As we continue adjusting to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, our houses are playing a much more significant role in our wellbeing. Everything from work to recreation is all done at home now, and these become more difficult to separate as time passes. Many are taking this as an opportunity to revamp their living and workspaces to better encourage wellness and self-care. 

Americans are also staying in their houses for longer periods of time: AARP’s recent survey suggests that 90% of people 65 and up want to age in place. Creating a home that feels comfortable and safe can boost life satisfaction, especially for empty nesters and women with spirit.

If you’re looking for a way to revitalize your space, repainting is a simple, cost-efficient project that can have a major impact on your day-to-day mood. According to principles from color theory, choosing more subtle, neutral shades of colors can help create a calm and relaxing environment throughout different rooms. Read on to learn how you can use the following colors to improve relaxation at home.

Pink

The warm, bubbly feelings brought on by the color pink make it a fantastic color for bedrooms and bathrooms. Deeper shades of pink (like rose or mauve) work well for living rooms and family areas as they can help maximize space and emphasize other colors in the room.

Gray

Though we often associate gray with bad weather and dreariness, it can actually bring a sense of grace and style to your home that’s unmatched. Lighter shades of gray encourage peace in living spaces and common areas like dining rooms and family rooms. 

Blue

Blue is one of the most multifaceted and useful colors in home design. Dark hues can bring out cooler accents and increase productiveness in workspaces, and lighter shades make it easier to relax in recreation and personal spaces. We also associate blue with water, which brings a feeling of cleanliness that can be applied to bathrooms and laundry rooms.

Purple

During such difficult times, it’s easy to feel trapped in your situation. Consider incorporating rejuvenating shades of purple to bring feelings of authenticity and reflection to your home. Since it’s a color that encourages meditation and deep thought, purple makes a great color for office spaces or studies.

Brown/Beige

Whether they are cooler taupe shades or warmer tan shades, brown is a versatile color that can bring comfort and familiarity to your home decor. Something is inviting yet modest about brown, which renders it a color suited for more social areas of your home like a den or a living room. 

Green

When we think of relaxation, we often think of elements of nature, which brings the color green to mind. Warmer sage and mint-blue shades of green encourage pondering and contemplation and foster positivity. Using lighter and cooler shades of green will bring tranquility to your home, so it’s best to avoid shades that are too vibrant or intense. 

By implementing these color schemes, you’re one step closer to a home where winding down and de-stressing in trying times are seamless. But there are ways to take this accomplishment another step further. Leveling up and accentuating the peaceful elements of your home through other decor is a great way to make your space even more calming.

For example, one of the most common catalysts (and results) of stress is cluttered spaces. Organization is crucial when curating restful living and working spaces, and staying on top of it is an important key to a stress-free life. Taking time out of your day to declutter rooms in your home allows for the soothing effects of cool color palettes to take full effect without distractions.

Another important way to bring out these colors is by making the best possible use of natural lighting. Investing in highly revealing blinds and curtains that are not too opaque will allow the sunlight to illuminate your home, which is important in keeping your spirits up and regulating your body’s sleep schedule.

Understanding the impact that colors can have on your mental and emotional health is key to maintaining wellness during a difficult period. Once you learn how to curate your decor to highlight the color schemes that work best for you, you’ll be well on your way to a home that is both calming and pleasing to the eye. For more information, check out HomeAdvisor’s comprehensive guide on color theory and creating a zen space.