Whether you suffer from depression, anxiety or other mental and emotional health issues, you understandably want to feel as comfortable as possible in your own home. Unfortunately, there are many aspects of a typical home environment that may detract from your health in different ways. Now is a great for you to make a few thoughtful improvements and updates around the house to make it more soothing.

Choose Pleasant Colors

Many people love to decorate with bold color schemes. While there may be a time when this is a great idea for you, relaxing and calming colors may be more well-suited when you are trying to improve your mental and emotional health. Remember that pastels and lighter tones are generally more relaxing regardless of the hue. In addition, pastels that have a yellow tint may invoke a sense of happiness. Light blues and greens may foster relaxation and peace.

Let the Light Shine in

Natural sunlight has profound effects on your mood. In many homes, the general architectural design may create a dark dismal environment. Replacing the windows, enlarging the windows and even updating the Exterior window shutterscan improve the ambiance in the home. As a side benefit, this could even increase value and curb appeal in some cases.

Remove Stress-Inducing Items

If your emotional health is damaged in some way, there is a chance that your home may contain some trigger items. This could be something as simple as a bag that you carry around, or it could be all of the furniture in your living room. Pay attention to your feelings and thoughts as you walk around your home. If you notice that any items cause emotional distress, take them out to the dumpster and replace them with new items that you are not emotionally tied to in any way.

Focus on Sounds and Scents

Another great idea is to create a spa-like environment in your home. You can do this by playing relaxing ambient music in the background while you are reading or cooking. You can burn incense or scented candles. Some people even invest in a small water feature or a noisemaker to generate soothing sounds.

You may be so accustomed to having certain feelings and emotions in your home that you have not noticed how your home makes you feel. Focus your attention on how each of these tips could improve your home environment. Begin by making small improvements initially, and add them over time. Eventually, your home may be a truly relaxing sanctuary.