5. Diffuse Lavender in the Bedroom
Certain smells do impact us on a deep, psychological level, triggering specific responses. “Scent is most closely linked to memory, as smells are processed in the same part of our brain as stored memories,” says Dunford (which research has shown to be the case). This means that you can use scents you’re most drawn to to create a “scent-scaped space” that helps you relax or feel happier.
Specific scents have been studied for their ability to activate physical responses, and lavender is perfect for winding down at night, particularly if you struggle sleeping, per a randomized trial, or you’re dealing with illnesses or disorders that can impact sleep quality, like depression, cancer, or cardiac arrest, according to a review. “The science shows lavender is relaxing. Put a sachet of lavender under your pillow for you to smell as you dose off,” says Augustin.
6. Create Layered Lighting
Simple lighting changes can definitely set the mood in a room. If you’re trying to create a calming environment, Amy Bloomer, a professional organizer and owner of the design company, Let Your Space Bloom, says to use multiple, smaller sources of light, rather than a single, bright overhead light. (Bloomer earned a masters degree in organizational psychology from Columbia University in New York City.)
She suggests using candles, table and floor lamps, or even sconces or chandeliers to help create more layered lighting. This type of indirect lighting has been shown to decrease negative moods, according to a previous review.