Inject a Tree

A good night’s rest is crucial to be able to function well each day. How your bedroom is designed can have an effect on whether you get a good or a poor night’s sleep. The design and color of your bedroom sets a certain atmosphere. The atmosphere will either be relaxing or stressful. How can you create a tranquil bedroom atmosphere that will promote the best relaxation and sleep?

How You Associate Your Bedroom

It’s important to associate your bedroom with relaxation and sleep. It’s psychologically difficult to switch from activities to sleep if you use your bedroom for more than sleeping. You may have no choice but to have items such as an office desk, computer, etc. in your bedroom. If so, try to separate them from your main area where you sleep. You could use a folding screen or a curtain to separate into two individual areas in the same room.

If you have room in other areas of your house for your office desk, computer or other non-bedroom items, give thought to moving these items out of your bedroom.

The Color

Color affects mood. The color you choose for your bedroom is very important. Avoid using ‘energy’ colors such as red, orange or yellow. Instead, opt for colors that are soothing such as cool blue, light lavender, neutrals or earth tones. The color you choose should be associated with calmness and not activity.

Get Rid of Clutter

Do a clean sweep in your bedroom and get rid of clutter once and for all. Clutter causes stress. A well-organized and clean bedroom will be more soothing and help you to relax and fall asleep more peacefully. Do you have too many accessories and accents in your room? Use only items you really love. Use the rest in another room or store them away.

If the arrangement of your furniture is cluttered, think of ways to rearrange it for the best feel. Think in terms of less is more. A spacious bedroom is more relaxing. If you don’t need all the furniture that is in your bedroom, think of where else in your home it could be used.

The Bedding

A comfortable mattress will help to alleviate back and muscle strain. A good pillow is also necessary to prevent neck pain. Both will help ensure a good night’s rest. Be sure to replace mattresses and pillows when they have lost their support.

Comfortable and soft materials for sheets and blankets can also help you get a better night’s sleep. You may need to change these, depending on the season. Silk may be too cold for winter and flannel will probably not feel very good in summer. Of course, we all have individual preferences.

Lighting is Important

Light is associated with daytime and activity. If light is coming through your window before you are ready to get up, your sleep will be disturbed. Use room-darkening shades or blinds or heavy curtains to keep the light out until you are awake. For those who work night shift and sleep during the day, this can be especially beneficial.

Another option for blocking light while you are sleeping is an eye mask.

Dampen the Noise

Not only will light interfere with a good night’s sleep, but noise can, also. Use a sound effects machine or ear plugs if you live in a very noisy area. Background noise from a radio or any type of soothing music can also be helpful. Anything with ‘white noise’ such as a fan works for many people.

A few simple changes in your bedroom can create a totally different atmosphere. More importantly, you will be able to unwind and get a good night’s sleep.