The Importance of Engaging All Our Senses At Home

When you walk into your home, how does it make you feel? What do you first notice when you walk into someone else’s home? Whether we notice it or not, we are engaging all our senses at home or when we walk into any given space.

The Importance of Engaging All Our Senses At Home

Naturally we have an immediate reaction to what we see, and what we smell (or don’t smell) is not too far behind. And since smell is directly tied to taste, even that affects how we feel in a home.

The temperature affects our sense of touch/feeling & the sounds influence the whole vibe (think laughing children vs screeching/screaming children).

All of our senses impact how home makes us feel and our overall comfort level in that space.

That said, we are going to address some (mostly free) things you can do to make sure home is always the place you want to be AND is inviting to family, friends, & neighbors too!

Our homes are more than just physical spaces; they are where we live, relax, and create lasting memories. Engaging all our senses in a home environment can significantly enhance our overall well-being and quality of life. From sight and sound to touch, smell, and taste, each sense plays a crucial role in shaping our experiences within our homes.

How can we engaging all 5 senses in our homes?

Sight

• Visual appeal is essential for creating a welcoming and comfortable home environment.
• Use of natural light, vibrant colors, and visually pleasing decor can positively impact mood and energy levels. When little natural light is available, it’s important to supplement with layers of light from overhead general lighting with dimmers, to lamps for ambient lighting & spotlights.
• Incorporating elements of nature, such as indoor plants, can provide a sense of tranquility and connection to the outdoors. If caring for indoor plants isn’t your thing, try natural dried options. Or incorporate plant life in your decor through color & pattern – a vibrant pillow with a plant or flower motif or using colors like browns, greens, blues and even reds & oranges in doses.

Sound

• Sound can greatly influence our emotions and stress levels.
• Incorporating soothing sounds, such as soft music or nature sounds, can contribute to a calming atmosphere.
• Creating a peaceful home environment with minimal noise pollution can promote relaxation and focus. Rugs can help to damper sounds in spaces with a lot of hard surfaces.

Touch

• The sense of touch is closely linked to comfort and emotional well-being.
• Quality, comfortable furnishings and textiles in soft natural fabrics can provide a sense of physical relaxation and security.
• Incorporating varied textures, such as soft rugs, smooth surfaces, and cozy blankets, can enrich the tactile experience within the home.

Smell

• A pleasant, inviting aroma can evoke positive emotions and memories. Close your eyes and imagine the smell of cookies, pie, or bread baking in the oven. What feeling do you get? I know it makes me feel all warm & fuzzy inside. Everyday when my son comes home, if he smells me baking or cooking something he is immediately so full of joy!
• Introducing natural scents through fresh flowers, scented candles, essential oils, or incense/sage can create a welcoming and calming atmosphere.
• Proper ventilation and cleanliness are essential for maintaining a fresh and healthy indoor environment. Open the windows whenever you can to let in some fresh air, especially great if you can get a cross breeze going throughout. If you live in a big city like I do, be sure to check the air quality first as throwing open those windows could do more harm than good.

Taste

• While taste may not be directly associated with the physical home environment, it is linked to the experience of sharing meals and creating connections within the home. And since taste is directly tied to smell, it too can impact how home makes you feel.
• A well-equipped kitchen and inviting dining area can foster a sense of togetherness and enjoyment of food, leading to stronger social bonds.

Creating a Multi-Sensory Home Environment

To engage all our senses in a home, consider the following approaches:

1. Design and Layout: Thoughtful arrangement of furniture, lighting, and decor to create visually appealing and functional spaces.
2. Incorporating Nature: Bringing elements of nature indoors through plants, natural materials, and views of the outdoors.
3. Aural Ambiance: Utilizing soundscapes, music, and acoustic design to create a peaceful and soothing auditory environment.
4. Tactile Elements: Choosing comfortable furnishings, incorporating varied textures, and prioritizing ergonomic design for physical comfort.
5. Aromatherapy and Cleanliness: Utilizing natural scents and maintaining clean, well-ventilated spaces to enhance olfactory experiences.
6. Culinary Experiences: Designing inviting kitchen and dining spaces to promote enjoyable meal preparation and communal dining experiences.

Pay special attention to the entrance(s)

We barely use our front door when we come home but we try to use it every day just so we are aware of how it feels walking into & out of our home. We use our garage entrance which has a totally different vibe because it opens directly into the great room.

Either way there are things to always keep in mind about the entrance(s) to our homes:

1. keep them clean & uncluttered – on the inside and the outside. Make sure the porch is clear of debris like leaves & dirt. Try not to store anything right near the entryway.
2. furnish them – speaking of storage, use smart storage only as needed. Try a bench or ottoman tucked under a console table in the entryway. If you have a coat closet, use it instead of exposed hooks. On the porch, try an outdoor settee or bistro set if you have the space. If not, a few potted plants works just as well.
3. decorate simply – feel free to hang outdoor friendly art outside your front entrance. It can be an unexpected welcome to visitors. Just don’t go overboard, less is more. I’ve had people stay outside even after I answer to read the piece hung at our front door.
4. keep the door in great shape – it sets the tone for your home, kind of like a person’s eyes. Keep the door clean at all times – I usually just hose it off to get rid of dust & pollen. If your door is wood, keep it dry & well sealed. If it’s painted, pay attention to when it may need touch ups. It’s so much easier when the problem is small than waiting until you have to paint the entire door.

Conclusion

Engaging all our senses in a home environment can elevate our daily experiences and contribute to overall well-being. By creating a multi-sensory living space that appeals to sight, sound, touch, smell, and even taste, we can cultivate a home that nurtures and rejuvenates us, making it a true sanctuary in our lives.