“In quiet spaces, we hear our deepest thoughts.”
Rest is not something that happens by accident. It grows in the right conditions, just like a seed planted in good soil and there’s a lot we can do to create the right conditions. While we often think of rest as something that just “happens” when we’re tired enough, rest can be shaped by the spaces we create and inhabit.
A home is much more than just walls and a roof; it is a living space that can either drain or restore us. The spaces we spend time in – whether at home, in the garden, or even at work – have a profound effect on our emotions, our energy, and our ability to unwind.
This chapter is about practical steps: how to set up simple, intentional spaces that invite rest into your everyday life.
“Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.” — William Morris
This timeless advice by William Morris resonates deeply with me. In creating a space for rest, it reminds us that simplicity and beauty don’t have to be extravagant. Creating a restful space can start with a single act, clearing a surface, positioning a favourite ornament, opening a window for fresh air.
Small Spaces, Big Impact
You don’t need an entire room to create a place of rest. A single chair by a window, a cosy corner of the garden, a quiet spot under a tree, even a calm corner at work – all can become pockets of peace. What matters is intention: choosing to take the time to make that spot a place where you can pause, breathe, and reconnect.
Even a scented candle placed on a table can shift the mood of a space. Our sense of smell connects directly to the part of the brain that influences emotions and memory, so introducing natural aromas through candles, essential oils, or fresh herbs can provide the setting for necessary rest.
Practical Elements for a Restful Space
Textures That Comfort
- Where possible, use natural fabrics like wool, linen, or cotton. These feel grounding and comforting against the skin. Avoid synthetic materials.
- Add a soft throw or cushion as this can change the feeling of a space.
Colours That Soothe
- Choose calming, earthy tones: soft greens, muted blues, gentle neutrals.
- Avoid harsh, high-contrast colours in your rest spaces.
Lighting That Calms
- Use lamps instead of overhead lights.
- Choose bulbs with a warm tone.
- The light of candles or salt lamps can soften the atmosphere in the evening.
Aromas of Rest
- Introduce relaxing scents like lavender, neroli, sweet orange, or vetiver.
- Scenting the air using natural wax melts, candles and air parfums can gently signal that it is time to unwind. Ensure you use only products that are chemical free and are scented with natural essential oils.
Sounds of Stillness
- Play soft background sounds like rainfall, ocean waves, or gentle instrumental music.
- Or prioritise silence if that soothes you more.
- Listen to a relaxing, guided meditation.
Air That Moves
- Open windows daily to let in fresh air.
- Avoid synthetic fragrances in your home and keep dust to a minimum.
Decluttering for Peace
- Keep surfaces as clear as possible.
- Store things away neatly to avoid visual “noise.”
- Surround yourself only with objects you love or truly need.
Marie Kondo’s popular method of “keeping only what brings joy” offers a valuable principle here. A clutter-free space clears not only the room but also the mind.
Adding a Touch of Nature
A simple plant, a vase of fresh flowers, a small bowl of stones from a walk – natural elements bring a calming energy.
Beyond the Home
While much of this advice applies to home spaces, remember, you can create moments of rest anywhere you choose. Try placing a crystal or small plant on your work desk – I have a beautiful piece of amethyst on my desk and from time to time I put my attention onto this, and it helps me to feel me feel calm and focused. You can take your cushions and blankets outside to the garden or the park and soften that garden bench or lie under your favourite tree.
Creating your space is less about location and more about intention and how it makes you feel.
Story: The Woman Who Created Space for Herself
Ella had a busy life – work deadlines, family responsibilities, endless errands. She believed that she didn’t have time for rest. Her home was filled with half-finished projects and cluttered corners.
One day, feeling really overwhelmed, she decided to take ten minutes to clear a single corner of her living room. She moved a chair closer to the window, draped a soft wool blanket over it, placed a scented candle on a small table, and left her favourite book within easy reach.
It wasn’t grand. It wasn’t perfect. But it made her feel better and less overwhelmed.
Each evening, she created a small ritual: she lit the candle, wrapped the blanket around her shoulders, and sat quietly. Some evenings she read and some evenings she simply watched the evening sky change through the window.
Over time, that small corner became her refuge. No matter how chaotic the day, she knew she had a space waiting for her – simple, calm and hers alone. It felt safe, it was a place that held her and she came to rest there.
Ella learned that creating space for rest didn’t require a big house, lots of money, or a complete lifestyle change. It required only a little corner, a little intention and the willingness to claim stillness for herself.