You deserve a quiet refuge
Hopefully, by now, you have decided where you’d like to start and have done some decluttering. If not, that’s OK!
Let’s reframe it: instead of picking a spot to declutter pick a spot that will serve as your refuge. An entire room, a quiet corner or even a spacious closet that is just for you. Somewhere you can retreat to when you need to recharge, be creative or meditate.
I don’t know about you, but I have been known to lock myself in the pantry or bathroom just to get a few quite minutes to myself. How about you? Well, you deserve to have your own private oasis that can offer you clarity and rest, but let’s see if you can find somewhere better than the bathroom or pantry.
How to choose your spot
First and foremost, you’ll want to pick a room that offers privacy. If your family congregates in the kitchen, this probably isn’t the best spot for a private retreat. It’s also helpful if the spot offers quiet and calming surroundings.
You can always clear out the physical clutter, but if you hate the carpet or the wall color, you want to take that into consideration. A room with a door and that offers various lighting options are also some things to consider when choosing your retreat.
- A spot on the back patio or porch that is protected from the elements.
- A corner of your home office, away from your computer and other distractions.
- A cozy nook in the den or a walk-in closet.
- Your bedroom is meant for relaxation and recharging, so this would be a great spot for to designate as your refuge. Hopefully, it’s a quiet, private area where you can escape. However, if you share a bedroom or just prefer not to use your bedroom then let’s look at other options.
Today’s assignment
Pull out that journal and start planning. Tap into your senses and design your personal refuge:
- Sight: We are visual creatures, so lighting, colors, artwork and even decluttered surface areas can set the mood for your space. What do you want to see when you enter your refuge?
- Smell: Certain scents can release tension and mental overwhelm. Lavender, rosemary and peppermint have been associated with feelings of contentment and relaxation. What are your favorite scents and how can you incorporate them into your refuge; candles, diffusers, incense?
- Sound: Sometimes, the best sounds are no sounds at all. Find a spot in your home that is quiet. If that’s not always possible maybe you can put on head phones and listen to binaural music to help calm and relax you. What do you want to listen to; music, the birds outside, nothing at all?
- Touch: Soft, cozy textures add a calming element. A plush area rug to sit on or opulent bedding and cushy throw pillows can make your space inviting. What are your favorite textures and how can you include them in this space?
Be sure to add elements that hold special meaning to you. Maybe a nice desk and chair are important to you so you can journal. If you’re a tea lover, you could set up a cart with a hot plate, an assortment of nice teas and a favorite tea cup. Make the space your special area, and add your personal touches.
Today is about remembering that you deserve to de-stress and recharge. You can designate a spot in your home that is just for you. Carve out a day, a weekend or sometime soon to start creating this space. Make a commitment to yourself to make it happen. You are worth it!