Many of us enjoy being surrounded by nature. It has a relaxing effect, making us healthier mentally, spiritually, and physically. However, it’s difficult to appreciate nature if you spend a majority of your day cooped up inside either at home or at work. Thankfully, there are easy ways to bring nature indoors and allow yourself to enjoy its calming effects every single day!
Houseplants
One of the simplest ways to bring the outdoors in is to bring your garden indoors. Put plants wherever you can, leaving no room unaddressed - not even the bathroom. (Some plants thrive in that humid environment!) Houseplants improve your mood by filtering pollutants from the air, and they add a decorative touch throughout the entire home. They also don’t have to be limited to simply lilies, orchids, or spider plants. Succulents make cute decor accent plants, too! Additionally, there are plants that can serve a dual purpose. Trees planted in large pots indoors can grow lemons or other citrus. Alternatively, you could grow herbs, such as mint or basil, that not only smell great and help to filter the air, but can also be used in a variety of delicious recipes.
Natural light
Try to incorporate as much natural light as possible. Large scenic windows are fantastic for making your environment feel that much more inviting. Keep your curtains open and allow sunlight in whenever possible, and if you’re building or renovating a home, consider adding skylights and large windows to increase the natural lighting that is flowing within your home.
Natural floors and building materials
Connecting with nature isn’t just about plants and light. Whenever and wherever possible, try to use stone or wood to help mimic the appearance of an outdoor setting. Avoid brick, plastic, or laminate, as these appear cold and artificial. Wood floors, whether made of bamboo, cork, or hardwood, last indefinitely and look beautiful. Wood also holds heat better than alternative floor choices like laminate or tile. You can also use wood as a part of your decor and decorative pieces!
Nature inspired color schemes
With this incredible understanding of the beauty and connection that nature represents for us, When it comes to choosing a color scheme for your space, consider choosing natural colors and avoid overly bright, synthetic-looking shades when painting. This is a fantastic way to incorporate nature into your home and bringing the outdoors in. This can end up producing a powerful effect in an indoor space with either bold or more subtle colors depending on your style. (We suggest using green or blue or brown tones!)
Nature inspired artwork
Studies show that just looking at nature can improve brain function and induce a more positive mental state. So, start integrating more nature scenes into your decor. Hang photos and paintings of natural scenes and make time throughout your day to look at them, instead of simply walking by.
Either purchase some professional photographs or paintings of nature scenes, or consider taking your own. You don’t need a high tech digital camera to take a nice shot of a sunrise, you can use your mobile device or buy a mobile camera attachment for an inexpensive camera upgrade. You can blow these up and hang them on the wall to help remind you of the beauty waiting right outside your door!
Incorporate water features
Adding water to your home interior is another great way to connect with nature. Simply hearing or watching water move is a great way to destress and relax. You can easily incorporate water into your home by adding a small aquarium, water wall or table fountain. The idea is to harness nature’s sounds and channel them into your home.
Invest in a scent
One of the best parts of nature is how it smells–fresh, fragrant, and earthy. Purchase a diffuser or scented candles. Inhaling these woodsy scents will allow you to unwind. Close your eyes, and you might even forget you’re inside!
However you chose to decorate your home, remember that nature can be found in all places, not just outside. Bring the outdoors inside, and you’ll find yourself more relaxed and at peace than you’ve ever been before!
~This blog was brought to you by S. Donnelly Interiors. Learn more about the interior design project process by following Stephanie Donnelly and her interior design services in Glen Ellyn, Illinois and the surrounding areas!
Comments