KITCHEN & BATH REMODELERS
Use Nature to Get Better Sleep
You’ll spend nearly one-third of your life asleep. Because of the importance of high-quality sleep, your bedroom needs to be a sanctuary from the outside world, a place where you can escape from the pressure of modern life. Everything about your bedroom design from the mattress to the curtains should support your need for healthy sleep. Comfort is central, so make sure your bed supports your preferred sleep position –
sleeping on your back, side or stomach. Good sleep environments often combine relieving stress and relaxing. That’s where nature comes in.
The body naturally relaxes in nature. A bike ride through the woods, stroll along the beach, or even a walk around the block can relieve stress and tension. A
Stanford University study showed that walking in nature helps reduce brain activity in the area where key factors for depression are found. Part of those changes come from escaping from stress, which can be done by using natural elements in your bedroom design.
Nature presents a great variety of options when it comes to design. The beach, desert, mountains, rivers, and lakes can all serve as inspiration for your bedroom. We’ve put together a few ideas to get your mind rolling, but be creative and make your bedroom a place you want to be.
Houseplants
When someone says “nature” plants are probably the first thing that pops into your mind. Many houseplants can thrive indoors, and they can do more than make your room look like a walk in the park. Houseplants can
remove biotoxins like benzene (from oils and paints) and formaldehyde found in grocery bags and facial tissue. Some plants act as a natural humidifier and release moisture into the air while others release oxygen at night when you need it most. The list of plants that work in the bedroom is long but few to consider include:
• Spider plant
• English ivy
• Gerbera daisy
• Peace lily
• Areca Palm
Plants can be used in tight corners where other furniture won’t fit or on nightstands, dressers, and benches.
Natural Wood
Nothing makes you feel like you’re in the outdoors like natural wood. Natural finishes on headboards, picture frames, or accent chairs can bring the warmth and feel of the forest into the bedroom. For rugged appeal and character, look for pieces with the natural texture of bark or reclaimed wood.
Artwork
Art is a great way to add the look of the outdoors and a pop of color. Photos of leaves or a forest scene have greens, browns, and blues, all colors that inherently help you relax. Landscapes of sweeping vistas or a country scene can also work well. Whatever your style—contemporary, minimalist, eclectic—you can find artwork of nature. Be ready to think outside the box too. Dressers and nightstands can be artwork in and of themselves. Dressers with unique branch handles or a nightstand made of a tree stump will help you feel the outdoors.
Comfortable Bedding
Natural elements don’t have to be a direct representation of nature. Sheets and bedding in natural fabrics like cotton and linen can also provide a connection to the earth. The texture and breathability of the fabric can help your mind and body relax into the mattress. Natural fabrics on pillows and blankets can also provide comfort while harkening back to their beginnings in texture and color.
