5 Ways to Make Your Home or Office More Recovery-Friendly

In recovery, change is normal. Change happens in the mind, body, relationships and even hobbies. You might even notice your attitudes, beliefs and everyday activities are changing. This is all normal in recovery. But what about your physical space?

You might not have thought about it before, but the places we live and work can have a lot to do with our overall mood, behavior and happiness, all of which contribute to a healthy recovery.

Tips to Make Your Space Inspiring

When you’re inspired by your physical space, your recovery will follow-suit, meaning you’ll be healthier, more fulfilled, and will feel more meaning and purpose in your life and work.

Sounds great, right?

Start by taking an inventory of the places you spend your time. Maybe this is your office, a desk at school, your car or your home. While these tips might not apply to each space you have, try to make small changes where you can to make your space as inspiring as your recovery.

A few simple changes to your space can go a long way. Try these tips:

• Tip #1  Natural light.
  Numerous studies have confirmed it – natural light helps people relieve stress, makes them more creative, and can even leave people feeling inspired and energized. So, if you’ve realized that your bedroom, office or desk area is too dimly-lit, try moving towards a window if possible. And if you can’t add more natural light to your space, just make it a priority to get outside every single day. The warmth from the sun will leave you feeling fresh, inspired and ready to keep moving forward in recovery.
• Tip #2  Green, green and more green.
  Plants give our homes and offices life – literally. Studies have also shown they can purify and improve air quality, while giving a natural, energetic vibe to any space. Start by adding a plant or two to give your space a little extra green. Plants will give you something to look at, something to care for, which can add responsibility that will teach you important skills in consistency and accountability. Plus, they’ll be a calming presence in your space and the perfect companion for a few minutes of mindfulness or meditation.
• Tip #3  Meditative quiet space.
  Speaking of meditation, carve out a designated space for it in your home. You can do it at work, too, depending on your situation. Add a yoga mat, a comfy cushion, or a chair that you love. Add a speaker for calming music, a plant, and essential oils. Put the space by a window for a little added serenity. Having a serene space waiting for you at home can serve as a reminder to take a few minutes to get quiet, centered and focused. It will be the place you can consult after a tough day at work or a hard conversation, and can teach you valuable coping skills that are healthy and more sustainable than using.
• Tip #4  Motivating mantras.
  Recovery is filled with them! So why not place your favorite quote or mantra on the wall? Print out your favorite words of wisdom, have them painted on a canvas, put them up in your living space and let it serve as an important reminder each day. Mantras are anchors for recovery in the earliest days, so keeping them around you at home and work can keep you focused even when you’re not actively participating in a recovery activity.
• Tip #5 Keep it clean.
  Clutter can distract the brain – literally. So make sure to keep your space neat and tidy. There’s reason behind why you were told to make your bed or keep your room clean in treatment – it keeps your brain alert, active and focused on what’s important, not all the clutter. Plus, if you start your day by making your bed and tidying up, you’ve already accomplished something before you’ve even started your day. This puts you on the path ready to work your hardest and do your best in recovery and throughout all other parts of life.

Make it Intentional

Revamping your space at home or work doesn’t have to be complicated, it just has to be intentional.  As you’ve committed to making healthy changes in recovery, look around your home and think about what changes you can make to your space.

Chances are you’ll be more energized, inspired and happy – just like you should be in recovery.