by Jessica Steele

Created on: December 08, 2008   Last Updated: January 18, 2011

Someone once told me that the rooms in your house project your living priorities. That if every room in your house is clean but your bedroom, it reflects that you come last in your own life. As the mother of a special needs child, my bedroom is my sanctuary. It is the only place I can go for complete quiet and relaxation. I have found that aside from keeping my room tidy and neat, a couple of little details go a long way in creating the safe haven that is my bedroom.

The first, and most important detail, is that my son does not get to use my room in the same manner he uses the rest of the house. My room and the things in it are off limits to him without permission. That rule makes it possible. A small bookshelf is great for holding just the books that I am currently reading, if it is too large, it will pile up with extra books and clutter. As a writer, I also keep a journal and box of very "special" pens on this shelf. I like to keep a couple of low maintenance plants on the dresser top. Light a candle or two, and just watch the coziness factor climb a couple of degrees. A nice throw blanket slung over the back of a comfy chair is a most inviting seat as well as a great place to seat a childhood stuffed animal. I love the way it feels the first night I climb into my freshly changed bedding.

I have found that the more my bedroom reflects myself, the more peace I feel with my sleeping quarters, the more relaxing and serene. Your relationship with your bedroom should be an intimate one. Your bedroom should know your secrets and should be a reflection of who you are. If a stranger entered your bedroom, would they know your favorite colors, smells, and hobbies? Are you the "curl up in an overtuffed chair with a good book" or the " crawl under your favorite down comforter and watch a movie" type. Do you do Yoga, or Pilates? Can you easily and discreetly store an exercise mat? Is there a source for relaxing music to listen to while you stretch in the calm glow of your candles? Do you look forward to going to your bedroom? If not, why not? The key to a relaxing and restful room is to explore who you are, learn what comforts you, and bring it to that room.

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