6 ways to turn your home into a natural oasis (BPT) – As the year comes to an end, many people make resolutions to start the New Year strong. This might mean ramping up your workout routine, increasing your self-care regimen or finding time to de-stress. The EPA reports we spend 90 percent of our time indoors, but most people feel that spending time in nature has a positive effect on their mental well-being and stress level, according to a recent YouGov study commissioned by VELUX. So, if your goal is to de-stress, here are some healthy behaviors and design tips to help you bring nature’s sanctuary indoors.
Fill your home with photos of nature Surrounding yourself with images of nature can have a positive effect on wellness. Try framing some photos of special memories in nature like a hike with your family, beach sunset or mountain view.
Today’s homes are built tighter and more sealed, which means they trap toxins from daily living - such as cooking, cleaning, pets and more - inside. Adding skylights that can open is a simple home renovation project to improve fresh air flow, helping rid indoor air of pollutants. Additionally, studies show that exposure to natural light helps to sync your circadian rhythm, allowing for better sleep at night.
Fill your home with natural scents Up your chef game by using fresh herbs in your cooking that will fill your kitchen with natural fragrance. Making an indoor herb garden ensures you’ll always have some on hand. You can also incorporate fresh herbs into bouquets or wreaths for a natural air freshener throughout your home.
day. Open the blinds or curtains on your windows and skylights to let in early morning light and help you feel invigorated and Meditate or do yoga refreshed.
in the morning
Waking up with stretching or meditating Let in more fresh air is a great way to prepare and natural light yourself for a successful
Go green with your décor Reap the benefits of nature by bringing it
inside, adding greenery or even fruit into your décor. The possibilities are endless - use a bowl of fresh fruit as a centerpiece or mix different sizes of pots to create a succulent gallery. Little touches of green in each room will go a long way.
Use natural cleaning laxed when your home is chemical-free. products Many common cleaning products have harsh chemicals that can be inhaled or absorbed into your skin. Combat the dangers of these toxins by switching to natural cleaning products. You’ll feel safer and more re-
From boosting your home’s natural light to going green and adding plant life, it’s easy to turn your home into a natural oasis with these simple steps. For more information, visit whyskylights. com.
Transition smoothly after relocating People move for various reasons. Some have outgrown their existing homes and need something bigger, while others move to downsize. Regardless of why people move, moving occurs more often than you might think. The U.S. Census Bureau says one in nine people relocated in 2015 to a new neighborhood, a new state or even across the country. Relocating, whether it’s around the corner or miles away, affects people’s lives in many ways. A smooth transition to a new place involves understanding the process and getting the support necessary to make the move a success.
Understand the costs Apart from the fees associated with buying a home, relocating involves hiring movers, unpacking belongings, temporary storage rentals, charges to turn on/off utilities, repairs for the new home, and several other expenses. If you’re moving because of a career opportunity, the company may contribute to some of the moving costs. Check
with a human resources professional to determine if the company provides relocation compensation.
Get out and meet people Use every opportunity to meet neighbors and people with shared interests. Attend community events and/or school functions. Some employers may have meetand-greet events. Online services like Meetup list groups of like-minded
people who may periodically meet up in your community. The sooner you make friends and acquaintances in your new town or city, the more likely you are to feel at home. With some planning and a little assistance, relocating can go smoothly.
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Research potential destinations Give ample thought to where you might live before uprooting yourself and your family if you have one. The career resource Change Recruitment suggests using the internet as much as possible to learn about the location. Sites like Niche can paint a picture of an area, providing information regarding its demographics, points of interest, schools, and much more. However, an in-person visit will be needed to get a true feel for the neighborhood.
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