Finding peace and serenity in between the hustle, bustle and chaos of our everyday lives can be somewhat daunting. For some, the closest they get to feeling a glint of serenity is when they’re using their Vape Juice on their smoke breaks. For others, it’s the eerie silence at home when the kids are out of the house. With a million and one things to do daily, most people have a greater chance of achieving serenity by passing out from exhaustion than actually taking a breather when they need it. But it shouldn’t be so.
Keeping a Zen home might seem unattainable, and you’re not wrong, at least not without great tips and practice. By prioritizing yourself, peace, and creating the space, you can establish the tranquil environment of your dreams. Let’s show you how you can transform your home from a house to a haven, not just for you but for everyone who walks through your doors.
Create a Dedicated Meditation Space
You cannot meditate in a sitting room full of kids’ toys with Cocomelon in the background. Nor can you be expected to be one with yourself when the game is on or when you have friends over. If you want a peaceful spot in your house, you will have to create it yourself.
Your meditation space could be a corner of your room, closet, balcony or anywhere that is relatively quiet, decluttered and with enough light. You can keep it simple by adding a comfortable cushion or yoga mat, a small table for a candle or incense, and perhaps a wall hanging or a piece of art that inspires peace, which can be enough. However, if you want to go all the way, here’s how you can achieve the Zen space of your dreams
Step 1: Embrace Minimalism
The first step towards creating a Zen environment is embracing minimalism. Think about a Zen space right now. What do you see? Earth tones? Spacious? Calming music? Or just you on the balcony enjoying your Vape Juice. Zen spaces are not typically cluttered or overly decorated. They focus on the essentials so as not to distract you from your meditation or peace of mind. To achieve such a space in your home, you’ll need to:
- Declutter: Begin by removing items that you no longer need or use. This simplifies your space and reduces chaos.
- Choose Simplicity: In furnishings, opt for simple, natural materials. Think clean lines and neutral colors that evoke calmness.
Step 2: Incorporate Natural Elements
As a quality or state of mind, Zen is deeply connected to nature because of its peacefulness. Think of a running spring or the sound of the wind or rain. Seems calming, right? Exactly. Some people even source these sounds so they can fall asleep. So, incorporating elements of nature into your home can help create a peaceful and inviting space. You can achieve this by:
- Using Natural Materials: Incorporate wood, stone, or bamboo in your decor. These materials naturally bring the outside in and help to create a calming atmosphere.
- Adding Plants: Greenery not only purifies the air but also adds a quiet presence and vitality to any room. Opt for easy-to-care-for plants like succulents or bamboo.
Step 3: Bring the Light In
Lighting plays a crucial role in creating a Zen atmosphere. In your imagination of a Zen atmosphere, is it bright or dark? Exactly. However, harsh lighting can disrupt the tranquility of the space.
After all, there’s something like light pollution. So, to find the right balance of light required for a Zen space, you should:
- Maximize Natural Light: Allow as much natural light as possible to enter your home. Use sheer, light drapes that let light in while providing privacy.
- Use Soft Light Fixtures: In the evenings, rely on lamps with soft, warm bulbs. Candles can also add to the serene atmosphere, casting gentle shadows and a soothing glow.
Step 4: Incorporate Soothing Sounds
Calming sounds is one of the many indicators of a Zen space. No one wants to meditate in a room where heavy metal is playing because of its distracting nature. Nor will they be able to concentrate in a room where traffic sounds are heard. To create a Zen-like atmosphere, integrate soothing sounds into your environment from:
- Water Features: A small indoor fountain can provide a continuous, soothing backdrop of water sounds that are profoundly relaxing.
- Soft Music: Play gentle, ambient tunes or nature sounds that can help soothe the mind and spirit.
Step 5: Select Tranquil Colors
Color significantly impacts mood and atmosphere. Zen-inspired colors are typically soft and earthy. For instance:
- Neutral Palette: Whites, beiges, soft grays, and earth tones are perfect as they create a sense of space and light.
- Accent Colors: If you prefer a bit of color, consider muted greens, blues, or browns. These colors still maintain a calmness and help you connect with nature.
Conclusion
Creating a Zen environment in your home doesn’t require a complete overhaul. Instead, it’s about making little, mindful decisions that align with the principles of simplicity, nature, and tranquility. By following these steps, you can transform any space into a serene haven and a peaceful escape from the bustle of everyday life. So, whether you’re meditating in your new serene corner or simply enjoying the newfound calm, this approach can help you find peace right where you are.
