Now that many people are spending more time in their homes than they have before, the impact that our indoor environment has on our mental and emotional health is more clear than ever. You don't need to do a complete makeover or a top-to-bottom renovation in order to reap these wellness benefits. Whether it's hanging a painting that livens up your living room or adjusting the lighting in your bedroom to convert it into a relaxing sanctuary, there are several small things you can do to create a stress-free living environment.
Below, our staffers break down the small home updates they're making this fall so that their living spaces meet their emotional needs while also boosting their mental mood.
Jess Teves, Head of Content
Manor House Weekend Candle in Mountain Lace
There's the old adage that subtle, soft lighting makes all the difference in a home, and while that's absolutely true, I believe it's also about a rich, memorable scent that relaxes you and feels luxurious. That said, the candles from Otherland do this in spades and while I'm loving a variety of their amazing scents, the Mountain Lace (part of their manor house weekend collection) really has my heart this fall. It's slightly fruity yet vibrant scent makes my home feel like the sanctuary I need it to be.
Flatware Set
You may not think of flatware when it comes to wellness, but hear me out. Eating is a spiritual experience. It's about nourishing your body and mind with vibrant food, and it's also about the experience of dining. I'm a huge fan of Fable's flatware because it elevates any dining experience with simple elegance (think: gold matte finish and stunning clean lines). Bonus: This brand is a zero-waste company and only partners with makers across the globe who prioritize sustainability and craftsmanship.
Soho Agenda with Pocket
I consider my Smythson agenda planner an essential tool in my wellness arsenal. It helps me mentally stay aware of what's upcoming, plan my calendar (which these days is chock full of meetings, kid sports classes, school, and more), while also helping keep my to-dos organized. And while, yes, I could do this on my phone/computer, I love the easy elegance of this old-school leather planner. It's an experience to sit down and take in what's next and organize my thoughts, which in my opinion is pretty critical in this ever-busy world we live in. Also, pro tip: order the monogrammed engraving for an extra touch of personalization
Ama Kwarteng, Beauty Editor
Yearly Subscription
Rather than reaching for my cell phone first thing in the morning, I've started reading poetry as a form of meditation to ease into the day. In the past, I've opted to read a poem out of one of the books I have laying around my apartment, but I've recently enjoyed reading poems housed within literary journals. There's a wide range of poets featured and a nice variety in style which makes it easy to stumble upon new writers.
Infrared Sauna Blanket V3
I'm looking forward to introducing this at-home infrared sauna blanket into my routine to not only loosen up the tension in my shoulders, but also to bring down my stress levels. The infrared technology works both as a mood-booster while also relaxing the mind, which provides a nice way to unwind following a long work day.
Body Butter
I'm really into body care—I always have been—and I consider it a part of my overall self-care routine. The rich texture of this body butter elevates my post-shower routine without leaving my skin greasy. The shea butter- and olive oil-filled formula smells absolutely divine and it absorbs into the skin quickly, leaving your body feeling soft, smooth, and moisturized.
Greg Brossia, Managing Director and Chief Digital Officer
Aura Bright Light Therapy Lamp
Seasonal depression is a real thing, people, and this lamp is one of the best things you could have in your home to ward off the winter 'blahs.' It comes with four different settings—including sunlight and wellness light therapy—giving your space the right amount of mood lighting to soothe your nerves and boost your energy.
Cinderose Candle
If you're looking to evoke a calming aroma in your home, consider this candle, which contains notes of rose, orange blossom, and jasmine, along with smoke, cedar, and birch tar to fill the room with a warm yet bright scent that won't overwhelm the senses.
Caroline Dunn, Affiliate Coordinator
Linen Sheet Set
These are the temp-controlled, super luxe, thick linen sheets of my dreams. Linen may not be your first choice of fabric when you think of sheets, but you'll never go back to cotton or silk after trying all that MagicLinen has to offer.
Canopy Candle
This candle is the signature scent of my apartment, and, thankfully, it also looks so cute on my counter. I've always loved the idea of an evergreen-scented candle, but I've been hesitant to commit to it fully outside of the holiday season. This one brings in the tree-like scent with notes of fig, making it way more palatable for year round.
Liam Blue Light Glasses
These are by far the most comfortable blue light glasses, or glasses in general, that I have ever worn. I've found that even my prescription glasses begin to feel uncomfortable after too long of wear, but this pair from Look Optic is so light that I forget I'm wearing them until I see my face on Zoom!
Nick Papa, Brand Partnerships & Sales Lead
Pure Cool TP01 Purifying Fan
This fan is just as practical as it is sleek. It offers an incredible purifying system that draws in pollutants to keep air clean while also cooling any decently sized room. I love that it has a remote, so I can control the fan and oscillation from the comfort of my own bed.
The Reyes Stool
I love a furniture piece that is multifunctional while also being incredibly well-made and chic— which is basically every Maiden Home product. This one, though, is a standout; it can be a side table one moment and an ottoman the next with the optional buttery-soft leather seat cushion.
Molded Latex Pillow
Ok, this pillow has literally changed the way I sleep. I no longer toss and turn or wake up to re-fluff my pillow in the middle of the night because it holds its shape throughout. Not only is it perfectly firm, it also helps to regulate temperature, too. I cannot recommend this pillow enough!
Leya Kaufman, Head of Sales
Gold UBarre
Home office decor that doubles as multifaceted full-body sculpting equipment? Sign me up. I love the idea of showcasing multiple weights out in the open disguised as art. In muted colors and elegant design, these UBarres fit the home aesthetic I'm going for, too.
Standing Desk
This is another home office addition that prioritizes overall wellness and combats the afternoon energy slump. While I don't stand the entire day, having the option to push my chair to the side for a few hours has drastically changed both my posture and activity level.
Plush Microfiber Robe
Every few years, I reinvest in a robe that has the ability to turn my bathroom into a spa. There's just something about throwing on a plush microfiber robe like this that makes it nearly impossible to forget how important self-care is for overall wellness and well-being.
Photo: Courtesy of Instagram/@otherlandco
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