Recently I was speaking to a school principal who was reading a newly released book “The Anxious Generation” by Jonathan Haidt.
I was curious and thought I’d reserve it at my local library. Amazingly, my reserve was no. 41! I was in disbelief that so many people wanted to read this book and that there is so much anxiety within the world.
It’s a fascinating subject and and worrying that people are so affected. Anxiety seems to be a common ailment in today’s society.
How does decorating homes and colour relate to the subject of anxiety?
My role is a colour designer and creating calm and inspiring places to live and work. By creating a home where you feel peace and calm, your mind can begin to be peaceful, calm and inspired (and feeling less anxious).
This is the beginning of a Harmony in Your Home series giving you the tools to create a home that you love to come home to each day to relax and reset each evening.
Part 1 – Decluttering your Home
You’ve probably read or heard about the importance of decluttering your home. Whether your a fan of Peter Walsh or Marie Kondo, (both have amazing philosopies and I have read their books) they both show the importance of how decluttering your home declutters your mind, giving you space to really live and dream.
Looking at these images of a cluttered desk, how can you expect to calmly find anythig and you’ll spend so much time searching for what you need? If your desk is in order, things are easy to find and you’ll be calm and in control.
Do you feel calmer looking at this image of a tidy desk and inspired to get things done?
A tidy bedroom will let you sleep better, tidy kids rooms will teach them to put things away and create a calm space for them to sleep, a tidy living area will encourage you to spend time there with your family.
Think of it this way. If your kitchen benchtop is covered with dirty dishes, pots, pans, papers or toys, how is there room to prepare and cook healthy meals? So you may opt for take away (perhaps not so good for your budget, and not so good for your health). If you have a clear benchop, there is plenty of space to cook.
How do you feel when you look at these images? To hazard a guess, I’d say calm – although you may think it’s impossible! The only way to find out is to try.
Does it take work to keep your home tidy? Yes! Anything worthwhile takes perserverence before it becomes a habit, then it becomes easy and you will feel the difference in your mind and body. (A great book to read about forming habits is “Atomic Habits” by James Clear
Both Peter Walsh and Marie Kondo recommend tackling a small section of your home at a time, finish and move on. The idea is to keep going until you’ve finished and you will feel different each time you finish a space.
Once you’ve decluttered, you’re ready for the next exciting phase of creating your perfect home.
Keep you eyes out for Harmony in your Home – Part 2 – Your front entrance
For more details, images and information, my e-book Harmony in the Home is available here
