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With all of the stress that surrounds us, one place we shouldn’t have to deal with added stress is in our own homes. The problem, however, is that too few of us take the time to make our homes the center for relaxation, our safe haven or sanctuary if you will. If you’re willing to put in a little time and effort, though, you can easily transform your home into a relaxing, stress-free place just for you, and all you need is a little paint, the right lighting, and a few other unique upgrades.

Get Rid of the Clutter

Over-stuffing is one of the biggest distractors from relaxation. Piles of books and clothes or items in general disarray is one of the biggest stress-inducers in any home. So, as you begin your home transformation, the first place you should start is getting rid of some of the clutter. Go through your things and sort what you want to keep and what can be donated or even sold. Be mindful that your goal is to create a relaxing space, and it’ll be easier to get rid of a few things here and there.

Change the Paint

Painting is one of the single most effective ways to change the feel of a room without making too big of an investment. If your room is bathed in a loud print or a bright color, it is obviously not going to be soothing or relaxing. Opt for colors that are soft and airy instead. Shades of blue and green are especially good for bedrooms while neutral earth tones are great for rooms throughout your living space. Whatever color you choose, just remember to keep the combined color scheme simple, calming, and comforting.

Select the Right Furniture

As you transform your home, you’ll want to consider comfortable relaxing furniture as well. For everyday pieces, focus on choosing furniture that is functional and comfortable. Remember to choose pieces that work together, too, instead of combat one another in form or design. If you want to really up the relaxation factor in your home, look for a massage chair that you can home to each evening. Having unique pieces that exude relaxation and comfort is one of the best ways to make your space relaxing and renewing.

Check Your Lighting

Lighting is another component that can really add to or take away from the ambiance of your home. To increase the relaxation-factor of your home, focus on lighting locations, not the whole rooms. Bright overhead lighting is often too aggressive, especially in the evening when you are trying to calm down and soothe your senses. Lamps and other single lighting features are great for adding soothing lighting to an area. To soften the light of larger overhead options, add a dimmer to the lighting fixture so you can adjust the brightness to fit your mood. Also, select full-spectrum bulbs that are made to mimic natural light, instead of standard bulbs that are too bright. These lighting options will help create a more soothing, natural atmosphere in your home.

Create Your Own Personal Spa

Don’t have time to make it to the local spa? Don’t worry. You can have a spa in your very own bathroom. This change is a slightly more costly renovation, but it is well worth the investment. Consider installing a jetted tub where you can sit and relax at the end of the day. Heated floors are a nice touch for coming home and relaxing or even just staying warm on an especially chilly day. And, there are few things more relaxing than a shower after a long stressful day. Finish your bathroom off with fine touches like granite countertops and tile flooring and you’ll have a space that rivals even the most upscale spas.

Your home should be your sanctuary, and with a few simple upgrades, it can be. Transform your home into your haven of relaxation and look forward to living right where you are every single day.