I know the importance of creating an intimate environment that includes Mother Nature during the long winter months of the north. But, I only know these things because I’ve lived in northern climates for most of my life. During the 1980s, I lived in Anchorage and still carry the Alaskan spirit with me wherever I go. Oregon, which is my home State, is a northern climate too, but it’s milder than Canada or Alaska.
Alaskan businesses wised up decades ago and routinely install full-spectrum lighting in their office buildings to help their employees and customers avoid seasonal affective disorder. Alternatively, it’s been my experience in Oregon that businesses are slow to get the point. But, full-spectrum lighting is not the only way to lower your risk for depression during the long winter months ahead.
Bring Mother Nature Inside to Enliven Your Winter Spirit
“When you look deep into nature, life becomes crystal clear. It’s almost like magic.” — Susan Daniels
Lighting is important – it’s one of our basic human requirements, however, there are other elements to use in the interior of your home that help you and your family rise above the winter blues. I’ve gleaned the internet in search of the top combinations of intimate environment and Mother Nature in our homes. Here are a few examples for your information and inspiration.
Meditation Room
If you’re lucky enough to have a spare room, I suggest that you designate it as your meditation room. This example shows a raised rock bed with zen waterfalls and green, lush plants.
The comfort level is through the roof with these laid back lounge chairs of soft brown leather. The neutral color scheme is both relaxing and emits a feeling of serene happiness with the natural light flowing through the room to lift your spirits.
Click on any image to see its source.
Norfolk Pine Tree
The Norfolk Pine Tree is at the top of my list for year-round enjoyment. Sold at home supply stores in the garden department, you’ll find them growing in their own pots. Take one home for the holidays and continue to enjoy it long after the snowflakes are packed away. The aromatic essence of the Norfolk Pine is yours year-round when you bring this tree home to stay.
You may grow your Norfolk Pine at a normal room temperature but they’ll be healthier if you keep them in a space that is about 65° f while you keep them a few degrees cooler at night. However, never let them sit in temperatures below 50 degrees. Keep them in bright and natural light, but never place them in direct sunlight. Trim and turn your Norfolk Pine frequently to maintain its delightful symmetry.
Waterfalls • Tealights • River Rocks
How wonderful it is that something so natural is also so soothing. This terrific little element combines candlelight and a 3-tiered desktop waterfall. It’s easy to dress this antiqued bronze for any seasonal event.
Additionally, you might set it by a green plant or keep it on your bedside meditation table for the daily joy of listening to the flowing, falling water.
Sounds of Nature
Put your feet up and put the headphones one while you feel the stress leaving your body as you listen to the soft rains and gentle winds through a forest. The sounds of a forest is a perfect way to relax and bring Mother Nature into your home and this Forest Ambience CD is no exception.
Another plus to this sound technique is that it drowns out annoying sounds like not-so-distant freeways. Plug this into a portable speaker and set it beside your desktop waterfalls or plants for a layered natural sound effect.
I sincerely hope this information gives you excellent ideas of your own on how to get through those long winter months with a light step and a resilient attitude. I wish you the most stress free holiday season ever. Blessings to you and those you serve.
Other Posts You Will Enjoy:
Bring the Outside In for a Clear and Refreshing Environment
