Fostering work-life balance when working from home

As the dynamics relating to how home and work converge, many people may be asking how to separate the two. In essence, how to avoid having one’s home feel like “the office” while still creating an environment that feels like home. For many, there needs to be a life, work balance.

Here are some recommendations for creating an ideal blend of work and relaxation under the same roof.

1 Create a separate area for work. Ideally this should be a separate room, but if you can’t, creating a work “zone” that is separate and distinct will help.

2Take frequent breaks during the day. Once in the morning, around lunch and before the end of the day is ideal.

3Spend some time outdoors. Taking time for a breath of fresh air will help instill a sense of calm.

4Infuse soothing colors to create a sense of calm. Pure white, neutrals and soothing blues can help.

5Incorporate greenery. Trees and plants can go a long way in helping a space feel modern, fresh and calm.

6Try to incorporate nature and natural elements.

7When possible utilize natural sunlight or infuse as much light as possible into a space. Sunlight can help to calm the mind.

8Consider incorporating scent or fragrance. A calming effect can come from “soothing the senses.”

9Experiment with mirrors. Mirrors help to reflect light and can act like windows in a space.

10Use wood and wood-like elements. This can help to “ground” a space and help to make it feel cozy.