The idea of living in a stress-free home may seem like a myth to many families, but did you know there has been scientific research conducted on this matter? Small changes to the inside of your home can not only give your home a beautiful makeover, but it can also lift your spirits. Here are some ways to create the living space you’ve wanted to happily escape to at the end of each day.

1. Choose light colors. According to an article in The Monitor on Psychology, light colors exude relaxation and calm the busy mind.
2. When it comes to wooden pieces, let the grain show. Although they’re unsure as to why, researchers have discovered that people prefer natural, light colored wood with exposed grain over Formica and dark wooden surfaces. They also discovered people prefer wooden pieces over chrome and glass. Play it safe, however, and don’t let the pieces cover more than 45% of your room. Otherwise, it will look smothering.
3. Open up the windows and let the sunshine in. It’s a proven fact that daylight is a great mood booster, as it restores our Vitamin D levels. Plus, it’s always relaxing to look at Mother Nature. However, if you live in the city and don’t have much of a beautiful view, you can always purchase table and floor lamps with softer lighting settings, this will mimic natural light.
4. Add some greenery indoors. Decorative plants, paintings of landscapes, potted plants, etc. – all of these can bring your mood down to a level of serenity. With artwork, refrain from pieces that are confusing and too busy.
5. Consider getting a fish tank. Often, doctors’ offices will have fish tanks to calm the patient. It’s peaceful watching colorful fish swim back and forth. This can be effective at home too, as long as you maintain the tank’s appearance and don’t purchase something that’s just too much work to upkeep.
6. Show off your accomplishments. If you have a home office, don’t be afraid to hang awards, certificates, diplomas/degrees, etc., on the walls. These will serve as a reminder of how great you are and how far you’ve come on bad days when the stress hits an all-time high for you.
7. Invest in comfy cushions and chairs. At the end of a long workday, many of us look forward to coming home and resting in our favorite chair. Feel free to place a plant behind the chair, along with a small table for books, drinks, etc. Make it your own personal space of comfort.
8. When it comes to dinner tables, consider a round one. Round tables exude a sense of control and encourage open communication.
9. Clean your home on a regular basis. There’s nothing quite as nice as coming back to a clean, organized home. Keep everything in its place so you aren’t tripping or fumbling around searching for an item.
10. Select furniture within your budget. Don’t break the bank for a piece you’re mainly paying for strictly because of the brand. There are plenty of pieces in the mid-range that are affordable, stylish, have exceptional quality, and are comfortable.
11. Add in some personal touches. Include family photos, artwork created by your kids or family members or friends. When the stress is high, it’s always nice to be reminded of the presence of those who love us most.
12. Consider a home makeover. Perhaps you just need a fresh start in general. Whether it’s through hiring an architect, interior decorator, construction team, etc., your home could just need a makeover. You can work with the professional on what your goals are and how quickly these will be accomplished.