The English language seems to be lacking somewhat when it comes to words to describe that inner contentment, stability, and peace of mind we typically refer to as “wellbeing”.
Maybe it’s for that reason, therefore, that from time to time we look to borrow from other cultures to find just the right word to convey a lifestyle approach that summons up a sense of wellbeing a sense that, somehow, we can make everything that little bit better with the world.
Home furnishings website SCS has shared some of the tips and secrets of interior design that might bring greater wellness and wellbeing into your home.
Feng shui
Feng shui – literally “wind” and “water” in Chinese – is an ancient Eastern practice with a history stretching back at least 5,000 years. It has long been used to bring good health, prosperity and general wellbeing into people’s lives and homes.
2020 is an especially important year for feng shui, advises the Feng Shui Store, since this year of the Rat marks the very start of the cycle of the 12 animals in Chinese astrology – so you can expect major shifts in all manner of lifestyle energies.
Feng shui practices that can bring positive energy into your home include:
- clearing the path to your front door or weeds, rubbish, and clutter;
- place sofas and chairs where possible with their backs to the wall and a clear line of sight towards the door of the room;
- concentrate on the sensitive use of colour and light – and remember that any mirrors should be hung to reflect the good and attractive rather than the bad;
- fresh flowers add a positive and vibrant energy to any room – just remember to remove them once they begin to wilt and fade.
Hygge
Britons seem to have taken the Danish concept of hygge – pronounced “hoo-guh” according to Marie Claire magazine – is all about feeling warm, comfortable, and safe. As winter draws nigh, think cosy log fires, the flicker of candles, and comfy dressing-gowns.
As the concept has gained ground in this country, there have been endless arguments about the precise meaning of the word – and how to achieve it. Warmth and a laid-back and relaxed friendliness seem to lie at the heart of it – as you continue to strive for:
- cosy intimacy in the furnishings of your home – candles lit and slippers ready by the door for visitors to step straight into;
- natural colours, natural materials, natural fibres, and textures – a little bit of nature itself brought into your home;
- maintain a cosy atmosphere and brighten things up with neutral rather than garish colours.
Lagom
Some would argue that the Swedish concept of “lagom” has overtaken the Danish inkling for hygge, according to an article in Country and Town House magazine recently.
It is another of those words that has no exact or precise translation in English but is popularly interpreted to mean “not too much, not too little, but just right”. In place of the cosiness of the Danish hygge, lagom seems to stress that there is virtue in moderation and that enough can often be as good as a feast.
In terms of interior decorating and lifestyle choices, therefore, lagom is most likely to involve:
- simplicity – few accessories, no clutter and easy on the loud feature walls;
- practicality and accessibility – that coffee table needs to be placed just within an arm’s reach; and
- natural lighting, uncluttered windowsills, to let in the light – with colour and texture given by plants and flowers.
The ambience and atmosphere you create in your home may go a long way to encouraging your personal wellness and wellbeing – and concepts from other cultures may help you achieve those lifestyle goals.
