Using Interior Design to Reduce Anxiety
In today’s fast-paced world, anxiety disorder, ADHD, and depression plague our workforce and home life. It can often feel too overwhelming to deal with all the responsibilities of life when these take over. As a designer, I become more and more passionate about finding solutions to these problems through the use of good design. Our internal thoughts, feelings, even our physical health is deeply impacted by our external environment - far more than most people know. To counteract this negativity and help reduce anxiety, there are a number of actions we can take to cultivate spaces that are both comfortable and rejuvenating to help lift us out of a funk.
1. Harmonious Color Choices
Color has a profound impact on our emotions and can significantly influence our mood. To reduce anxiety and promote a sense of peace and calm, opt for gentle and soothing colors such as soft blues, pleasant greens, and warm neutrals. These hues evoke a sense of tranquility and promote a peaceful atmosphere. You can use these colors through wall paint, upholstery, or accessories to create a serene ambiance that nurtures relaxation. If you typically gravitate toward more vibrant color tones, you can use these sparingly through smaller accents to infuse your style while still creating a calmer environment. Colors such as orange and yellow have been shown to increase appetite, while reds, pinks, and purples help to energize and inspire creativity and productivity.
2. Natural Elements and Biophilic Design
As human beings, we are intrinsically tied to the earth and can feel rejuvenated and reborn when we truly connect with nature in its purest forms. Bringing nature indoors has been shown to have numerous benefits for our mental well-being. Incorporate natural elements into your interior design through the use of potted plants, natural materials like wood and stone, or even scenic artwork depicting landscapes. Biophilic design connects us to the natural world, reduces anxiety, and enhances our overall sense of well-being. Snake plants are great for helping purify the air and can fit in small spaces like bookshelves or end tables, and a Bird of Paradise plant is an excellent design element to add height and visual interest to a space!
3. Mindful Furniture Arrangements
The layout and arrangement of furniture in a space will have a noticeable impact on the flow and energy within a room. To reduce anxiety, create an open and uncluttered environment by organizing furniture in a way that promotes easy movement and clear pathways. Select furniture with soft curves and rounded edges, as they can help create a more soothing and relaxed atmosphere, and make sure to include plenty of places to store items. Clutter can increase anxiety, and making sure you have a place to put everything can help reduce stress and mental load. Choosing furniture with built in storage options is also an excellent way to maximize space and minimize clutter.
4. Thoughtful Lighting Choices
Proper lighting is essential for creating a calming interior space. Incorporate a variety of lighting sources including natural light, soft ambient lighting, and task lighting to create a well-balanced environment. Consider installing smart bulbs dimmers to control the intensity of light and create a soothing atmosphere during different times of the day. A well-lit space can positively impact your mood and overall sense of calmness and help reduce your anxiety without you even noticing!
Remember, designing a calming interior space is a journey that requires mindfulness and intentionality. By implementing these design tips and incorporating elements that promote relaxation, you can transform your home into a peaceful haven that nurtures your well-being and helps reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, or attention-deficit disorders.
If you feel like your home could benefit from a redesign with mental health in mind but you’re not sure where to start, schedule a consultation with our design team for some guidance and inspiration! We would love to help you!
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