A Professional Explores the Role of an "Interior Design Therapist": Insights on Designing a Peaceful Home that Soothes the Mind and Cultivates Inner Peace
Need help creating a cozy, calming sanctuary amidst life's chaos? Enter the world of interior design therapy, where styles meet psychology to tackle your emotional baggage. No, we're not talking about throwing out your messy laundry piles (although that might help). We're referring to a specialized approach that transforms your living spaces into mental health powerhouses.
Sarah Seung-McFarland Ph.D, with a whopping 12 years of trauma and abuse experience under her belt, has become a beacon in the field. Having previously outsourced her interior design expertise, she's now certified in the discipline, offering her clients in-house services tailored to their unique needs.
Her mission? Self-actualization, helping individuals reach their peak potential. From attachment issues causing hoarding habits to battling procrastination or indecision fatigue, or escaping negative home associations, Sarah's expertise covers a wide range.
With the pandemic leaving us all yearning for a little TLC, we asked Sarah to spill her secrets on crafting a space that feeds the soul. Brace yourselves for five game-changing design tips guaranteed to turn your abode into a serene escape:
1. Colors with Personality
Ever noticed how specific colors bring forth different emotions? That's the magic of color psychology, and Sarah's here to help you harness it. Warmers, like reds and oranges,oj provide an energetic boost, while cooler tones, such as blues and greens, soothe the soul. Assigning different colors to conducive areas can work wonders on your mental state. Want a stimulating laundry room? A fiery red might do the trick. Prefer a relaxing reading space? Consider calming blues for the win.
2. Mother Nature's Healing Touch
NotUp for a acres-wide botanical garden? Introduce the outdoors into your home through plants. Research shows that plants can inhibit depression, boost creativity, and enhance problem-solving skills. Plus, they just make your space feel downright delicious. Position greenery in your peaceful relaxation zones for maximum impact.
3. Mindful Declutter, Not Ruthless
Tackle clutter with a compassionate approach. Examine the items that truly resonate with you, capturing the essence of your space, rather than mindlessly tossing everything out. Remember, YOU get to decide what stays and what goes.
4. Embrace the Emptiness (or Don't)
Dealing with an empty wall or space? First, ask yourself, is it feeling neglected because you're feeling stuck elsewhere in life? If so, maybe this area can become your catalyst for change. Pick a design that sparks inspiration and sets you on a path towards personal growth. On the flip side, sometimes an empty, minimalist space is what we need during chaotic times to regain balance.
5. True Outward Expression
Your living space should never feel like a museum exhibit or a runway showcase. Revisit your style roots and design with genuine elements that truly express who you are. Avoid getting swept up in fleeting trends that might leave you feeling disconnected from your personal space. Instead, choose pieces that tell your story and spark feelings of warmth and coziness at home.
And remember, your home isn't just a physical structure – it's a sanctuary for your soul. So let these design tips help guide you to a space where you can truly feel at peace and become the best version of yourself.
Incorporate colors that evoke distinct emotions within your interior spaces, as according to Sarah Seung-McFarland, colors like reds and oranges stimulate energy, while blues and greens soothe the mind.
Revitalize your home by bringing nature indoors through greenery, as plants have been shown to combat depression, enhance creativity, and perfect problem-solving skills.
When dealing with clutter, approach it with empathy, keeping cherished items that reflect your personal tastes and letting go of unwanted possessions.
Consider filling a vacant space with a design that serves as a catalyst for personal growth, or embrace minimalism to attain balance during turbulent times.
Express your individuality throughout your home decor, ensuring your living space genuinely tells your story and develops an inviting, cozy atmosphere, instead of following fleeting trends.
