How to Make a Positive Home During Lockdown

With many states across Australia entering their second coronavirus lockdown, things feel a bit different this time around. Staying at home has become the new normal – at least for now – and while the path back to regular life may be long, it’s also an opportunity to make your home a comfortable and uplifting space. At Koala Living, we understand how challenging these times can be, and we want to help you create a positive environment. That’s why we’re offering some simple tips to turn your home into a sanctuary of comfort and joy. Whether it’s decluttering or redecorating, these small changes can uplift your surroundings and bring a sense of peace.

Create a Healing Environment

While staying home helps keep you physically safe, it can be tough on the soul – especially with constant news updates and negativity. That’s why it's essential to create a space that promotes healing and lifts your spirits. Consider adding a few positive energy elements to your home that can make a big difference. Here are some ideas to explore:

• Crystals: Smoky quartz is known for its grounding properties and energy clearing, while rose quartz adds a touch of love and calm to any room. Even if you're unsure about their powers, they make for beautiful decor pieces.
• Cozy Furnishings: Soft velvet cushions or plush throw rugs instantly add warmth and comfort.
• Ginkgo Leaves: These beautiful leaves symbolize health, longevity, and hope, making them an inspiring addition to your decor. Consider adding artwork featuring ginkgo leaves to bring this symbolism into your space.
• Personal Touches: Art pieces, ornaments, or keepsakes that bring a smile to your face can infuse positive vibes throughout your space.
• Houseplants or Fresh Flowers: Adding greenery or flowers can enhance the air quality and brighten any room.

To further elevate the atmosphere, let fresh air flow through your home daily – even if it’s just for a few minutes (yes, even on a chilly Melbourne winter morning!). Alternatively, an air purifier works wonders for keeping things fresh. And don't forget scent: lighting a quality candle or burning some incense can completely transform the mood and help create a soothing, positive environment.

Work Hard at Work-Life Balance

When many of us started working from home, we saw it as a temporary fix – a laptop on a shoebox was a quick solution. But as remote work becomes a lasting reality, it's time to create a comfortable, productive home office setup.

Investing in a quality desk and chair is crucial to creating a comfortable and supportive work environment, helping prevent fatigue and discomfort during long hours at your workstation. An ergonomic desk not only enhances posture but also boosts productivity by allowing you to organize your space efficiently.

For style and functionality, consider the Nicholas Black Wooden Desk, which brings a touch of Art Deco elegance to any room. Or, for a touch of luxury, the San Pierre Study Desk with its sintered stone top offers both sophistication and durability. If you're using a laptop, pairing it with an external keyboard and mouse can also help raise your screen to eye level for a healthier setup.

If possible, dedicate a separate room for work, such as an unused guest room, and close the door when you’re done to maintain a clear boundary between work and personal time. If space is limited, use a side table from our collection with drawers to tuck away your work essentials at the end of the day. Lastly, add a “commute” to your routine – a five-minute walk at the start and end of your workday can help mentally transition between work and relaxation.

Bring Some Silver Screen Glamour to Your Living Room

Who else is missing a night out with dinner, a movie, and maybe a cocktail or two? While we can't hit the theaters right now, you can transform your living room into a glamorous movie night experience. Order from your favorite local restaurant, pour your drink of choice, and settle in for the ultimate night at home.

If your lounge room isn’t quite ready for those epic movie marathons, it might be time to consider an upgrade. A stylish new entertainment unit or a comfortable sofa can elevate your viewing experience. For the ultimate home theater vibes, go beyond the basics – a projector and retractable screen offer a sleek alternative to a traditional TV, letting you enjoy your films without compromising style.

And for those who love to Google mid-movie, our McKenna Recliner Sofas are perfect for you. With built-in USB charging ports, you can keep your phone charged and enjoy an uninterrupted movie night, all from the comfort of a luxurious seat.

Make Space to Move Your Body

A positive home is one where you feel at peace, but to truly unwind, it helps to keep your body moving too. Whether you're into yoga, pilates, dance, or simply stretching, creating a space for physical activity can make all the difference. For those who love a guided workout, pick a spot where you can easily see your screen – whether it's a TV, laptop, or tablet – to follow along with online classes or videos.

If you're more into freeform exercise, find a place that allows you to stretch, dance, or do bodyweight exercises comfortably without worrying about bumping into furniture. No matter what activity you enjoy, having a clear, open space to move can make your home feel more energizing. Don't be afraid to rearrange things; shifting your coffee table aside or rolling up a rug can create the perfect spot for you to exercise, meditate, or just unwind. Adapting your home to your lifestyle, even temporarily, can help you feel more balanced and active throughout lockdown.

Craft a Sanctuary at Home with Koala Living

During lockdown, creating a positive and uplifting space at home is essential, and Koala Living is here to help. Whether it's making your environment more comfortable, setting up a productive workspace, or bringing some glamour to your living room, small changes can transform your home into a sanctuary of comfort and joy. Visit one of our galleries to find the perfect pieces to enhance your space and make staying in a more enjoyable experience.