Decorating & Design
This Is How H&H Editors Are Practicing Self-Care At Home
With most of us working from home, self-care is more important than ever. Whether it’s lighting your favorite candle, trying your hand at meditation or carving out a quiet sanctuary away from your family, creating a ritual for relaxation is the key to survival in these uncertain times. We asked our editors how they are turning their space into a sanctuary, so scroll down and get inspired!
Clear The Clutter
“In the winter months, my bedroom becomes a gathering place for old shopping bags, unworn clothing and gadgets. But as soon as the first signs of spring peek through, I like to purge and reorganize. This is my idea of self-care because I get a fresh start with the new season, and my bedroom becomes a sanctuary of sorts, similar to this clutter-free dream designed by Sacha and Melissa Leclair.” — Bianca Zanotti, Assistant Design Editor
Find A Moment For Yourself
“With two kids and a husband in a relatively small space, it’s hard to claim a spot of my own. I’m very fortunate to have my younger sister’s stylish apartment downstairs. I’ve taken to doing most of my work in her kitchen.” — Kai Ethier, Senior Marketing Editor
Set Up A Meditation Corner
“A few months ago, I attended my first guided meditation — throw blanket, bolster and sound bath included. Ever since, I’ve dedicated a cozy spot in my home to reaching this state of zen. Until further notice, you can find me propped up on Halfmoon’s supportive yet stylish meditation cushion and zabuton and spritzing my favorite lavender aroma in just about every inch of my relaxation station.” — Harleen Sidhu, Assistant Editor
Embrace The View
“My home is a lovely, cozy small space that I share with my partner, Jonny. We are both working from home at the moment, so creating some breathing room was essential! I placed my desk in front of a window where I can stare out at the treetops and enjoy the morning sun streaming in while I sip tea, answer emails and gear-up for the day. It was mild enough to open the window the other day and the breeze was a spirit-raising reminder that warm spring days are just around the corner.” — Kimberley Brown, Style Director
Enjoy The Little Things
“I’m pulling out anything that I may have been saving for a special occasion or rainy day, and using it now, like lighting favorite scented candles and using pretty tea towels I didn’t want to ruin previously. If you have good dishes and guest hand towels, now is the time to get them out and treat yourself!” — Jennifer Koper, Senior Design Editor
Flex Your Green Thumb
“When the walls are closing in, I give my large collection of plants some extra TLC. I am propagating cuttings and have put some big tropicals into the shower to clean off the leaves. When new leaves sprout, it’s a little symbol of hope, and I feel more connected to nature.” — Wendy Jacob, Features Editor
Make Time For Family Activities
“At night, my family of five listens to different genres of music each night — so far we’ve done disco, country and jazz. We play boardgames and I’ve been lighting a few candles, but that’s pretty normal for me.” — Stacy Begg, Senior Interiors Director
Create A DIY Desk
“Living alone in a petite one-bedroom apartment means creating zones for work and play is my form of self-care. As tempting as it is to answer emails from bed all day, I’ve made a DIY home office with my coffee table that converts into a desk. Leigh Gravenor’s cozy nook with built-in shelves (above) is the ultimate goal, but for now, my little work space is just what I need.” — Victoria Christie, Digital Editor
Incorporate Fresh Blooms (If You Can!)
“Living in a smaller space can sometimes make things tricky when trying to create a sanctuary, but something that has always been essential for me is adding plants and flowers. Combined with tons of natural light, this is the ultimate mood-booster.” — Jenna Wilhelmsen, Contributor
…Or Embrace Florals In Different Ways
“During this crazy time of being stuck in my tiny apartment, I’m loving florals in all forms. I have a vintage white desk and matching chair with a flowery cushion and throw pillow, and I keep a vase of fresh roses in my bedroom. Not only are throwback florals trending right now, but they really brighten the mood in my space!” — Jacklyn Gilmor, Digital Intern