Every aspect of your bedroom design can help or hinder your ability to get a good night’s rest. That’s why using natural design elements is the perfect way to fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. We live in a high-tech society with information at our fingertips 24/7. Unfortunately, the human brain wasn’t designed to be stimulated 24 hours a day. To get the deep restful sleep necessary for complete rejuvenation, the mind and body have to slow down and relax.
That’s where nature comes into play.
Nature’s Effects on the Mind and Body
Our bodies were meant to spend time in nature and yet many of us find ourselves in an indoor, urban environment for most of the day. However, it’s been found that spending time in a natural environment can reduce anxiety and depression.
A 2015 study found that a short 40-second view of a natural setting from an office window had the ability to improve employee concentration. Nature acted as the mind’s “reset” button. While you don’t necessarily need to concentrate at bedtime, nature rejuvenates the mind and helps you stay focused on the present, which is exactly what you need for better sleep.
Natural Design Options for the Bedroom
There are many ways to bring nature indoors. One of the easiest and most versatile options is a plant. Yes, traditional house plants can have a powerful impact on your mental well-being. They add organic shape, texture, and color to the bedroom with their mere presence.
Houseplants also come in all shapes and sizes to fit in with virtually any design. If your bedroom is minimalist with a monochromatic color scheme, you might want to consider the snake plant with its vertical leaves decorated with natural geometric patterns. It even made NASA’s list of plants that absorb biotoxins from indoor air! When placed near exterior doors, plants can create a transitional area into your home.
Another plant on NASA’s list, but with a completely different look than the snake plant, is the Peace Lily. A single white and yellow Lily provides a focal point for your desk, dresser, or nightstand. Another option is traditional English Ivy that can be draped from the top of a bookcase.
Hanging plants and terrariums are another trendy and beautiful way to bring nature inside. A terrarium full of succulents acts as its own natural eco-scape. Macramé plant hangers can be found in any color and add fun and texture. With plants, the options are only limited by your imagination.
If live plants aren’t your thing, artwork can be just as effective. A photograph of a leaf, tree, forest, or mountain can transport the mind and bring it to a relaxed state. There are also lamps designed with florals and other natural motifs that have a subtle touch of the outdoors.
Don’t forget the power of texture. Nothing is more natural than rock and stone, which can also be used in bedroom design. Furniture pieces with stone inlays, bookends, and decorative sculptures add depth and texture but with the warmth of color that works in modern or traditional homes.
Choose Pieces That Speak to You
You don’t need a complete remodel to add nature in the bedroom. A few well thought out pieces strategically placed can help relax you for better sleep. Look for accents and pieces that not only suggest nature but also fit with your personality and lifestyle so they’ll fit seamlessly into your life.