Calming Colors: Paint And Decor Choices For Sensory-Friendly Spaces

Creating a sensory-friendly home is essential for fostering relaxation, comfort, and well-being for all occupants. Colors and decor play a significant role in shaping the atmosphere of a space, particularly for individuals who are sensitive to sensory stimuli. By carefully selecting calming paint colors, textures, and design elements, homeowners can cultivate environments that minimize sensory overload and promote tranquility. 

The Role of Color in Sensory-Friendly Spaces 

Color has a profound psychological impact on mood and stress levels. Certain hues can create a sense of calm, while others may feel overwhelming or overstimulating. To design a sensory-friendly home, it is crucial to choose colors that contribute to relaxation and harmony. 

Best calming colors for home interiors 

1. Soft Blues — Light shades of blue, such as sky blue and powder blue, evoke a sense of serenity and peace, making them ideal for bedrooms, living rooms, and study areas. 

2. Muted Greens — Sage, olive, and other soft greens create a connection to nature, offering a refreshing and soothing effect. 

3. Warm Neutrals — Beige, taupe, and warm grays provide a neutral backdrop that is easy on the eyes and pairs well with other colors. 

4. Pale Lavenders — Light purples can bring a subtle sense of calm without being overly stimulating. 

5. Soft Pinks — Blush and dusty rose shades add warmth and comfort, particularly in relaxation spaces. 

Avoiding overly bright or high-contrast colors, such as neon hues and stark black-and-white combinations, is essential in sensory-friendly spaces. These colors can contribute to visual overstimulation and increase stress levels. 

Incorporating Texture and Decor for a Calming Environment 

Beyond color, texture and decor elements influence how a space feels and functions. Thoughtful material and design choices can further enhance the sensory experience. 

Choosing the right textures 

• Matte Finishes — Glossy surfaces can create glare and visual discomfort. Opting for matte or eggshell paint finishes helps reduce reflections and softens the overall look of a space. 

• Soft Fabrics — Incorporating plush fabrics like cotton, linen, and microfiber in furniture, pillows, and curtains can create a cozy and comforting atmosphere. 

• Natural Materials — Wood, bamboo, and stone bring a grounding, organic quality to the space and can help create a balanced environment. 

• Layered Textiles — Adding area rugs, throws, and upholstered furniture can provide tactile comfort and minimize echoes in a room, reducing auditory overstimulation. 

Minimizing sensory overload 

To create a truly calming environment, it is important to limit visual and auditory clutter. Strategies for achieving this include: 

• Decluttering and Organizing — Maintaining a tidy space reduces unnecessary stimuli and enhances focus and relaxation. 

• Soft Lighting — Using warm, dimmable lighting instead of harsh fluorescent lights can create a more soothing ambiance. 

• Minimalist Decor — Opting for simple and intentional decorative elements helps maintain a sense of calm without overwhelming the senses. 

• Sound Absorption — Incorporating rugs, curtains, and upholstered furniture can help absorb excess noise and create a quieter environment. 

Sensory-Friendly Spaces and Well-Being 

A thoughtfully designed sensory-friendly space can benefit individuals with sensory sensitivities, such as those with autism or anxiety. Many families incorporate these principles into their homes to support the well-being of loved ones who receive ABA therapy services, as calm and structured environments can enhance focus and comfort during therapeutic activities. However, sensory-friendly design is beneficial for everyone, fostering a home environment that encourages relaxation and mental clarity. 

Designing a Home for Peace and Comfort 

By carefully selecting calming paint colors, incorporating soft textures, and minimizing sensory overload through strategic decor choices, homeowners can create spaces that promote tranquility and well-being. Whether designing for a specific sensory need or simply seeking a more peaceful home, these thoughtful adjustments can make a significant difference in overall comfort and quality of life. 

Heather Teichman is Senior Vice President of Therapy Services at BY YOUR SIDE Autism Therapy Services, which provides Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy and other services at multiple locations in Illinois, Georgia and Colorado. Teichman has more than two decades of experience in ABA therapy and autism services. A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Applied Behavior Analyst (LABA), she has devoted her career to supporting children with autism and their families. Through her compassionate, expert guidance, she brings a multidisciplinary approach to care that is accessible, effective, and family-centered. 

