5 Little Ways to Make Your Home Feel More Relaxed

Set the Soundtrack

Queue up some music that never fails to put you in a good mood, and let that be the "soundtrack" for your home. Keep the record on your record player or have the playlist ready to go on Spotify, and whenever you need a pick-me-up or when you get home from a long day, switch on your favorite songs.

Choose a Signature Scent

You know how some stores have a signature scent that always seems to waft through the air—why not choose one for your home? Let it be something soothing, like lavender or palo santo. You can either use an essential oil diffuser or an incense burner if you have one, or mix up a spray from distilled water and essential oils.

Another option: choose a nostalgic scent that brings back warm memories. Freshly baked cookies, anyone?

Focus on Soft Surfaces

To make your entire home textural and cozy, layer on comfy throw blankets and pillows. Start with the areas where you're spending the most time, whether that's the living room sofa, a favorite lounge chair, your bed, or a home office area. Search the linen closet or storage chest for spare blankets you haven't pulled out in a while.

Soften the Lighting

Harsh overhead lighting can ruin the relaxed vibe in any home. If you can, use non-traditional lighting. Add fairy lights or switch off the overheads and turn on floor or table lamps. If your lamps have adjustable settings or are on dimmers, switch them to a lower setting when you're relaxing with a puzzle or watching TV as a family.

Establish Some Screen-free Time

Maybe it's after 9 p.m. or for two hours after dinner, set a specific time for your household to go screen-free. It's helpful to give yourself a chance to decompress (and your eyes an opportunity to rest).

What can you do instead of scrolling for hours? How about working on a craft, reading, painting, or meditating, either solo or with your family or roommates?