5 Ways to Brighten Your Home This Winter

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With temperatures plummeting, it can be easy for your mood to plummet too. According to American Family Physician, seasonal affective disorder (or seasonal depression) affects about 25% of people every winter.

These dreary, dark days definitely have me craving long walks in the sunshine with balmy air touching my skin and palm trees up above. Until then, we’ll just have to make the most of these puffy coat, red nose, slippery sidewalk days. There are lots of ways you can bring a little bit of summer into your home, even in the dead of winter.

5 ways to beat the winter blues in your home:

1. Bright Décor

It’s hard to stay down with a room full of bright yellow, sunset orange or rainforest green. Try painting a wall in a bold color, or get an accent chair in a colorful pattern. Some simpler ideas include adding throw pillows or a blanket. One of my favorite ways to add color to a room is with artwork. You could also re-paint a tired, old piece of furniture in a fun color.

Photo: https://www.pexels.com/photo/turned-on-flat-screen-led-television-1046639/

2. Bright Lights

Don't underestimate the power of adding a lamp or string lights to a room. On top of this, go ahead and change out any burnt-out light bulbs. The lack of light in winter is the biggest culprit of seasonal affective disorder. Making sure that every room in your home is well-lit will help beat those winter blues.

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3. Natural Light

Better yet, take advantage of the little bit of natural light that is left, even when you’re inside. Pull back the curtains and enjoy the cooler sunlight that escapes through the clouds. As a bonus, you’ll save some money on your electric bill.

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4. Indoor Plants

Flowers and greenery are two things we miss in the winter. Why wait for the April showers? Bring the outdoors in with some indoor plants. Plants are known to improve air quality and provide many health benefits. Succulents and cacti are popular choices right now.

Photo: https://pixabay.com/en/succulents-bowl-planter-1993396/

5. Soft Textures

Another way to get through the winter is to fill your home with lots of soft textures. Blankets, pillows and area rugs add warmth to cold rooms.

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While we wait for spring to make its much-anticipated arrival, there are lots of things you can do to bring a little extra warmth to your home during these harsh winter months.

Until then, grab some hot tea, take a seat by the fire and enjoy the snowy landscape while it lasts.

Michaela Satterfield

James Décor Writer

Sources:

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2000/0301/p1531.html