There’s been a real shift over the last few years when it comes to spare rooms and maximising the space. Where once they would simply act as spare rooms or home offices, we’re being more productive and creative with them, particularly as more and more of us begin to focus on our mental health.
Having a space to focus on our mental health can be really beneficial these days and if you’re lucky enough to have a spare room in your home, then creating a room that can boost your mood can be incredibly powerful.
We live in an age where more of us are suffering. There are more people entering a rehab clinic as the drug and alcohol pandemic continues to grow, while today over 970 million people worldwide live with some form of mental disorder. Having a space where you can concentrate on your mental health can not only be a prevantative measure, but also one that can help manage conditions too.
Of course, there are many options when it comes to transforming your space into a relaxing one, so to help you decide on what to do with yours, here are five great options…
Zen Yoga Studio
A yoga studio is an excellent option, especially if it is something you do practice. Yoga is something that’s actively encouraged by counsellors and professionals in the space, and it can be really help find a balance in body and mind.
Yoga does require an airy space, so having somewhere dedicated to the practice can be really useful and help you truly escape. Clear out the clutter from the room to make it as open and airy as possible, while adding soft lighting and maximising natural light where you can is useful. Decorate the room with elements of nature and get the right equipment installed, most notably adding a yoga mat and accessories such as bolsters and blocks. From there, you’re good to go!
Tranquil Reading Retreat
Reading can provide a real escape for people and allow you to immerse yourself in a different world. A reading retreat is pretty straightforward to add to your home. Essentially, all you need is plenty of shelving for your books, and somewhere comfortable to sit. Creating a snug to sit on read is a good idea, with a comfortable reading chair, plenty of cushions, throws and blankets to really get cosy and spend hours truly escaping from the stresses of life.
Additional extras can include soft lighting as well as some drinks making facilities. After all, what’s better than reading with a cup of tea and a biscuit?
Meditation Oasis
Similar to yoga, meditation is becoming a key practice in managing mental health and you don’t need much to turn your space into somewhere to meditate. You need a clutter free environment, as well as soft lighting and a room with decor that evokes a sense of tranquility and nature.
Incorporating comfortable cushions or a meditation bench is a must, as this will allow you to sit comfortably for an extended period of time, while you can add bits of technology to get a soothing soundscape, or even a television to follow online meditation classes, although this may also kill the vibe a little. Finally, create a focal point in the room, perhaps a piece of artwork, a sculpture or a candle to help you anchor your attention and really focus on the present.
Soothing Spa Retreat
A little more extravagant, transforming your room into a spa retreat where you can really indulge in self-care is a daily treat that can boost your mood significantly. Decor wise, you want to set the mood with soft lighting, calming scents and relaxing music, while soft greens and blues should dominate the walls. Add plush towels, robes and slippers for that real spa feel, while you should set aside an area for all your products to allow you to sit back and pamper yourself.
If you have the budget, you could even consider amenities such as steam showers, whirlpool baths, home saunas or massage tables to take your home retreat to another level.
Creative Arts Studio
Finally, if you find unleashing your creative side can improve your mental health, an arts studio is really simple to turn your spare room into. All you need to do is set up a designated work area and the equipment you need to take part in the creative practice you want, whether that be pottery, painting or anything else.
Adding inspirational work to the walls can be a good idea, while you still want it to have an overall relaxed feel so soothing colours on the wall, soft lighting and something to play soothing music can be helpful. Aside from that, the world is your oyster.
