If you have any option to create a nook where you can retire to after all the noise, mayhem and a hard day’s work, we suggest you do it now. Space is certainly a problem for most of us. However, with a little planning, manoeuvring and rearranging of some furniture you can certainly create that calming, relaxing, inspiring ‘me time’ corner to go for a breather.
It doesn’t have to be a large space; you just need to clear out a corner of your living room or bedroom. If there’s a window to look out, that’s a bonus, but it’s not really a deal breaker. Just find a quiet corner that can accommodate a chair and a side table to hold a book, a piping hot coffee and some fragrance to get you into zen state as soon as you cosy up for some much-needed peace from the chaos.
So, if you’re ready to indulge in some ‘me time’ let’s see how you can get started on a small project to experiment and create your perfect reading, journalling and relaxation nook.
The Perfect Spot
Well, there are so many under-utilized spaces that you could experiment with. You could pick a corner in your bedroom or living room that could be sectioned off with a tall plant, or use a two-way bookshelf. While a corner next to a window would be ideal (if you’re lucky enough to have one); don’t fret if that’s not possible. Just pick a location that you can section off, but one that will also give you a good view of the room (you don’t want someone surprising you when you’re lost in thought). Word of caution: If you’re a believer of feng shui or Vaastu, avoid the place under the stairs as that’s supposed to hold a lot of negative energy.
The Comfy Chair
A chair with armrest and one that’s big enough to let you curl up your legs — that’s all that you should be aiming for. If you’re going for floor seating, add some colourful cushions and invest in a good throw blanket to cozy up as you read. Also get a footrest if you’re going to be using the space a lot to decompress and do some creative hobbies.
Rug and Lighting
Zoning out the place with a cushy rug is a nice way to demarcate your ‘me space’. Pick a patterned thick rug for that cushy comfort as you walk to your chair. This will also make it mentally clear that you’re walking into a place of rejuvenation. Also add mood lighting or a task lighting (based on what you plan to do there), such as a lampshade to direct the beam to your book or journal.
Side table and Wall Shelves
Where will you place your hot cup of cocoa? It’s a comfy corner, so a small table to hold your earthy teapot and serving plate for those decadent cookies (on cheat days, of course!) and your books is a done thing. Unless you have enough space don’t cram in a heavy bookshelf. You need an open aura, so add some wall shelves to hold some books, your journal, and a vase for those colourful begonias or white chrysanthemums.
Create an Ambience
What can be better than fragrances for creating the right mood? Place some scented candles, or an oil diffuser to recharge and enhance your mood. A ‘me time’ nook needs to feel like your own personal space and the right aroma will elevate the aura of your space. There’s something enchanting about candles. They instantly set the mood for reflection and are just what you need to really let your thoughts flow, whether you’re journalling, catching up on your reading or just musing.
From doing up your corner walls with accent wallpaper to adding photographs, there’s a lot you can do to personalise your space and make it your happy place. So, just choose the corner and start putting together your ‘me time’ nook. And when it’s done, don’t forget to play some music and diffuse some aromatic oils as you sip some piping hot filter coffee.
