Your home isn’t just where you sleep—it’s where life happens. It’s the backdrop to your
morning coffee, your kids’ giggles (and tantrums), and those rare quiet moments you
get to yourself. And guess what? The way your space feels has a huge impact on your
mood, energy, and overall well-being.

Studies show that a tidy, comfy home lowers stress and boosts happiness. Makes
sense, right? Picture this: You’ve got a house full of kids, dishes piling up in the sink,
laundry everywhere, and your "office" is now a playroom. Trying to focus? Forget it—
your laptop is buried under a pile of tiny socks. Unwinding? Not happening—there’s no
space that feels like yours. And physically? That constant stress is creeping into your
body as exhaustion and tension.

Your environment matters. Just like eating nourishing foods keeps your body healthy,
creating a home that feels good feeds your soul. And there’s no one-size-fits-all
approach! Some people thrive in bright, vibrant spaces, while others need soft tones
and minimal clutter to feel at peace. Whether you’re a city-lover or dream of open
countryside, your home should support the life you want.

Use the exercise on the following pages to reflect on your own home environment and
explore ways to create a more positive space.

REFLECT ON YOUR HOME ENVIRONMENT
• Describe your current home environment in detail.
• How does it make you feel?
• Envision your ideal home environment.
• How is it different from your current home? Tune in to how you want to feel mentally,
emotionally, and physically. Use images, scents, feelings, and sounds to describe your
ideal home environment.

EXPLORING WAYS TO CREATE A MORE POSITIVE SPACE

No matter who you are or what kind of home environment you are looking to create,
there are a variety of ways to spice up your living space. Here are some simple and
practical ways to create a home environment that feels good, even with little ones
running around:

1. Declutter in Small Steps
• Set a timer for 10–15 minutes daily to tackle small areas.
• Use baskets or bins to quickly gather toys, clothes, or random items.
• Follow the “one in, one out” rule—if something new comes in, donate or toss
something old.

2. Create a “Parent-Only” Space
• Even if it’s just a cosy chair in the corner, have a spot that’s just for you (and let
everyone know, even the kiddos!)
• Keep it clutter-free and add something calming, like a soft blanket or a scented
candle.

3. Make Cleaning Easier
• Keep wipes and cleaning sprays in key areas for quick clean-ups.
• Use a laundry basket in every room to collect random items at the end of the
day.
• Turn cleaning into a game with kids—set a timer and race to see who can clean
up the fastest!

4. Bring in Nature
• Open windows daily for fresh air.
• Add a few plants—they boost mood and air quality.
• Let in natural light or use warm, soft lighting in the evenings for a cosy vibe.

5. Set Up Simple Routines
• A quick 5-minute reset before bed can make mornings easier.
• Have a designated “drop zone” for keys, bags, and shoes to avoid clutter piling
up.
• Create a calming bedtime routine with dim lights, soft music, or a diffuser with
lavender oil.

6. Use Storage Wisely
• Get bins or baskets for toys and label them (even with pictures for younger kids).
• Use furniture with hidden storage, like ottomans or under-bed bins.
• Keep only essentials in high-traffic areas to reduce visual clutter.

7. Make Space for Joy
• Display family photos or kids’ artwork in a special spot.
• Have a playlist of uplifting music to play while cooking or tidying up.
• Keep a small basket of activities (like puzzles or colouring books) for stress-free
family bonding.

Did you know that in Japan, it’s customary to thank the home you live in? It’s all about
intention! So before I go, take a moment to think about the overall intention you wish
for your home, yourself, and your family. Then, come up with three simple ways to
bring more positive energy into your space. ✨ 🏡

A happy home doesn’t have to be perfect—just functional, cosy, and a space that
works for your family! 😊