The Link Between Nature-Inspired Interiors and a Calmer Mind
We live in a time where there's a lot going on. A lot of noise, rush, stimulation and distractions. Therefore, a growing number of people would like to find simple ways to achieve more inner-peace in their daily routines. The best place to start this process is right in your own home. Your surroundings greatly affect how you feel, how you think, and even how well you sleep. Therefore, nature-inspired interior design has been growing in popularity. Nature-inspired interior design is not simply another fad or trend; it gives you an opportunity to build spaces that will help you feel more grounded, more restored, and much more comfortable.
Nature-inspired interiors take inspiration from the colors, textures, materials and overall atmosphere of nature. For example, consider the soft earthy tones, natural wood finishes, woven basketry, linen fabrications, stone accents, houseplants and an abundance of natural light. Each element works synergistically to provide a space that feels less jarring and more calming. Spaces designed to resemble the serenity of nature typically elicit the same response within the human mind.
How Nature Provides a Sense of Calmness
As humans, we were once surrounded solely by the natural world. Before man-made structures, computer screens and urban noise existed, we relied solely upon nature. Due to this historical relationship with the natural world, natural environments continue to evoke feelings of safety and being "settled." Although we may not be able to spend hours outside every day, introducing elements of the natural world into our homes allows us to recapture some of those positive emotions.
A space filled with synthetic materials, overly-bright artificial lighting and excessive visual stimuli can exhaust us emotionally. Conversely, a space featuring soft colors, organic textures and natural features tends to promote relaxation in our nervous systems and foster an environment that feels slow-paced, soft and easy to breathe in.
Using Earth Tones – An Effective Way To Reduce Stress Through Colour
Fire Hibiscus by Botanique Prints
One of the most straightforward methods through which nature-inspired interiors can contribute positively to a person's mental state is through color. Generally speaking, natural hues are less taxing on the eye and less mentally fatiguing than vibrant artificial hues. Examples of these colors include soft green tones (i.e., mosses), warm beige tones, muted brown tones, sandy cream tones, clay tones and gentle blue tones. These colors tend to be very relaxing and provide a sense of calmness.
Unlike bold, highly-saturated colors that tend to command a person's attention, these colors form a calming background that invites restfulness and concentration. As a result, spaces utilizing earthy tones tend to appear both stable and inviting. This can be particularly beneficial in areas of the home intended for unwinding such as bedroom spaces, sitting spaces or reading nooks.
Texture Plays a Much Larger Role Than We Realize
Calmness is not merely achieved by what we visually perceive. It is influenced heavily by what we physically experience. Nature-inspired interiors frequently incorporate various organic textures that impart warmth and softness to a space. Examples include linen curtain panels, wool throw blankets, wooden furniture surfaces, rattan accent pieces and ceramics. These materials serve to create a physical link between a person and the natural world.
In addition to creating a more lived-in feeling versus an overly polished/clinical feeling in a home, natural textures also encourage a sense of comfort as opposed to requiring perfect aesthetics. Too-perfect or too sterile spaces can sometimes heighten stress levels as opposed to reducing them. Organic textiles assist in developing a sense of grounding in a space that influences a person's mood subtly yet profoundly.
The Impact of Plants, Light and Open Space
Of course, one of the most recognizable elements of nature-inspired design are houseplants. And for good reason – plants introduce life, color and freshness to an otherwise stagnant space. Whether it is a single potted plant placed on a bookshelf or windowsill or several plants arranged throughout a room, houseplants can significantly soften a room and promote a greater sense of peace.
In addition to plants, natural light also serves a significant role. While sunlight promotes an openness and upliftment in a space and contributes positively to our mood, heavy/dimly-lit spaces can have an adverse impact on our moods. By keeping window treatments minimal/open, using lighter-weight fabrics to block out excess light and placing furnishings in optimal positions relative to sunlight exposure can all contribute to a brighter/more tranquil environment.
Finally, just as important as both light and plants is space itself. Nature does not feel crowded or chaotic. A nature-inspired home tends to incorporate a great deal of breathing space (fewer items/clutter) with a greater emphasis on thoughtful intention. The visual simplicity promoted by fewer items/clutter can also contribute to promoting the quieting of an anxious or busy mind.
Achieving Peaceful Comfort in Your Own Home
Fortunately, nature-inspired interiors do not necessarily require an entire home renovation or large budgetary expenditure. Small incremental changes can produce significant effects. For example, adding a reclaimed wood tray, adding a vase containing dried flowers or foliage, incorporating neutral-colored pillows/cushions or adding a few small leafy plants can each help begin shifting the emotional climate of a room.
Ultimately, nature-inspired interiors serve as reminders that your home should not only be aesthetically pleasing; it should also represent your desire for inner peace. When your living space represents calmness, balance and softness similar to those qualities inherent in nature; it is likely that your mind will respond similarly.