It’s no secret that sleep is an essential part of life. It is a chance for our body to refresh and recharge after a busy day, and is crucial for increased energy, mood and immunity. The décor choices we make in the bedroom can significantly impact the quality of our sleep.
Taking the time to design a sleep-friendly bedroom, and engage in sleep-friendly routines, is a wonderful way to ensure you wake up each morning feeling refreshed and ready to conquer the world:
– Positioning Your Bed: Called the “command position”, this is the key to getting a good night’s sleep, from a Feng Shui perspective. Your bed should be positioned so that you face the entrance of the room while laying in bed (though not in direct line with that entrance). This allows us to rest comfortably while subconsciously knowing that we can “see” what’s coming. A sturdy headboard should be used to ground and stabilize.
– Black Out Curtains: City lights are pretty, but they can trick the body into thinking it’s daytime when it’s not. Replace thin window treatments with heavy curtains that block out exterior light in its entirety. A dark room will catalyze your body’s production of melatonin – the hormone that helps us sleep!
– Ban Electronics: Think of your bedroom as a place for rest and intimacy, not technology! Computers, televisions, iPads and even cell phones should be banned from the bedroom entirely. Electronics such as these block the flow of positive energy and, thus, are considered bad Feng Shui.
– Muted Colors: Use quiet, muted colors or neutrals to create a serene and relaxing atmosphere. Bright, jarring hues can subconsciously affect our moods and ability to wind down.
– Double Glazed Windows: If you live in the city, street noise can be 24/7. Investing in double glazed windows is a great way to bring nighttime decibels right down.
– Change Your Light Bulbs: Biological light bulbs like Lighting Science’s Good Night LED lights help regulate your body’s natural circadian rhythms by omitting light at a lower frequency than regular bulbs. Place these bulbs in areas of your home that you frequent before bedtime such as a bedside table. Dimmer switches are encouraged also!
– Embrace Essential Oils: Clinical studies suggest aromatherapy can help us fall asleep. Essential oils like ylang-ylang and lavender are soothing, calming, and can help trigger a relaxation response in large muscle groups.
– De-Clutter: A messy bedroom will affect your quality of sleep, no question about it. De-cluttering is the key to a clearer mind, and a clear mind is conducive to better sleep. Avoid stashing items under the bed – let the bed breathe and the good chi flow at all times.
– Get Arty: A nice touch is to have artwork that brings pleasant thoughts or memories when you awake. This is a great way to begin the day with wonderful thoughts and positivity.
– Mirror Warning: Mirrors should not be placed so that you see yourself when you sleep (thus mirrored closet doors are discouraged). These can lead to a troubled subconscious and restless night’s sleep.
Sweet dreams!