4 Simple Home Ideas to Boost Your Lockdown Mood

There’s no denying that lockdown has been a difficult time for many of us in Manchester.

Now, with a roadmap out of restrictions, things are starting to look a little brighter but with strict limitations still in place for visiting friends and family, or even enjoying time outside in our beautiful location, it has never been more important to transform your home into the haven you deserve.

Whilst big redecoration jobs and renovations are not practical for many of us during this period; there are lots of small steps you can take to transform your home and boost your lockdown mood.

The team at Property Genius have come up with five ways to boost your mood and help get you through these strange times while also making your home a place you can enjoy.

1.   DECLUTTER YOUR HOME

The simplest, yet arguably the most effective way to boost your mood is to declutter. It’s quite therapeutic you know! In the past year, we have all spent more time at home than ever before, and the importance of having a tidy and organised space has never been more important.

Most of us are working, relaxing, sleeping and socialising (virtually) in the same space and no matter the size of your home, it can quickly begin to feel very small!

A thorough, ruthless declutter will work wonders for your mental health, and make your home feel more spacious and relaxing.

Be patient and tackle each room individually – don’t try and do every area at once. Separating your items into four distinct categories is the easiest method.

• Things you absolutely cannot live without

• Items to be resold

• Items to be donated to charity

• Things to be thrown away

1. FOCUS ON SCENT

Throughout lockdown, especially in the colder months, it can be difficult to keep your home smelling sweet when you can’t throw the windows open wide each day.

So, it is important to consciously choose scents for each room which can make a massive difference to your home overall, as well as your mood. For example, rosemary is well known for being the perfect energy booster.

Research shows rosemary oil can improve memory and fight muscle fatigue, making it the ideal scent for a weekday pick-me-up. Consider adding a rosemary wax melt to your office or workspace. This will get your home smelling amazing, boost your productivity and make you feel happier in general.

2. USE THE POWER OF PLANTS

Houseplants have grown tremendously in popularity over the past decade.

Particularly beneficial for those with limited access to a garden, houseplants allow us to bring a small element of the outdoors into our homes.

Adding greenery to any room will not only enhance the aesthetics but also leave you feeling fantastic. The beauty of houseplants is that they are interchangeable, and match pretty much any décor. Meaning, you can have fun experimenting with each plant in different areas of your home.

Studies show that the benefits of house plants include reducing stress and anxiety and increasing focus. They also undoubtedly improve the air quality in your home, whilst acting as a natural humidifier.

Most houseplants require very little upkeep. Place them in front of some natural light, water regularly, and they will thrive.

3. ADD SOME COLOUR

Many of us shy away from bright colours, especially when it comes to our walls. We tend to opt for neutrals, adding a splash of colour within our soft furnishings if we feel particularly adventurous.

There is a lot to be said for neutrals because they are so versatile, however, there has never been a better time to experiment with a little colour in your home than during lockdown.

Painting is therapeutic. Having a physical task to take your mind away from a screen will do wonders for your mental and physical health. The painting process can be a fun activity with the people you live with, or a solo task to help fill the pandemic days and distract your mind.

Additionally, having a splash of colour in your home gives an instantaneous high. This does not necessarily mean taking the paintbrush to every room in the house. Try an accent wall by simply cheering up one or two walls to completely transform the look of the space. This also does the job of enhancing your mood and making you smile during these trying times.

4. ADJUST YOUR LIGHTING

Although simply not possible in every home, consider your furniture placement and the natural light.

Natural sunlight is one of the most vital elements for maintaining focus and positive mental health. Whilst bright, sunny days may be few and far between during the winter lockdown in the UK, it has never been more important to make the most of what is available.

Try moving your desk near a window, to allow your mind to reap the rewards of the sunshine.

Additionally, consider investing in a sunrise alarm clock or Phillips Hue lighting system. These lights can cleverly and slowly brighten the room to naturally wake you in the morning, allowing your eyes and mind to adjust to the day gradually. This sets the right tone from the off and gives you an immediate mood boost.

Staying positive during lockdown can be hard, but the team at Property Genius are here for you.

Call us on 01618813028 or email contactus@property-genius.co.uk to chat with a member of our friendly and experienced team.