21 bhgrecollection.com | 20 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® Volume 14 LIFE & LEISURE CONNECTION TO THE OUTDOORS Spending time outdoors is beneficial to our health, but merely looking at nature can also contribute to mental well-being. As you design your home for healthy living, think about ways to connect to what’s outside. For example, floorplans with thoughtfully placed doors (especially sliding doors) and windows allow homeowners to immerse themselves in the beauty of the natural world while in their homes. Sunrooms and patios seamlessly flowing from a home’s interior spaces are also great design features for connecting with the outdoors HOME FURNISHINGS The furnishings we keep in our homes can contribute to good or poor health. Think about the chair in your home office. Is it conducive to optimal health even after sitting in it for eight hours a day? If you want to enjoy good health, consider that ergonomic furniture can significantly impact your overall well-being. What about your mattress? Good sleep is essential to great health, so make sure your healthy home design plan includes making the best bed possible. Does the art in your home impact your health? The answer is a resounding “Yes!” Looking at art can make us feel good; colors, textures, and design have the potential to positively stimulate the senses and make us happier. Use these tips to bring healthy living to every room in your house: • Design spaces that are free from distractions. • Engage the senses with beautiful scents, textures, colors, and sounds. • Minimize harsh noises and maximize calming ones. • Design around people instead of things. • Create kitchens that encourage home cooking. • Make spaces to dine outside. • Set aside dedicated exercise areas (not in your bedroom). • Choose window coverings that work with your circadian rhythm. • Plant an outdoor food garden.
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