It’s the most wonderful time of the year. The sounds of Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas is You” plays from every speaker, red and green decorations are meticulously littering the front yards of your neighbors, but you can’t help but feel blue. Winter brings about both the season of cheer and the season of sorrow. Shorter days and cooler climates are the perfect mixture for seasonal depression and anxiety. Here are four ways to fight the funk and keep your home your most peaceful space:
Going Green
Add some fresh flowers and plants around the house and don’t forget to get creative. Mix and match your favorite flowers to make the perfect arrangement just for you. Bring that dull corner to life by adding tall greenery that commands attention. Indoor plants have been shown to increase energy levels and decrease stress levels. Plants release oxygen, purifying the air around you and increase serotonin (the hormone that makes you feel happy).
Lighten Up
Introduce more natural light into your home to not only brighten the space but also your mood. Natural light helps the body to increase endorphins and serotonin (there goes that word, again); these two chemicals are your body’s perfect concoction for all things love, pleasure, and happiness. Consider retractable draperies and roman shades for chic yet convenient ways to control the amount of sun rays you let inside at any given time.
In Living Color
Bright yet warm colors like yellow, orange, and pink bring about feelings of happiness. No worries if those colors just don’t fit into your color scheme, pastel and lighter versions of your favorite color can also have an uplifting effect on your mood. Accent pillows, throws, and bedding are great ways to add subtle changes without doing a complete overhaul.
Clean as a Whistle
Throw on some Anita Baker and break out the vacuum because it’s time to get tidy. Organizing and cleaning your home can bring about a feeling of peace, calm, and stability. Clutter has been linked to a negative impact on mental health by inducing feelings of stress, anxiety, and inattention. A new storage ottoman or bench are perfect ways to keep it clean while still keeping it cute.
Seasonal depression can affect any of us. While you’re preparing for the holidays this year, add a few of these ideas to your decor to help brighten and lighten your holiday season.