Mindfulness Matters

Abode2 speaks to Rebecca Snowden, Interior Style Advisor at Furniture and Choice, to reveal four ways to effectively incorporate mindfulness into interior space, to aid a happier life

As we move deeper into the new year, embracing healthier habits and cleansing our lives and spaces has become a key focus for many. Ensuring personal space is organised and stress free is often a steppingstone into this new way of life.

The trend towards mindfulness shows no sign of slowing down; searches on the topic peaked in at the end of last year, seeing over 633,000 queries globally. Mindfulness is the basic ability to be fully aware of your surroundings, and not overly reactive to where you are or what you're doing. It can be practiced both mentally and physically, with interior décor being a keyway to inspire mindfulness, as a way of reducing stress and improving your quality of life.

Harmonious Colours

Rebecca explains: “When decorating your home, choose a colour palette which can be reinforced throughout each room seamlessly. Neutral and soft hues will help calm the mind, while opening up the space to create a sense of airiness.”

Once a colour palette has been chosen, it can be applied to the space through accent walls or a variety of rugs, throws and cushions which will also add texture and pattern to an otherwise blank space.

Minimize Clutter

A mindful space is a clean and tidy space. Minimizing clutter doesn’t mean you have to throw things out, it simply means keeping it stored away leaving minimal decoration, and décor that sparks joy.

Rebecca adds: “Using multifunctional furniture is key for maximising storage space and keeping unnecessary clutter out of sight and out of mind. For example, ottoman beds and footstools make for handy storage, while doubling up as beautiful furniture.”

Choose a Signature Scent

Engaging your sense of smell is an important aspect of mindfulness. Lavender, vanilla and geranium are all scents that can be infused into the home to creating a calming, soothing environment. Ideally, choose a scent which is special to you, that perhaps is reminiscent of a significant memory.

Rebecca comments: “Flowers, although they won’t last as long, offer a unique fresh fragrance, while candles and essential oils are more cost effective and come in a wider variety of scents. Candles, especially, can be kept for the night-time to add warmth to any room.”

Connect With Nature

Rebecca explains: “Finally, bring nature into the home to complete your mindful space. Through colour palettes of soft greens and neutral browns, you can gently transition natural elements into your interior space. “

Incorporating houseplants, whether that be large corner plants, or plants hanging from shelving units will add depth and individuality to your room. Alongside this, textured, natural fabrics such as seagrass, wool and linen will foster a connection with the outside world.

Rebecca concluded: “When seeking to make big changes in our lives, such as those we choose as new year's resolutions, it is important to take baby steps in achieving those goals. Our mindset is influenced by our surroundings and what we experience through all five senses.

“Home is where people begin and end their day, so creating a relaxing environment that positively activates the senses can be the catalyst to a healthier, positive mindset for many. Fill your personal space with fragrances you enjoy, décor that brings you peace and comfort, and most importantly keep it clean and clutter free”

www.furniturechoice.co.uk