Most people enjoy the feeling of being surrounded by nature. However, depending on where you live, you may not have easy access to green spaces. Luckily, that doesn’t mean you can’t have a taste of the outdoors even when you’re inside. One room which easily lends itself to an outdoorsy vibe is the bedroom. It’s where you rest and rejuvenate so it needs to be calming, yet inspiring and adding touches of nature can cover both bases.
There are a number of benefits to being exposed to nature. Natural environments can help to relieve stress, reduce blood pressure and heart rate, and generally improve your feeling of wellbeing. Sleep also plays a major role in your health and wellbeing. Quality sleep reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke, and Type 2 diabetes and improves productivity and concentration. There’s a lot that can be gained from having a nature-inspired bedroom.
If you’re wondering just how you can make your bedroom mimic nature while ensuring it’s conducive to sleep, here are some tips.
Add Plants and Flowers
This may be obvious to people who enjoy gardening but if you don’t have a green thumb, you may not have thought about it. However, potted plants and fresh flowers will give your bedroom an immediate boost. The trick is to get hardy plants which don’t need too much attention. Cacti are quite low maintenance, but you are by no means limited to these. Jade, aloe, pothos, and snake plants are both beautiful and easy to grow. If you’re confident in your plant-rearing abilities, you can even get a small tree.
Use Natural Materials
Outdoors isn’t all greenery and blooms. Wood and stone are natural elements which can put a different spin on your interior décor. If you’re now building your home or you’re undertaking major renovations, stone walls are a great idea. However, you can also get a rustic wooden headboard, a modern stone chair or even some eclectic driftwood art.
Embrace Natural Bedding
Linens often get overlooked but they are a simple, less dramatic way to get your much-needed dose of nature. Why not treat yourself to some 100% extra-long staple Egyptian cotton bedding sets? Ethically made linens with non-abrasive, non-chemical finishes are as close to nature as you’ll get while sleeping indoors. It doesn’t hurt that they get softer with use. If you plan to add bolder outdoors-inspired pieces to the room, it’s best to keep your sheets on the simpler side.
Let in as Much Light as Possible
You’ll want darkness at night but during the day, your bedroom can feel fresh and airy if you let in lots of light. It’ll boost your mood and make the room a lot more comfortable. If you opt to give houseplants a try, they’ll also benefit from the extra light. Large windows will help but skylights offer maximum impact. You’ll even get to see the stars on clear nights.
Add Rattan Accessories
If you can’t be in the middle of nature, bring some rattan inside and create an earthy feel. Even if you only set up a small nook, you’ll get a taste of the outdoors. You can find a wide range of pieces made from rattan including furniture, storage bins, mirrors, floor mats, and vases. If you can’t give your room a complete makeover, these touches will make a world of difference.
Seek Out Nature-Inspired Artwork
Another way to bring the outdoors inside is to hang nature-inspired prints, photos, tapestries or paintings on the walls. Whether it’s a beach scene, landscape or close-up of a tree or rock, it’ll transport you elsewhere without you having to leave your home. Shadow boxes with pressed flowers and leaves can also be impactful. Just be sure to choose calming pieces and nothing that’s too busy. Consider artwork that’s on the smaller so it doesn’t overwhelm the bedroom.
Try a Color Scheme Which Reflects Nature
If you’re willing to take on a larger project, you can switch up your color scheme. Green and earth-toned walls paired with natural art can really improve the look of your bedroom. However, you can also incorporate blues and whites to reflect the sky or ocean-inspired colors like aqua. If repainting the walls is not an option, you can use these tones in art and furniture.
If you love the great outdoors, being inside can leave you feeling a bit depressed. However, incorporating as many natural elements as possible can breathe new life into your bedroom. Install large windows to get as much natural light on your face as possible when the sun rises. Create an indoor jungle with potted plants and trees or use soft natural fibers on your bedding. You’re only limited by your preferences and your imagination. Use these seven tips to help you get started.
Author’s Bio: Sebastian Morales is Founder and CEO of Good & Bed. Prior to Starting Good & Bed, Sebastian was an investment banker based in New York City.