Sep 06, 2024

Easy Tips to Relax at Home

These days feels like it's always on fast-forward. Between juggling work, family, and everything else, finding time to relax at home can feel like a challenge. But creating a calming space in your own home is easier than you think. With a few simple changes, you can turn your living space into a place of peace and quiet, where you can recharge your mind and body. Here are some tips that have worked wonders for me and are backed by a bit of science, too!

Bring Some Green Inside

I’ve always loved the idea of having plants around the house. Not only do they add a touch of nature, but they also have a calming effect. Believe it or not, studies have found that just being around plants can reduce stress and make us feel more at ease. A study published in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology found that interaction with indoor plants can lower psychological and physiological stress by suppressing sympathetic nervous system activity. For me, a few well-placed succulents or a beautiful leafy plant in the corner can make all the difference after a long, tiring day.

Watch the Fish Swim

A few months ago, I decided to set up a small aquarium. I read that watching fish swim can actually help lower blood pressure and heart rate, and let me tell you, it's true! There’s something incredibly soothing about watching those little creatures float around. Research by the National Marine Aquarium, Plymouth University, and the University of Exeter demonstrated that viewing fish in an aquarium can lead to significant reductions in blood pressure and heart rate. The rhythm of the water and the gentle movements create a kind of meditation without even trying. It’s a simple pleasure, but it brings a surprising amount of peace into my day.

Enjoy Time with Pets

If you have pets, you already know they bring so much joy and calm into our lives. My dog, for instance, is my daily dose of happiness. It’s true! Even a few minutes of playing with a pet or cuddling them can change the entire mood of your day. Numerous studies, such as those from the American Heart Association, suggest that spending time with pets can lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety, and improve cardiovascular health. Engaging with pets not only provides a sense of companionship but also helps in creating a social process that boosts mood and emotional resilience. Pets remind us of the importance of being present, and they help us connect with a sense of personal responsibility and companionship.

Read Something Mindful

Lately, I've been diving into mindfulness books whenever I have a spare moment. I used to think I didn’t have time to read, but then I discovered how even a few pages can help calm my mind. According to a study from the University of Sussex, reading for just six minutes can reduce stress levels by up to 68%. Make it a habit to read a chapter from a mindfulness book daily. For me, grabbing a book and curling up in my favorite chair with a cup of tea has become a cherished part of my day. It’s a simple way to slow down and find some inner peace.

Practice a Little Meditation

I used to think meditation wasn’t for me—it seemed like one of those things that required too much effort. But I gave it a try, and now it’s a part of my daily routine. Just a few minutes each morning or evening can make a huge difference. A study from Harvard Medical School showed that meditation can help reduce anxiety, depression, and stress by encouraging mindful breathing and focus. I use a planner notebook to schedule my meditation times, and it’s become a non-negotiable part of my self-care routine.

Related: Guided I Am Meditation

The Little Things Add Up

It might seem like these are just small changes, but they really add up. I’ve found that including these simple practices—whether it's watering my plants, reading a chapter from a mindfulness book, or taking a moment to breathe with my pet—helps me feel more relaxed and focused. These moments offer a break from the noise of the world and create space for clear thinking and creativity.

Making It Happen

If you’re thinking about how to start, my advice is to keep it simple. Find a beautiful planner or notebook and jot down a few activities you’d like to try. Don’t pressure yourself to do it all at once. Start with one small step, like adding a plant or taking five minutes for mindful reading. Soon enough, these little pockets of calm will start to feel like a natural part of your day.

A Final Thought

Relaxing at home doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. Sometimes, the best things in life are the simplest—like the warmth of a pet's cuddle, the beauty of a houseplant, or the peace found in a good book. Remember, it's about finding what works for you and making time for those moments of calm and joy. Give it a try—and discover for yourself how these easy tips can change your mood and your day.

Related: Why Self Care Isn't Selfish