Home Improvements for Women Over 50 that Will Boost Your Mood

Home is where the heart is, and we all know that desire to get back to it after a long time away. Our homes are our safe space, a place to unwind after a hard day’s work and escape from life. There is nothing better than the time at home to watch TV, cook your favorite meals and spend time with family. The COVID-19 pandemic turned our homes into offices, classrooms, and gyms. Home has taken on an entirely different meaning.

A survey recently found that 90% of homeowners and 78% of renters have taken on a home project since the pandemic began. Popular projects have included interior painting and updating bedroom decor. Of those who made home upgrades, 73% said these projects positively impacted their mental health. And you can take advantage of these home improvement benefits as well, even if you’re a DIY novice.

Light Therapy at home

Many people notice a drop in their mood and sense of well-being over the dark, cold days of winter. Light therapy is a way to treat the seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and certain other conditions by exposure to artificial light. SAD is a type of depression that occurs at a certain time each year, usually in the fall or winter.

During light therapy, you sit or work near a device called a light therapy box. The box gives off bright light that mimics natural outdoor light. Light therapy is believed to affect brain chemicals linked to mood and sleep, easing SAD symptoms. You can get your own light therapy box for your home and boost your mood at any time!

Whole-Home Aromatherapy

The use of essential oils for scent therapy, or aromatherapy, is common practice. You likely have a lot of strong memories tied to scents, whether it’s the fragrance of your grandmother’s perfume or the smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house during Christmas. You can recreate these memories by using similar scents in times of stress, either with a whole-home essential oil diffuser.

Some of the most well-known scents for effective aromatherapy include lavender for relaxation, peppermint for focus, lemon to boost your mood, eucalyptus for energizing, and patchouli to combat depression.

Bring the outside, inside!

Spending time in nature can spur a variety of mental health benefits. Nature has been proven to reduce stress levels, make you happier, reduce fatigue and help you be more creative. But depending on your living situation and lifestyle, going for a hike every day may not be possible. To help ensure you can take advantage of all these benefits, you’ll need to bring the outdoors in.

Houseplants such as ferns, succulents, ivy, and spider plants are not only beautiful but easy to take care of too. They help reduce toxins throughout your home and provide a sense of accomplishment the longer you keep them alive and thriving. To make sure you reap the full benefits of houseplants, add a few to each room of your home, especially in areas prone to high stress, such as your home office.

Torn over a new coat, of paint

A straightforward way to completely overhaul how a room looks is by painting the walls. Color can significantly impact your mood. Colors such as blue, green, lavender, and tan evoke a sense of calm in oneself. Any color that speaks to you can create a more relaxing atmosphere in your home. Decor experts recommend staying away from red or any type of neon paint if you’re looking to decrease your anxiety levels, as they can make a room feel too stimulating.

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