Improving Home Mood: Insights from Interior Designers on Strategies for Combatting Sadness

As the days grow shorter and the nights become darker, it's essential to create a comfortable and relaxing environment in your home. Here are some tips to help you achieve this:

Light Therapy Lamps for SAD

Light therapy lamps, or SAD lamps, mimic natural light and can be particularly effective during the darker months. They are designed to offset the lack of sunlight and can be used during morning hours to help regulate your body's circadian rhythm. According to the Yale School of Medicine, exposure to bright light at 10,000 lux for 7 days per week for 30 minutes before 8 a.m. results in substantial improvement in SAD and sub-syndromal SAD for most patients.

A well-designed home can encourage social interaction, which is vital for combating the isolation that often accompanies SAD. A fireplace or central communal area can create a warm and inviting atmosphere, fostering a sense of community and connection. Surrounding yourself with things that make you happy can help lift your spirits during the darker months. Your home should be filled with things that bring you joy.

Storage Solutions for a Clutter-Free Home

Regularly decluttering your living spaces can improve the physical space and lead to mental clarity and reduced stress. Establishing daily routines for tidying up can help maintain an organised home without it becoming a daunting task. Investing in storage solutions can help keep your belongings neatly tucked away.

Creating a Relaxing Environment with Textures and Scents

Textures can help with SAD, making you want to curl up and get comfortable. Tactile layers like blankets, rugs, and throws can help create a cosy and relaxing environment. Scented candles with notes of smoked wood, birch, and amber can induce feelings of peace and comfort.

Personalising Your Space

Personalising your space can help provoke positive memories and bring joy. Photos, items from a trip, and incorporation of your favorite colors are all ways to help provoke positive memories within your home. A fluffy armchair made from soft-touch sandstone Sherpa fabric can provide comfort and be aesthetically pleasing. A sumptuously soft faux fur throw can be used for extra warmth and is visually appealing.

Movement Space for Physical Activity

Physical activity is a powerful tool for managing SAD, as it helps boost mood, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. Incorporating a 'movement space' can help elevate mood and provide a space for physical exercise. Setting aside a specific area in your home for exercise can provide variety and keep your exercise routine engaging.

Light Therapy Box for a Relaxing Morning Routine

A light therapy box is a portable lighting device that mimics sunlight and reduces symptoms associated with SAD. A remote-controlled light therapy box offers 10,000 lux and can emit a 360° light, with four brightness levels and a built-in timer. This can be a great addition to your morning routine, helping you start your day with a boost of light.

Dark Room for Quality Sleep

A dark room at night is essential for quality sleep, which is crucial for mental health. Blackout curtains or eye masks can block out any ambient light and ensure your sleep environment is as dark as possible.

Color Therapy Light for Mood Enhancement

A color therapy light offers three color temperatures and five brightness levels, with a compact design that is adjustable by 210°. This can be a useful tool for enhancing your mood throughout the day.

By implementing these tips, you can create a comfortable and relaxing environment in your home, helping to combat the effects of SAD during the winter months.