How Air Quality Impacts Children's Sleep: Tips For A Healthier Home Environment

Good sleep is essential for children's growth and development. While many factors can influence their sleep, one that is often overlooked is air quality. The air inside your home can significantly impact how well your child sleeps, especially when it comes to respiratory health and comfort during the night. Understanding how air quality affects sleep can help parents make informed decisions to create a healthier environment for their children.

The Connection Between Air Quality and Sleep

Children are particularly sensitive to the quality of the air they breathe. Poor air quality can contribute to allergies, asthma, and other respiratory issues that can disrupt sleep patterns. Pollutants such as dust, pet dander, and mold spores can trigger these problems, causing discomfort and making it harder for kids to fall and stay asleep. Additionally, high levels of carbon dioxide and humidity can negatively affect sleep by making the air feel stuffy and difficult to breathe.

When a child’s bedroom isn’t properly ventilated, the build-up of airborne contaminants can lead to coughing, sneezing, and difficulty breathing. This can make the room less conducive to a restful night’s sleep, which in turn can affect mood, energy levels, and cognitive function during the day.

Improving Air Quality for Better Sleep

One of the most effective ways to improve indoor air quality is by ensuring that your HVAC system is properly maintained. Regular HVAC services can help remove dust and allergens from your home's air and improve ventilation. Installing air purifiers in your child's bedroom can also help remove particulate matter and ensure that the air stays fresh and clean. Keeping the humidity levels balanced can prevent mold growth, which is another potential sleep disruptor.

Other steps include regularly cleaning the home and keeping windows open when possible to allow for fresh air circulation. Choosing non-toxic paints and cleaning products can also minimize the presence of chemicals in the air, promoting a healthier environment for your child.

When you focus on improving indoor air quality, you're not just enhancing your child’s sleep but also their overall well-being. Ensuring your home has clean, fresh air can help your child get the restful sleep they need for healthy development. Through simple adjustments like maintaining HVAC systems and cleaning regularly, parents can create a healthier, more comfortable environment that supports better sleep for their children. Check out the infographic below to learn more. 

How Can You Maximize Nutrition with Whole Foods on a Vegan Diet?

We partnered with a wellness company for this post. The opinions in the post are honest. All reviews and opinions expressed in this post are based on our personal views. We are excited because we know you will love it.

There can be many debates about what to eat and what to not. But how can one decide he is on the right track for a healthy lifestyle? Experts also claim many things about it.

If we summarize all the expert's opinions in a line then a diet that is full of whole foods is a perfect way to increase the health quality. Whole foods are all about plant-based foods that are naturally good sources of proteins, fiber, healthy fats, vitamins, and many more essential nutrients.

If you are also someone who wants to know how can you maximize nutrition with whole foods then this guide is only for you. We will explore different whole foods options here to help you decide what should you eat.

Let’s get started.

Boost Your Protein Intake With Whole Foods

It is a most often-heard myth that vegan diets are not good as they have no protein sources. This is not true. 

In fact, there are many sources in a vegan diet that ensure good protein intake. All in an easy and simple way. How? 

Lentils, beans, tofu, quinoa, and tempeh are some of the best meals that you can consider for an adequate amount of protein. Add whatever from them to your meals. These are great protein sources.

These foods provide more than just protein. They offer fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Your body needs all of these to stay healthy.

You can also combine different plant-based proteins. This way, you can get a complete protein profile. Your body will get all the amino acids it needs.

Best Whole Food Sources of Healthy Fats

Whole Foods also offers a good amount of healthy fats to its consumers. There are two types of fats that we often see in our food choices. One of them is a healthy fat that our body must need for its optimal functioning. 

Healthy fats are very good in a balanced vegan diet. You should also know that such healthy fats are good for you. It is especially considered more when they come from whole foods. 

Avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil are some of the excellent sources of healthy fats. It would be great if you add such sources to your diet.

It is also worth mentioning that healthy fats with omega-3 fatty acids provide a very good pairing combination. Flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts are some of the good omega-3 sources. You can add them as an essential component for your brain function and reduce inflammation.

Fiber Sources From Whole Foods On a Vegan Diet

A vegan diet is incomplete without vegetables. It is also important for you to know that more than half amount of all fiber sources are mostly from whole food sources. Yes – it is true that we can get a huge quantity of fiber from vegetables, lentils, and fruits.

