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In times of stress and difficulty, home becomes more important to creating a sense of well-being. We look to our homes to provide a sensory reprieve so we can unplug from the stresses of the outside world.

However, creating a calming home isn’t as easy as it seems, because the elements of a serene space aren’t always obvious. Only certain elements create a calming and relaxing atmosphere. Below are the six elements that can create a calm, serene environment.

1. The home is visually restful.

Create views. Seeing out and beyond is restful to our eyes and spirits. Open shades and curtains to view the garden or open spaces beyond. Select artwork that offers perspective and depth, such as those in landscape paintings.

Use calming colors. Hotels and spas often use muted colors in their décor to create a soothing environment. They do this by painting trim, walls, and ceilings all the same color. Another technique is to choose colors that are shade or two different from one another. Select muted taupes, browns, yellows, greens, or earth-type colors, as these are calming and relaxing. Choose beneficial feng shui colors here.

Limit TV viewing. The sights and images that are constantly changing on today’s television stations can be upsetting and graphic. Avoid having a TV on unless you are watching it.

2. The environment is audibly soothing.

Get a tabletop fountain. The gurgling sound of water is extremely relaxing and enjoyable. More importantly, it creates a “natural” sound like those heard in nature. Be sure to choose a quality fountain. These will give you greater enjoyment and better use than an inexpensive one.

Listen to soothing music. Classical or new age music is always a good choice. Listen to this when you come home, while relaxing in the house, or before bed. Or, play it on a whole house stereo system.

Turn off the TV. Avoid having the TV on as background noise. Turn it off in favor of music or silence.

3. The home allows you to physically unwind and rest. This starts in the bedroom. Many bedrooms are over-functional and over stimulating. They may have a computer, exercise equipment, desks, stacks of books, etc. to divert attention from what should really be going on in the room: rest , relaxation, and romance. Also, put the bed back into bedroom by taking the TV out of it.

4. It is mentally relaxing. A home must offer a respite from troubling world events, stress-filled work, or other difficulties.

Get organized. Order creates calm. If you are running around the house frantically searching for keys, your wallet, your purse, etc., then you are mentally agitated. Designate one space for these essentials and be vigilant about keeping them there.

Be neat. Make the bed, hang up your towels, and put the dishes in the dishwasher. Pick up for a few minutes a few times a day so the house stays tidy.

5. The space incorporates natural elements. Asian decorating is often associated with a calm environment. This is because they rely on a heavy use of natural elements. Wood, stone, and plants are all excellent additions to a space and can be used regardless of the decorating style of the home. Using these elements liberally creates a relaxing, natural and harmonious atmosphere, effectively bringing “the outside in.”

6. It’s kept reasonably clean. Cleanliness is important for a peaceful home. Unfortunately, most cleaning is done in a large spurt of time, often taking several hours. Instead, keep cleaning items close to the location and take one minute each day to wipe off counters, or run a brush through the toilet. If that’s not possible, hire cleaning help.