By: Lance Cody-Valdez
Many individuals use their homes for work and relaxation, but it can be difficult to create an environment that is ideal for both. Fortunately, making a few meaningful changes in certain areas allows you to optimize your residence for all your needs.
Work
Data show that remote work is becoming a permanent feature of the economy. This means that home offices are becoming increasingly prevalent. If you want to maximize productivity and minimize stress, design your work area carefully. Choose a quiet area away from pets and children to minimize interruptions. Remove distractions from the room, or put them in a drawer or cabinet to take out for breaks.
Stock the office with all necessary tools. Make sure your modem and router are powerful enough that you are able to work steadily. When furnishing your office, select furniture carefully to optimize your comfort. Choose a desk chair that is supportive, and consider a standing desk so that you can alternate between sitting and standing. Purchase a keyboard and mouse that do not hurt your wrists. Invest in lighting that does not strain your eyes.
Relax
If you are one of the many individuals for whom clutter causes anxiety, decluttering your home will make it calmer and more comfortable. Go through your house one room at a time, and gather up all the items that you no longer need or want. Then donate, recycle or throw them away. If your home is still visually cluttered after cleaning out, invest in storage and organizational products that allow you to keep items out of sight.
Don’t overlook the importance of color when creating a relaxing home. Choose pleasant, calming hues for wall colors and decor. Bringing in some greenery, whether through live or artificial plants, allows you to experience some of nature’s calming effect.
Display photographs and knickknacks that evoke fond memories. Consider adding cozy blankets and pillows to sitting areas. If nature sounds or mellow music calm you, play those sounds through a streaming service or old-fashioned CD. Focus less on the latest design trends and more on making sure your home is a safe retreat.
Sleep
A restful night’s sleep keeps stress at bay and prepares you for productivity the next day, so a good sleeping environment is essential. Optimize your bedroom for sleep by keeping it cool and dark. Blackout curtains are helpful for those who sleep during daylight hours or live in bright areas. Adjust the thermostat or your bedding to keep from getting too warm while sleeping. If noises keep you awake, purchase a box fan or white noise machine to drown out pesky sounds. Keep other electronics in a different room to keep from being woken up by notifications and blinking lights.
Select a mattress that is both supportive and comfortable. If a new mattress is not in your budget, a good topper can revive your old bed. Select a pillow that works with your sleep position. A sunrise alarm clock improves your sleep by waking you up more naturally.
The more time you spend in your home, the greater effect it has on your overall quality of life. If you use your home for both work and relaxation, it should accommodate both. Fortunately, a few small changes can make a big impact.
