REVITALIZE YOUR HOME FOR SPRING DURING THE PANDEMIC

This March marked one year into the pandemic, a year when among many unpredictable changes, we spent more time at home than ever before. As we look ahead, yet continue to shelter safely at home, it’s psychologically beneficial to update our interior spaces in step with the spring season. Albeit redundant after months spent organizing and reorganizing everything we own, “spring cleaning” is essential.

Create A Clean Canvas

To start fresh, we need a clean canvas. So before beginning, be sure to declutter. If the thought alone is overwhelming, focus on one space at a time and prioritize the areas you interact with the most. Store away or let go of things that evoke negative feelings or are remnants from a previous relationship and/or a past period in your life. If you struggle with letting go, it may be an opportunity to reassess your values and consider self-fulfillment without unneeded possessions.

Reapproach & Reposition

Once you have a clean canvas, begin to add accessories, such as personal curios, books and pillows, throughout your space. In most cases we already own almost everything we need to make our space feel new. Be intentional about the pieces you choose to display, considering if they’ll evoke happiness every time you see them. Revitalize bookshelves, coffee tables and don’t forget your nightstand. Simple everyday objects can become symbolic of who we are so display items that encourage feelings you would like to inspire, such as joy, confidence, strength, courage, and love.

Art & Photography

The artwork and photographs we have displayed throughout our home play a significant role in our environment. Spring is a wonderful time to display new artwork and update personal photos to celebrate life moving forward. Shop your own art collection or if you prefer, purchase new pieces. If you long for travel, display a few snapshots of previous trips to keep you motivated and looking ahead. 

Create Ritual Spaces

Being home has allowed us a refreshing change of pace and the freedom to set our own routine. Yet it has also challenged us to function entirely from a single space, often sharing it with others in our home. Design your home to effectively utilize all areas, including transitional spaces that can pivot with you throughout the day with a few creative adjustments. Create spaces that invite overall wellness, whether it be a spa experience in your bathroom, or layer accent lighting to allow a mental transition from work to rest. A bedside lamp or string lights for example can alter the ambiance and incite calmness. Remember to also create a quiet corner for breaks or a space to exercise at home, if needed. Add some seating to any outdoor space you have to take advantage of sunnier days ahead. 

Engage the Senses

It’s important to create a personal sensory experience in your home. Select favorite scents and apply them appropriately, perhaps rejuvenating eucalyptus near your bathtub or lavender in the bedroom to encourage restful sleep. Use candles, diffusers and fresh flowers or herbs. Citrus, such as lemon, orange or grapefruit, are known mood boosters, so consider displaying them visually in your kitchen area or diffusing their scent. Springtime favorites, such as magnolia, jasmine or gardenia, are also delightful options for your diffuser. Remember to evoke all the senses. In addition to new visuals and scents, incorporate different textures, calming sounds and taste new recipes.

Be mindful of how your home makes you feel and adjust accordingly so that it continues to serve your needs and evolving lifestyle. In difficult periods, it’s important that our homes continue to cocoon us and safeguard us from harm - whether it be a pandemic or challenges at home. Remember to slow down, breathe, and create a space that welcomes you. Your home should nurture your spirit and allow you to reemerge into the world daily, reinvigorated and grounded.