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There is something so important, almost vital to our survival (especially in today’s world) about creating a personal space for quiet time. I’m speaking of a long forgotten pastime in our culture of just relaxing and and tapping into the softer side of ourselves—that place where we can hear our own breath and cultivate being calm. The space in the above photo is my own personal quiet room that I designed specifically for that purpose. Every morning as I roll out of bed, I make my way here (after brushing my teeth of course), I sit on the daybed (cats cuddled up on my lap), blanket wrapped around me, candles lit and I listen to my breath. I might grab my journal and start writing whatever comes to mind, no judgment, just letting it flow. This could last anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour, depending on what I have scheduled that day.

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I can tell you this. Ever since I made this part of my daily routine, I have been a happier, healthier person in all areas of my life. I notice that my mood is better and my energy level is higher. My relationships have also improved. It’s really so easy to create a personal space. If you can devote a room to yourself great. However, even a corner in a room with a pillow and a candle would suffice. Choose items for the space that you love! For example, I’m currently in love with the wall color shown here, Divine Steamer, (low voc of course) by Divine Paints. It is such a soothing and relaxing hue. I melt into it. The white statue of Kwan Yin (the Chinese Goddess of compassion) is handmade out of alabaster and I purchased it at Antiques and Oddities. The peaceful expression on her face greets me every time I walk into the room and puts a smile on my face. The item above it hung on the wall is a 19th century Japanese Kimono which I bought at Winston’s Antique Store. The pairing of the female Kimono and Kwan Yin were done with intention and represent a nuturing female quality that I adore. All things here are perfectly reflected of me and support who I am as a person. Do you already have a personal space or want one? Share your thoughts here.

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Ok, I admit it–I am madly in love. You might think it’s with another human, but I’ll be the first to admit that my beloved is my new home. Yes, it’s true! We’ve been together now for about 18 glorious weeks of making design love in every room (including the backyard!)….Ok truth be told, like every relationship, we had a few minor hiccups along the way, but they smoothed themselves out and my dream home was born. That’s my living room space in the above photo, a lounge haven. It is located in the Helpful People area of the Bagua map (a feng shui tool used to promote positive energy in a space) but more on Feng Shui later so stay tuned.

And can I be eco-chic here? Totally. The curtains are eco- silk, made with eco-safe dyes, no formaldehyde by Anna Sova, the walls are painted in Yolo Clay 06 (no vocs please…) and the fireplace in Ben Moore’s new Aura paint color Wenge. I also burn eco-friendly java logs which last for up to 3 hours and are made of compressed coffee grinds.

Relaxing is awesome. I highly recommend it. If we create a home environment that invites us to do just that, we are happier and healthier people. Kind of simple but true. Design is a passion of mine. For more photos of my home, and other design work, check out the gallery page. Do you love your home as much as I do? I would love to hear your stories on how your space inspires you. Leave a comment.