Creating a Peaceful, Restorative sanctuary during sickness: Step-by-step guide.
Being ill is no fun, you feel awful, you miss out on things, and even when you're tired, sleep seems elusive. This is the perfect time to step up your self-care game, especially by setting up a recovery space that promotes healing and rest. We talked to certified wellness coach Jamie Gold, who shares some tips on how to do just that.
Embrace a Mindset Shift
The first step is to rethink your downtime. Instead of viewing your recovery space as a lonely quarantine, think of it as a personal spa retreat. It's an opportunity to take care of yourself while your body does its healing work. Gold suggests creating a cozy, comfortable, and nurturing environment that meets most of your needs without requiring you to wander around the house.
Tend to Your Body
When you're ill, sleep is crucial. Aim to make your room a sanctuary for deep sleep, even during the day.
Make Your Bed Comfortable
Forget heavy blankets. Instead, opt for multiple light blankets or throws that you can easily adjust to your changing temperatures. Consider organic cotton bedding and throws, as they're not only good for you when you're sick but also year-round. A mattress topper can also add an extra layer of comfort.
Darken Your Room
If you lack blackout curtains or blinds, try using painters tape to attach a dark piece of fabric or paper to the window frame. This won't win awards for interior design, but it can temporarily block out some light.
Control Your Environment
Get the climate just right with portable space heaters, fans, or humidifiers. Remember to use them safely, and make sure to keep them clean to avoid spreading germs. An air purifier can help keep the air clean, especially if your room has wall-to-wall carpeting or heavy window treatments.
Nурture Your Mind
The recovery space isn't just about physical comfort—it's also about mental wellbeing.
Bring in Plants
Studies show that humans naturally appreciate nature, known as biophilia. Houseplants or fresh flowers can help make your recovery space feel more welcoming and uplifting.
Keep the Space Organized
Make sure the area directly around you is clutter-free. A small trash can for tissues and wrappers, and a spot for dishes can make the space more functional and comfortable. Don't forget to address mental clutter, too. Write down your concerns to help clear your mind.
Think About the Rest of Your Home
Prepare for your needs before you get sick by doing the following:
Choose a Bathroom
Designate a bathroom close to your room for exclusive use, or commit to regularly disinfecting high-touch surfaces to prevent germs from spreading.
Eat in Your Room
Prepare meals that you can eat in your room, and consider investing in a small table and chair to make eating more comfortable.
Consider Automation
Think ahead and install motion-activated light switches, touchless faucets, and hands-free door openers to reduce the spread of germs throughout your home.
And that's it—your guide to creating a soothing, healing sick room. By tending to your body, your mind, and the needs of those around you, you can make your recovery period as comfortable and restful as possible.
During the recovery period, you might find solace in decorating your housekeeping space to promote wellness. BaldwinHomeAndGarden (BHG) recommends focusing on the bedrooms, as they are crucial for sleep and healing. Gold suggests using light blankets and organic cotton bedding for comfort, while darkening the room with temporary solutions like painted fabric or paper. Controlling the environment with portable heaters, fans, or humidifiers can also aid in sleep.
Decorating advice includes incorporating plants for mental wellbeing, ensuring that the area is clutter-free, and writing down concerns to clear the mind. Preparing for potential sickness includes designating a bathroom, preparing meals, and considering automation to reduce germ spread. Gold also suggests thinking of the recovery space as a personal spa retreat, which can help shift mindset and promote healing.
Furthermore, improving house cleaning techniques can contribute to overall wellbeing. Deals on cleaning supplies, such as curtain deals, can make this process more affordable and rewarding. By focusing on these tips, you can create a comfortable and soothing space that actively supports your recovery.
