Improve Your Mental Health With Decor in Your Bedroom

Written By Brett Armstron, Content Specialist, ID-Mag

Could the bedroom décor you select affect your mental health? I’ve had the Monday blues and rainy day blues, which are things just about everyone’s experiences. However, sometimes our mental state becomes more than that. The good news is I’ve discovered that adding some new décor to my sleeping space and taking steps to find the best mattress for a restful sleep can help. 

A recent study showed that in 2018 nearly one-fifth of all U.S. adults struggled with mental health illness, according to NAMI.org. You can remodel your bedroom to give your mental state a pick-me-up, but sometimes a few tweaks are all you need.

Environment and Emotions: What’s the connection?

We often overlook the effects of the environment on our emotions. For example, consider that physical stores often use particular store layouts to attract customers to certain areas so they’ll shell out more money there.

It’s also no mistake that McDonald’s logo includes red and yellow, while people often wait in a “green room.” While the golden arches are eye-catching, the colors green, blue, and violet have a calming effect.

Often Overlooked Bedroom Layouts & Colors

It’s ironic that while many of us know the importance of a bedroom’s layout and colors, we often forget to add elements that will improve people’s feelings and moods. This is something that should change, and especially among people who are dealing with mental health conditions. 

This is an experience that many of us have had but didn’t realize it. For example, if a room is very cluttered with stuff and has drab-colored wallpaper, then it will probably be an emotional downer. 

On the other hand, other homes include the perfect blend of wall paint/paper, wall décor, and furniture. This can have the opposite effect and provide an emotional boost. 

Modern Spin on Old Concept 

The practice of making living spaces uplifting and balanced is nothing new. For example, according to the ancient Chinese practice of Feng Shui, a room’s setup can create positive energy that moves through it. 

You don’t have to do complete remodeling to create good vibes in your bedroom. In many cases, some fresh paint, well-placed wall décor, and new beddings are all you need for a mood boost.

Improving a Room Layout 

Centerpiece 

While there are many options for a bedroom, the focal point should generally be the bedroom. The main reason is sleeping should be the main function of a bedroom. 

Studies show that whatever is a room’s focal point makes people happy and relaxed. After you choose the perfect mattress for your good night’s sleep, why not use your bed and mattress to lift your spirits every time you see them? 

Declutter 

We’ve been cleaning our bedrooms since childhood. While it often seems like a chore, it can actually provide various mental benefits. In fact, a tidy room can have a calming effect on your psyche, while a messy room can make you stressed and possibly experience a lack of sleep.

Decluttering probably doesn’t seem like a method of improving your room’s layout. That said, technically it is. It’s all about keeping what you need, discarding what you don’t, and adding more walk space to your bedroom.  

In fact, besides a cluttered room being stressful, it can also be confusing. It’s tougher to keep track of where everything is. We also all know from experience that finding something we’ve misplaced can take quite a while.

Make Your Bedroom Colors Count 

Colors are an important part of bedroom setups. They’re found on the walls, floors, and furniture. However, I’ve noticed that making small changes to a room’s color scheme can have a major effect. 

Color Wheel 

The colors on the color wheel are divided into primary, secondary, and complementary colors. The primary colors are:

• Red 
• Blue
• Yellow

Secondary colors are made by combining any two of these colors.

More importantly, when picking room colors go with “warm” colors like blue, green, and violet. These are certainly better options than colors on the other end of the color spectrum, which include red, orange, and yellow.

Other good options include “neutral” colors, which are ones that go with everything, including:

• White
• Black
• Tan
• Olive
• Grey 

Watch this “Warm” versus “cool” colors video for more information. 

Colors and Mental State 

Not only can colors improve your bedroom layout, but they can also affect your mood and mental state. One example is red. While it’s the color of love, it’s also the color of anger. Studies show red boosts adrenaline and might even increase stress levels. 

On the other hand, other colors like blue and green can have a calming and soothing effect. Consider how relaxed you feel when looking at a blue sky or green grass. Adding such colors to your beddings, walls, and décor can help you relax at bedtime and doze off.

Add the Right Light 

While there’s no question you’ll need to add light sources to your bedroom, certain options are better than others to improve your mental state. 

Natural Light over Artificial Light 

When using artificial light at night, make sure to use soft white light bulbs versus fluorescent bulbs. You should also try to add as much natural light to your room. This will boost your mood during the daytime even if you have to stay in your bedroom all day. 

Sleep in a Dark Room 

When it’s bedtime, you should keep your bedroom as dark as possible to encourage better sleep quality. If you feel more comfortable with some light, then you could add a night light or use a dimmer switch.

Other than that, make sure to take steps like closing curtains and blinds. You should also put down mobile devices and gadgets at least one hour before bedtime. 

Watch this video to find out how smartphones keep you awake.

Pick Red or Pink Lights 

The reason might be surprising. White fluorescent lights emit blue light, which can cause you to toss and turn. Studies show that red or pink light are better options for a good night’s sleep. As noted, you should also avoid harsh lighting like fluorescent lighting since it might affect your ability to catch Zs right before bedtime. 

Tips for adding sleep-friendly décor 

• Add potted or artificial plants for greenery 
• Use wall décor and beddings with warm or neutral colors
• Get décor ideas from other homes. 
• Use wall décor to complement the bed’s height 
• Go with “happy” décor instead of trending options

Conclusion 

We spend up to one-third of our lives sleeping but soften avoid creating a good sleeping environment. Through trial and error, I’ve discovered that making tweaks like adding blue or green throw pillows, minimizing clutter, or learning how to find the best mattress for a restful sleep can all help. You’ll be in the best place for a better state of mind! 

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