The average American spends nearly half their lives in bed, and therefore in their bedrooms, according to research reported in the New York Post. This (not too surprising) statistic brings light to the fact that creating a positive bedroom environment is super impactful. Truthfully, I cannot wait to go to bed tonight after staying up late last night celebrating American independence. Even though the whole family slept in today, I am tired, and I need to get this article (about bedrooms) done before I can go to bed… ah the irony!
Initiating organization in the bedroom generates energy, which is helpful in tackling the remainder of the home. Bedrooms can also be one of the easiest spaces to organize, as they do not require many things to function well.
Marie Kondo says to, “Make your bedroom a space to recharge your batteries and refresh yourself for another day. Keep lighting soft and indirect, play relaxing music, and feature items and scents that spark joy. Wash sheets and pillowcases often.”
The Ideal Bedroom According to Feng Shui describes, “The ideal bed placement allows you to see the bedroom door while you're in bed without being directly in front of or in line with it. According to Feng Shui, having a view of the door from bed without being too close to it gives a sense of safety and is conducive to relaxation and sleep.” Quoting my own article, Springing into Order with MegSense Tune Ups, “A solid wall behind the bed feels safest. Solid wood frames with attached headboards are ideal. Avoid hanging things above your head as subconsciously this can cause anxiety… Above all, choose bedding that feels good to you.”
My favorite tip for the bedroom is to limit things! I have no work stuff, no paperwork, no pictures of people, no toys, and very limited electronics (only alarm clocks and lamps) in the bedroom. Some of this may sound harsh, but science and Feng Shui support my stances. Less is more, and when in doubt I say, “keep it out of the bedroom!” There are many positive side effects of omitting electronics from the bedroom. Looking at blue light (aka screens) tricks our brains and throws off circadian rhythms. Plus, from a common sense perspective, it is much easier to rest in a room without distractions.
I limit our bedroom to clothing, books, toiletries, and sleep items. I already discussed the bedroom closet in “What to do About Clothes” and I elaborate on books in “A Word on Books”, so we can skip over these things. Toiletries may seem like an odd item to keep in the bedroom, but many people (like me) enjoy having a vanity area outside the bathroom. I clean my vanity regularly and have special storage solutions (jewelry boxes, clear organizers, and artful pottery) to keep it looking beautiful. Other sleep items live in our nightstands, which I clean out occasionally.
Finally, make sure the art you have in your bedroom is inspiring and relaxing. Artwork is an external affirmation of what you want in your life. One way to increase romance in your relationships is to display things in pairs and set up other paired mementos throughout your room. Also, it may be a good idea to omit pictures of children or overly religious overtones as they can be “mood breakers” causing interference. Personally, I love having extra special items like salt lamps, crystals, favorite rocks, and plants in our master bedroom. This artwork brings me sweet dreams!
Love Always,
Meg
Comments