How To Decorate Your Home For Winter
Salam my friends! How are you? I hope these cold winter days are not having as much of a negative effect on your mood as it is having on mine. We have been experiencing record low temperatures, multiple snow storms, and cloudy days here in the U.S. that are taking a toll on me. Sometimes I feel like letting go of all my responsibilities, and curling up in bed all day! However I know that if I did that, I would feel guilty of wasting precious time, which would depress me even further! There is a lot to do, but no energy to get it all done. You know what I mean?
To top it all off, a shooter decided to terrorize our community this past weekend when he entered the Mall in Columbia and killed two young people for no apparent reason! It is scary and depressing to realize the risk we take everyday when we step out the door. May Allah protect us all from harm.
Apparently, I am experiencing what is called the “winter blues” or winter depression. Low energy, lack of motivation, and mild depression are clear signs that you too might be suffering from this. So how do we overcome the winter blues? I did my research and found these 12 winter depression busters that are simple and worth a try. I also found that simple changes to our homes can boost our mood and help us cope during the winter months. So here are a few suggestions on how to decorate your home for winter in order to prevent the winter blues…
Invite natural lighting: Natural lighting has an effect on us to make us feel happier. Open up curtains and blinds. Place a large mirror opposite a window to maximize lighting, or bask on a chair near a window where the sun shines in.
Decorate with happy colors: During the winter months, much needed winter sun warms and energizes us. One way to maxamize the effect of the sun is by decorating your home with the colors of the sun. As I mentioned in my color psychology series, the colors of the sun ; yellow, red, and orange will brighten your home, and uplift your spirit. Introduce these colors in accessories such as candles, table covers, throws, pillows, and art.
Buy fresh flowers. Living plants have a tendency to brighten any space, and fresh flowers will bring joy of what’s to come
Relax with Aromatherapy: Turn on a cented candle or plug in that air refreshner. It has been proven that Aromatherapy can improve moods.
“The scents that are considered helpful in depression are rose, sandalwood, lavender, jasmine, peppermint, citrus, cedar wood, chamomile, geranium and ylang ylang. Look for these fragrances when buying lotion, candles, perfumes, house or car air fresheners” {ehow health}
Organize your home: Nothing makes me feel down more than clutter! Take advantage of winter days when you are forced to be indoors to organize closets, shelves, cabinets, and counters. These 52 ideas to organize your home will give you a head start.
How do you feel about winter? Are you among the 20% of people who suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD) caused by the reduced sunlight? How do you cope with winter blues?
Sources:
5 ways to overcome winter blues
