Ideally, we all want our homes to be a place of comfort and rest, where we can unwind at the end of the day. Often, that is not the case. The kids, the laundry piles, and the home improvement checklists keep on growing, and our blocks of available time keep shrinking.
There are plenty of ways to make our homes feel more restful. You’ll find some below, including from MCL friends and advertisers. But the bottom line? Our ultimate home is found in Jesus Christ. If we center our households on Him, the rest will fall into place – even if we never see the bottom of the laundry basket.
Balance comfort and appearance
Sure, we all want our homes to look amazing. But if that contemporary chic recliner doesn’t actually feel good when you recline in it, how much “rest” will it really bring you? On the other hand, if your recliner looks like old pea soup, you might feel stressed just looking at it, regardless of its physical comfort. Know yourself and what matters to you (and make sure you have at least one comfortable place to sit in your house).
Be selective in your decor
To find respite in your home, surround yourself with things that bring you joy, whether it be beautiful art, fresh flowers, or time-worn vintage pieces. In my own home, I have all of the above, with a bit of mid-century modern thrown in. I prefer a mostly white background – and I’m selective about the items I do display – so that each antique, bouquet of roses, or piece of art pops!
My refuge is my sunroom, where I pray, read, and work on small projects. Yours could be a home office, bedroom, or patio. Whatever the case may be, your home – especially the room where you relax most often – should be a reflection of you. – Debby Eubanks, Soft European Traditions; located at Metropolitan Antiques & Art, Jackson
Carve out a sanctuary
Create a space in your home that’s a true sanctuary — a quiet room free of distractions. Leave your phone outside, play worship music, and spend time in the Word. This designated haven helps you cut through the noise of life and find real rest, refuge, and peace in God’s presence. – Jarred Couch, Highland Realty, Clinton
Declutter as you go
If your dining room table is too full of backpacks, books, and junk mail to see any actual dining – or if general clutter in your home is stressing you out – this tip is for you. Each time you pass by a cluttered area or move from one room to the next, grab one item and put it back where it belongs.
This can apply to messy vehicles, too! Grab that sweater out of the backseat before you go in the house – and then instead of throwing said sweater wherever, hang it up or fold it and put it away. By decluttering as you go, you’ll be surprised how quickly your space clears up.
Don’t neglect your outdoor space
Madison Garden Center offers a variety of products to enhance outdoor living, including vegetables, flowers, shrubs, trees, birding and butterfly items, Polywood furniture, cushions, pottery, statuary, and gift items. This family business emphasizes customer service and shopping locally. Come see us and spend more time outdoors – it’s good for the soul. 811 Madison Ave., Madison | 601-856-5554