The impact of decor on mindfulness at work and home

The term mindfulness is used a lot nowadays and is perhaps most commonly used to refer to a psychological state of awareness. The art of mindfulness promotes practices that raise awareness, a character trait and a mode of processing information. People are being encouraged to hone their mindfulness practices to lead a healthier, less stressful lifestyle, and there are multiple ways of doing this, from the way you live and what you eat to the environment where you reside.

Mindfulness and decor

In regards to your environment, this influences mindfulness in multiple ways. Interior design can impact your perception, emotions, subconscious and even your train of thought. With this in mind, you should invest a serious amount of time into your home decor, as this will help to maximise the effect of your environment on your everyday life. In turn, this will maximise the effect of any mindfulness practices.

Colour schemes

The principles of colour technology state that the tones used throughout your home can impact not only your mood but also your cognitive function.

For example, grey and blue hues can promote peacefulness, making them a popular secondary colour in the busiest areas of your home, such as the kitchen and living room. On the other hand, red and orange shades are said to boost energy, as they symbolise passion; however, they should be used sparsely. White or shades of light grey are very popular nowadays, and such colours radiate calmness and purity, making them ideal for dimly-lit rooms or the smaller rooms of your home.

Home scents

One major aspect of a mindful home is familiarity, meaning that scent cannot be undermined. Did you know that scent is one of the most powerful tools for helping to recall memories? Developing a signature scent for your home is a great way to help call upon reflections of home. This can be through the use of incense sticks, diffusers, room sprays, air fresheners or candles… the choice is completely your own.

Declutter

It has long been said that decreased clutter leads to decreased stress. However, you needn’t throw away all of your possessions; there are far easier ways to free up some space.

When you’re on the lookout for new furniture, prioritise pieces with drawers, hidden storage compartments and doors. This way, you can easily display home decor that exudes tranquillity while hiding those possessions that you must keep within arm’s reach but isn’t necessarily kind on the eye. Less is more when it comes to decor and mindfulness!

Mindfulness at work

The above principles should also apply to office life. Everything should have its place; invest in folders, desk organisers and boxes and implement a filing system. This strategy will minimise those random stacks of papers and prevent desks from becoming cluttered. As well as reducing confusion, it should also help you to save time when searching for documents; everything in its place, a place for everything. Such a simple strategy, but one that will ensure employees remain less stressed.

Green light to greenery

Recent studies suggest that having a live plant on your desk can increase cognitive attention and drive productivity. In addition to this, the presence of plants can lead to increased happiness amongst employees. The likes of succulents are easy to maintain and an aesthetically pleasing addition. This concept is well worth a try to boost mindfulness in the workplace. Maris provides luxury office design to ensure the perfect space to house not only those succulents but also a very happy workforce.

Photo by Scott Webb from Pexels