by Andrew Hockenbroch

Created on: December 11, 2008   Last Updated: December 15, 2008

The creation of a bedroom sanctuary is a complex subject, but here are 7 tips to get you started.

1) Set boundaries. If you have young children or pets in your house it is vital to have at least one safe zone where you can be free of screaming children and hungry pets when you need a break. Where better than your room? It is okay to lock your door.

2) No television. Many people enjoy coming home from a hard day of work and relaxing in front of the television. Unfortunately though it may be pleasant enough television is still a stressor. You may see a tragic moment in a television show, get frustrated with commercials when you really want to see your show, or even catch a glimpse of the news, but eventually the television is going to hinder relaxation. Your best bet is to leave television for the living room.

3) No telephones. One of the biggest causes of stress today is cell phones. Though they may seem to make life simple they actually do just the opposite. The problem with being able to be reached any time and anywhere is that you can be reached any time and any where. There are not many things more stressful than sitting in a quiet room and suddenly being startled by a loud ring followed by a conversation with or message from someone you really do not want to talk to.

4) Decorate. Wal-Mart sells wonderful plastic plants. They last for years and you do not have to worry about keeping them watered. A small water fountain set on a dresser can provide a pleasant stream like noise. Otherwise consider your individual tastes and decorate accordingly except avoid decorations that imply activity such as swords mounted on the wall.

5) But do not over do it. A lot of decorations, even if they are all of your favorite relaxing things, will create a very busy room. A busy room creates a busy mind and there goes any chance of relaxation. A good rule of thumb is one decoration per wall maximum unless your bedroom is exceptionally large.

6) Light up. Lighting is also important. In general in the morning you want as much light as possible to enter the room through the windows without compromising privacy. At night you usually do not want a large amount of light. All together your best bet is light colored drapes on the windows and a small lamp beside the bed, one on each side if possible.

7) Limit activities. If you share the room, agree with your partner to limit the activities in the bedroom to its primary functions. This is called state based learning and helps the mind relax while in the bedroom.

These tips only scratch the surface of the variety of things that can be done to make a bedroom into a sanctuary. They should provide a firm foundation to build on and start you in the right direction.

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