Home offices have long been a space of collaboration, but how this collaboration takes place has shifted in the face of the global pandemic, Covid-19. Gone are jokes and coffee in the break room, and in are muted laughter, and kids and cats making appearances on video conference calls. As office spaces have moved into homes across the globe, so has added stress. Working from home part-time or full-time has become the “new norm” whether we like it or not. Thus, the makeshift home offices aren’t cutting it anymore. It’s time to transform your home office into a place of tranquility.

Here are six ways to create serenity in your home office space.

1. Nature

There’s nothing like immersing yourself in nature. Whether it’s hiking, or surfing, experiencing the sensations of nature has a transformative power that immediately calms the body and mind. Adding plants to your office space is one way that you can introduce nature’s calming powers. You can add a touch of green to your office space with English ivy, or aloe. If you’re looking for something more fragrant, Arabian jasmine or lavender will add soothing scents. Creating nature in your home office isn’t limited to bringing plants into the office; you can also include art pieces that convey nature’s serenity. Check out these calming prints that capture the beauty of the natural world:
 

Nature is majestic and so is this art piece. An artwork like this allows for a meditative break as you lose yourself in the wonder of this fiery sunrise.

 

 

2. Personalize your space

Just like your traditional office, you should add photos of your loved ones, favorite sport team memorabilia, or inspirational quotes to your home office space.These items motivate us to focus and motivate us when needed. A focal point wall is perfect for a large piece of art that can set the mood and make a statement.

 

3. Inspiration from travel

The excitement of discovering a new place is a feeling that releases wonder in the soul. You can capture this wonder in your space by adding photos from your travel experiences. A professional artwork from the place you visited can make a beautiful gift to yourself that you can enjoy everyday for years to come.

 

4. Meditation

Create some space and time for meditation in your home office. This can be a small corner of your room where you place a yoga mat or a cushion and make a point to take five minutes a day where you focus on your breath, or use a guided script from an app like Headspace. Meditation can also be found in artwork. Check out the photo below, "Strie Seas".

Prints like this with an ethereal flow are great to give you a couple of minutes to absorb its energy and catch your breath. 

 

5. Calm Colors

Painting your home office fire engine red may not be the best way to achieve a tranquil space, nor will decorating it with too many bright colors. Instead, opt for neutral tones. Beach art is a great way to bring these tones into your office space. Photos like “Silky Seas” pictured below bring the tranquility of watching the ocean tide washing over the rocks,  set with soft tones sure to compliment your office space. 

 

6. Keep it happy

Yes, neutral tones are important for creating a calm space, but it’s important to also decorate it in a manner that will make you smile. Be sure to have fun and add some pieces that you know will brighten your day. This could a framed inspirational quote or a photo that conveys joy. Check out “Happy Otter” below and try not to smile. 

 

Happy decorating!