by Susie Mowers

Created on: December 10, 2008   Last Updated: December 15, 2008

A SANDMAN'S SANCTUARY
Everybody agrees: Your bedroom is where you want to relax and be calm. But creating your own refuge where you can doze and dream your workday worries away is much easier said than done. Here, some tips to setting up a serene sanctuary that are guaranteed to lead to some serious shuteye:

Rediscover The Earth's Worth
The word "natural" has long been synonymous with "peaceful", and colors and tones that naturally exist in the earth's core are guaranteed to soothe the senses. Look to the earth, sea and sky for inspiration and indulge in the calming effects of the colors you find. Dull browns and deep, forest greens can mimic a cabin-like atmosphere and encourage quiet restful sleep, while sea and sky blues revive the senses and linger with a cool, pacific effect. When it comes to natural, there's a world of opportunity, and inspiration for a harmonious haven may be no further than your own backyard.

Keep It Simple
Sure, that flat-screen HD plasma might look great above your wardrobe, but really has no place in the bedroom. Your bedroom should be for one thing only: Sleeping. The more activities you associate with your bedroom, the less likely a solid sleep will be. Do away with any furniture counter-conducive to a good night's sleep: anything that may remind you of the real-time troubles and stress-inducing responsibilities (like desks, radios and perhaps even mirrors). If you work from home, be sure to keep your office separate from your slumber room (or else risk the stresses of deadlines and office drams seeping into your nightly dreams). Remember that the best shuteye occurs when you completely shut off, so eliminating extra activities will let you focus on getting the beauty rest you and your body deserve.

Keep It Clean
It may seem too obvious, but keeping your quarters clean can really mark the difference between rest and restlessness. Tuck away clutter, and tidy up your space. Take that extra 5 minutes a day and commit yourself to keeping your room pure and fresh, focusing especially on your bed itself. Prop the pillows, fluff the sheets; be clean, clear your space, and clarity will follow.

Earthly hues, basic essential furniture and minimal clutter are the key to a successful, stress-free slumber. So be neat, be nominal, be natural, and relinquish the comfort of creating a sanctuary suitable for any sandman. You deserve it.

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