One thing I do every day to feel happier is to incorporate more senses into my daily activities.
For years I’ve believed that our senses shape how we experience our homes. They aren’t a cure-all, but paying attention to sight, touch, smell, sound, and even taste makes everyday life more enjoyable. Our senses help us feel safe, anchor memories, process information, and notice the small, positive details that make a place feel like home.
I’ve always loved visiting Anthropologie. What draws me in is the ambience—the way the store encourages me to slow down, linger, and notice the details. It’s a reminder that our homes can invite the same response: to arrive and instantly feel a little happier just by being there.
Bringing more of our senses into daily life can increase the joy we find in our surroundings.
When we intentionally engage the senses, our homes become more comforting, inspiring, and memorable. Here are five practical, sensory-focused ideas you can try to make your space feel better every day.
1. Have fun with interesting textures.
Introduce a mix of fabrics and finishes—soft throws, woven baskets, textured pillows, or a tasseled detail. Texture invites touch and adds visual depth, making spaces feel warm and layered.
2. Delight in pleasing colors and patterns.
Choose colors and patterns that reflect your mood. Softer tones and subtle patterns calm, while bold hues and lively prints energize a room. Thoughtful color choices can influence how you feel the moment you walk in.
3. Surround yourself with a mood—soothing or energizing.
Music is an easy way to shape the atmosphere. A small speaker or a smart display on the counter can provide a soundtrack while you cook, clean, or relax. Curate playlists that suit different tasks or moods to make routine moments more enjoyable.
4. Use natural, non-toxic scents.
Scent strongly affects mood and memory. Opt for organic or homemade sprays, essential oil diffusers, or simmering citrus and herbs instead of chemically scented products. Gentle, natural aromas can make daily activities feel fresher and more pleasant.
5. Be mindful of the words you surround yourself with.
Decor is more than visuals—words and phrases in your home can inspire and uplift. Choose meaningful artwork, framed quotes, or a simple sign with a phrase that reflects your values and intentions.
Find more ideas and encouragement for creating a happier, healthier home in my new book, Dwelling!
Order my new book, Dwelling!
To learn more about the natural products we use to scent and clean our home, explore simple changes that make cleaning easier and healthier.
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