5 steps to creating a calming spa-like space at home

Over the last few years, I really struggle not to write an article and, in some way, reference the pandemic or lockdown, or ‘unprecedented times’ and how it’s affected how we live in our homes. We spend the best part of a year inside our home, and it’s had a huge impact on how we now want to use our spaces. Such a big shift has seen us all wanting to create more calming spaces, making our rooms more inviting, more relaxing, more comforting and cosier. We want a space that feels like a constant, cocooning escape.

So, just in time for the launch of the new Yankee Candle® Ultrasonic Aroma Diffuser, we’ve pulled together the easiest ways to make your rooms feel more zen-like – simple switches that will make all the difference. 

1. Get the lighting right 

Creating a zen-like space in your bedroom or living room needn’t require a total overhaul. There are so many small switches you can make to instantly make the space feel calmer, and lighting is one of them. Ditch the overhead lighting, you want a soft warm glow that disperses throughout the room – nothing too harsh and no really strong pools of light. Table lamps and floor lamps are ideal for this softer lighting. Ensure you have a few scattered about the room, so you aren’t just relying on one source.

(Image credit: Yankee Candle®)

2. Fill the room with calming scents

Once the lighting has started creating the right atmosphere, turn to scents. We often find aromas within a room can change the feel of a space as much as a new cushion can. The new Yankee Candle® Ultrasonic Aroma Diffuser can create the perfect ambiance. Just five to seven drops of the Aroma Diffuser Oils (which come in some of the classic Yankee Candle® fragrances, including our favourite Pink Sands™) and the room fills with a beautifully scented mist that lasts for up to eight hours.

As well as scent, the diffuser features customisable LED light settings so you can pick from 10 soft coloured lights to add to the atmosphere. If it’s just the relaxing fragrances you want, the light can be turned off too. There’s next to no noise so nothing to distract and there’s an auto switch-off function so you can relax knowing the diffuser will turn off by itself. 

3. Declutter the space

Because no one can relax fully in a cluttered space, ensure you have a quick tidy before getting into zen mode. Clear any surfaces of things that will distract you, like coffee mugs, laptops, any leftover work, stray dog/kid’s toys, shoes, clothes, etc. Make the space feel fresh and clean, like nothing in there is going to draw you away from a few hours of relaxation. 

(Image credit: Yankee Candle®)

4. Make simple decorative switches 

A few quick and easy switches can make a room feel instantly more relaxing. Neutral hues are known for their calming qualities, plus with spring not so far away, it’s the perfect time of year to switch to a lighter colour scheme. Change out throws and cushions to pale hues like white, cream, beige and light grey and choose lighter fabrics too, such as linens that have a lovely slubby, tactile feel. 

5. Bring the outside in

We needn’t harp on about the benefits of houseplants, but they are perfect for bringing literal life into a room. They can help purify the air and encourage a better sense of wellbeing. Additionally, they are ideal for adding colour and shape to a space – try them on a coffee table, sideboard or shelving. If you don’t have the greenest of fingers, pick something low maintenance like an aloe vera or a peace lily that will thrive in most conditions.