How to Be Happier at Home: 8 Simple Ideas

1. Green or Yellow Walls

Among all the colors of the rainbow, the Free University of Amsterdam chose two: yellow and green. Not without reason: these two tones evoke the greatest sense of happiness. The Dutch went further and boldly recommended everyone to paint every wall of their apartment in a shade of yellow-green palette. Of course, the choice is yours, but we suggest tempering your enthusiasm and settling on one shade for all walls (at least in one room).

2. Fresh Flowers

Believe us, we also feel terrible about throwing away wilted flowers. But still, if you believe science, artificial bouquets are a poor investment for your happiness. Researchers at Rutgers University conducted a study and found that fresh flowers bring a sense of life satisfaction and, as a result, joy. So go ahead—now is the time to buy those peony-like roses at the corner flower shop.

3. Family Photos

If your nightstand is a still life of a desktop book and a glass of water, you should change it immediately. Researchers at the University of Portsmouth concluded that looking at old photographs evokes positive emotions and a sense of calm. Therefore, bring out your cutest family photos and enjoy them without hesitation.

4. Vanilla-Scented Candles

Why do you light a vanilla-scented candle after a stressful workday? It's simple: it’s a super relaxing scent. This is confirmed by research from the Center for Chemical Senses, which proves that vanilla is an incredibly effective method to fight stress. Apparently, this is also true for you: restock your strategic candle supply and don't fear winter chills.

5. Furry Friends

A dog is a man's best friend, remember? The reason for such close relationships between humans and four-legged friends is simple. Research published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology states that animals are, in fact, perfect therapists: they support and help their owners during difficult stressful situations. And, of course, they improve life. Take care of a cozy spot for your pet: for dogs, an ideal place would be a corner room or where they like to sit the most. Cats love "branches": tall shelves or even wardrobes—place a cozy basket there and your favorite feline will be very grateful.

6. Floral Scents

The next time you're choosing a new perfume or air freshener, pay close attention to, for example, the scent of a rose bud. The reason is that olfactory receptors in the nose are connected to the part of the brain responsible for emotions. Scientists from the Association for Psychological Science found that floral scents have a profoundly positive effect on your sense of happiness.

7. Make Your Bed

It's no wonder that we were all taught as children to make our beds carefully. But as we age, we're more likely to believe that the day will go well if you get up on “the right” foot. Meanwhile, according to a survey by Hunch.com, 71% of people who make their beds feel happy, compared to 62% of those with messy beds. We believe that the extra two minutes spent tidying your quilt are worth a happy day.

8. Less Stuff

Scientists from the Canadian Center for Daily Life and Family conducted a study to see if there is a link between high stress hormone levels in women and homes with an excessive number of interior items. It turns out that the more things in your apartment, the more stress you experience. This is because an excess of items makes the interior cluttered and subconsciously associated with a mess. To live in harmony with yourself, bet on minimalism.

*Source: House Beautiful