by Maria Miaoulis

Created on: December 11, 2008   Last Updated: June 28, 2011

After a hard day's work, the one thing we all look forward to is putting head to pillow and drifting off to sleep. However, it's rather hard to relax and unwind when there are piles of clothes all over your bed, computer wires and equipment strewn about the floor, stacks of papers covering every surface, not to mention the furniture you step over or constantly bump into because of the lack of space.

It is actually quite simple to transform this obstacle course into a sanctuary where you can escape the chaos of the world. Here are some tips to help you create a relaxing and serene atmosphere in your bedroom:

1) De-clutter Clutter stimulates your mind. Instead of falling asleep quickly you find yourself thinking about the pile of laundry you have yet to do, the unpaid bills on your dresser, etc. If it's not possible to move whatever doesn't belong in your bedroom to other rooms in your house (i.e. move papers and computer equipment to your office, put dirty clothes in the laundry room, etc.), then set up similar zones in your room to contain your belongings and keep it that way.

2) Create traffic flow Arrange your furniture to maximize the amount of free space you have. Perhaps it's better to put your bed up against the wall in order to have a path to the door. Get rid of pieces you don't use or that don't meet your needs. Also, take advantage of those bare walls with shelves or other wall units to free up floor and table space.

3) Decorate modestly The key to a serene bedroom look is to use mellow colors that will relax your eyes. Choose from pastels for your wall color. For those who prefer bold colors, incorporate funky accessories in bright shades.

4) Eliminate distractions Light and noise is disruptive to sleep. Use low watt bulbs for softer light. Replace your screeching alarm clock with one that uses music or a pleasant buzzer to wake you. Choose to unwind with a book before bed instead of watching TV. Open the windows for a few minutes at night to let in some fresh air or use an air purifier to make the room less stuffy.

5) Always make your bed Not only will this show that you take pride in your room, but you'll look forward to climbing into bed each night if you turn down the covers. Splurge a little for luxurious sheets and pillows to make the experience even better.

6) Keep a pen and pad of paper handy We all lay in bed thinking of things we forgot to do today or have to accomplish tomorrow. Jot these down so you can fall asleep faster and get off to a running start the next day.

As you can see, it doesn't take much effort to transform your bedroom into a soothing environment. Life is stressful enough, and in following these suggestions you will always have a place welcoming you with open arms at the end of a tiring day.

Learn more about this author, Maria Miaoulis.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.