functional and beautiful, such as a statement lamp, a favourite painting, or a cozy throw blanket!
Personal touches: add meaningful personal items that have positive associations, like family photos in minimalist frames or heirlooms that add sentimental value. Greenery: Incorporate plants to add life to your space. Not only do plants purify the air, but their natural presence promotes relaxation and a sense of calm.
Extra: Natural textures: materials like wood, linen, cotton, and stone for furniture, textiles, and accessories. These materials feel organic and help create a balanced, calming environment.
- Create a daily cleaning ritual
Daily reset: At the end of each day, take a few minutes to straighten up your space. Put away stray items, wipe down surfaces, and make sure everything is in its place. This daily reset prevents clutter from accumulating. Extra: too tired after a long day? Set a reminder to do yesterdays cleaning tomorrow! (or just buy a rumba!)
Weekly deep clean: dedicate time each week to clean thoroughly. Vacuuming, dusting, and cleaning bathrooms not only keeps your space fresh but helps you stay on top of the clutter.
- Reduce noise pollution
Soundproofing: Use heavy curtains, rugs, or acoustic panels to absorb noise, particularly in areas like home offices or bedrooms.
Calming sounds: add gentle background noise through white noise machines, nature sounds, or soothing music to mask external disturbances.
- Mindfully control your digital environment (my biggest obstacle!)
Organise files: Keep your desktop and digital files organised with folders and a well-maintained file system.
Unsubscribe from emails: Regularly declutter your email inbox by subscribing from unnecessary newsletters and promotions.
Limited screen time: set boundaries around screen use, especially in the evening. Designate tech-free zones or times to unwind without digital distractions.
- Add calming scents (my friend never skips this step! Soothing aspects and your house continuously smells great, also not artificial so sustainable too! – the wicks make it so).
Essential oils: use a diffuser with calming oils like lavender, chamomile, or eucalyptus to promote relaxation and clarity.
Candles: light a softly scented candle in the evening to create a serene ambiance. Choose natural was candles with soothing fragrances like vanilla, citrus, and sandlewood.
- Incorporate mindfulness into your space (link to slow living main article).
Create a meditation corner: if possible, set aside a small area of your home for meditation, journalling, or quiet reflection. Extra: don’t have to be confined to one area for meditation, you can practice this anywhere however, a comfy corner can be a welcomed supplement to the practice!
Simplify routines: a calm routine can help reduce stress. Keep your mornings and evenings simple and organised so that you can start and end your day with ease.
A calm and decluttered environment is a powerful tool for enhancing your well-being and creating a peaceful, productive life. By starting with decluttering, incorporating functional storage, and being mindful of colors, textures, and scents, you can transform you space into a sanctuary that nurtures your body and mind. With a little effort and intention, your home can become a haven of peace, order, and relaxation.
