6 Ways Home Improvement Projects Can Improve Your Mental Health
Did you know that 25% of Canadians say they feel “a bit stressed or extremely stressed most days”, according to the Canadian Mental Health Association? Studies also show that home improvement projects can boost morale and overall mood. Life is stressful, so we put together some tips on how to make your home your sanctuary to reduce your stress levels.
Declutter for Your Sanity
After a stressful day at work, coming home to a cluttered house amplifies your feelings of stress, disorganization & lack of control. You look around your house and you see chaos and a long list of to-dos. Spare yourself the agony and invest the time into organizing your home. Decluttering & organizing your space is a low-cost way to improve your home, while also boosting your mood & overall mental health.
Bring Nature Inside
There’s nothing that boosts Serotonin, Vitamin D, and Melatonin levels better than sunlight and nature, so why not bring more of it indoors? Clean your windows, open and/or remove blinds, or even add windows & doors that let more natural light in. Decorating your home with plants & flowers is also known to boost your mood and overall happiness. Invest in foliage & natural light. Your mental health will thank you.
Colours Matter
Adding or changing colours can dramatically impact the overall vibe of your home. From paint colours to decor & lighting, it can have a significant impact on your mood, productivity & overall happiness. Light & bright colours are proven to lift our moods more than darker colours. Cool, blue lighting is known to increase alertness while warm lighting helps you feel more relaxed. The ideal colours & lighting you choose throughout your house may change depending on the use of the space. Choose your colours & lighting wisely!
Create Functionality
Your home should be as unique as your family is. Every family has a unique set of needs, and a dysfunctional house can add to the stress of running a household. With some tweaks & renovations, you can maximize the functionality of your home. For example, if having your kids’ toys laying around the house drives you crazy, find a space for a playroom. If you’re working remotely, make room for an office space. Even the smallest houses can be modified to meet your needs. If you have ever watched any of the tiny homes shows, you’ll know what we mean!
Sense of Achievement
You may think renovating your home will increase your stress levels, but it can actually help reduce it. Not only is designing & planning a home renovation a satisfying challenge for most homeowners, but the finished product leaves you with pride & satisfaction. Every time you look at your renovation, it’s a trophy reminding you of your accomplishments.
Outdoor Oasis & Family
Create the backyard of your dreams, that motivates you to maximize your time outdoors. Having a great backyard is also the perfect excuse to spend more time with friends & family. An investment in your outdoor space is an investment in your mental health. You’re outside in nature, soaking in Vitamin D, and making memories with friends & family.