Now, if you are thinking about the role of fiber in the human body then it’s important to mention that the role of fiber is very prominent in your body. It can assist you in the digestion process and also work as an antioxidant. 

It is also worth mentioning that fiber is very good especially if you are on your weight management journey. They are lower in calories and are more fuller in eating. So, it would be a great approach to add them to a healthy meal.

Whole Foods Souces For Skin, Joints & Bones 

We all know very well about the role of collagen in our skin, joints, and bones. Did you know that whole foods can help support your body’s collagen production? 

Yes, It’s absolutely true!

There are many foods present that are rich in vitamin C, like citrus fruits, bell peppers, and broccoli. All of them are crucial for collagen synthesis. Moreover, you can pair such foods with zinc-rich foods. They are better for many reasons. So, you should add foods like pumpkin seeds and cashews for more benefits.

Want extra support? It’s time to consider a supplement like Sunwarrior Vegan Collagen Building Powder. Trust me, it’s an easy addition to your routine and worth it!

Bottom Line

Whole foods are really one of the most important foods that you can choose to enjoy many benefits. These are endless. From health benefits to your overall well-being. 

All you need to do is to make a balanced vegan meal plate without processed foods. This way you can elevate your health in no time.

Daily Activities in Assisted Living and Memory Care: What to Expect

We partnered with an health company for this post. The opinions in the post are honest. All reviews and opinions expressed in this post are based on our personal views. We are excited because we know you will love it.

Moving into an assisted living and memory care facility can feel like a big change. It's important to understand what daily life will be like in these settings. Knowing the types of activities residents do each day can help make this transition easier for families.

In these facilities, people get help with daily tasks and also take part in activities that improve their health and well-being. Follow along to uncover the details that matter.

Starting the Day With a Routine

Each day in an assisted living or memory care facility usually starts with a simple breakfast. This meal gives residents the energy they need to begin the day. After breakfast, there are several activities to choose from.

These activities are planned to keep residents active, engaged, and social. Having a routine is important, especially for people with memory problems. A regular schedule helps reduce confusion and stress.

Fun and Healthy Activities

These centers offer many fun activities. Here are some of the common activities in these facilities:

Exercise Classes

Exercise is important for staying healthy. Many facilities offer easy-to-follow exercise classes for seniors. These classes can include stretching, chair exercises, or walking.

Arts and Crafts

Arts and crafts activities, such as painting or knitting, are another way residents stay busy. These activities are good for mental health because they help reduce stress. Sometimes, these activities can be done in groups, allowing residents to socialize while they work on projects.

Games for the Mind

Memory games, puzzles, and trivia help keep the brain active. These activities are great for people with memory issues because they improve brain function and slow cognitive decline. 

Music Therapy

Music can bring back memories and help people feel happier. Some facilities offer music sessions where residents can listen to their favorite songs, sing, or even play instruments. It can improve mental and emotional health.

Outdoor Activities

Many facilities have gardens or outdoor spaces for residents to enjoy. Taking walks, gardening, or simply sitting outside in the fresh air is good for both physical and emotional health. It helps residents feel calm and relaxed.

Activities Tailored to Each Resident

One of the best things about assisted living is that activities are personalized. The staff learn about each resident's interests and abilities to make sure they can take part in activities they enjoy.

Many facilities encourage residents to play games, join group activities, or spend time with staff. These social activities help residents feel connected to others and less lonely. 

Family Involvement

Family members are encouraged to stay involved in their loved ones' lives. Visiting regularly can help boost a resident's mood and make them feel supported. Some facilities even offer activities that allow family members to join in.

This gives families a chance to spend quality time with their loved ones and strengthen their bond. It's also a great opportunity to be alert to any changes in behavior, which can help with spotting early warning signs of dementia, allowing families to seek the appropriate care and support.

Key Takeaways from Assisted Living and Memory Care

The daily activities in assisted living and memory care centers are designed to improve residents' health and happiness. Having a daily routine and personalized care makes residents feel secure and comfortable.

Understanding the daily activities at these facilities can help ease the transition and show that life can be enjoyable and fulfilling. Explore more! Our blog has everything you need to know!