Self Care Space
It is really good to set up a self-care area or room. It is about creating a space where you feel safe, comfortable, and able to relax without any pressure to mask or conform. It’s your personal “happy place” where you can recharge and be yourself fully.
Here’s how to set up and personalise your self-care space to make it inviting and restorative, especially for neurodivergent individuals:
1. Choose the Right Location
Pick a Quiet Spot: Select an area of your home that feels peaceful and has minimal noise and distractions. It doesn’t have to be an entire room—a corner, a nook, or even a section of a room can work well.
Ensure Privacy: Choose a space where you can have some privacy to unwind without interruptions. If you’re sharing space, consider using room dividers, curtains, or even large plants to create a sense of separation.
2. Make It Sensory-Friendly
Lighting: Use soft, adjustable lighting. Fairy lights, salt lamps, or dimmable lights create a soothing atmosphere. Avoid harsh overhead lights; instead, opt for gentle, warm-toned lights that you can control based on your needs.
Textures and Comfort: Incorporate soft blankets, cushions, and rugs that feel pleasant to touch. Weighted blankets can add a comforting, grounding sensation. Choose textures that you enjoy and find calming.
Sounds: Set up a small speaker or use headphones to play gentle music, nature sounds, or white noise—anything that helps you relax. Consider soundproofing elements like thick curtains or door draft stoppers if outside noise is distracting.
Scents: If you enjoy scents, add a diffuser with essential oils like lavender, chamomile, or eucalyptus, which are known for their calming properties. Scented candles can also add to the ambience, but ensure they’re used safely.
Crystals: If you like crystals, put selenite, amethyst, smoky quartz and lapis lazuli in the area to help to unwind and relax.
3. Personalise with Comfort Items
Favourite Items: Fill your space with things that bring you joy and comfort—books, art, photos, or small keepsakes that make you smile. This personal touch helps make the area feel uniquely yours.
Fidget and Sensory Tools: Include fidget toys, stress balls, or other sensory items you enjoy using. These can help you self-soothe when you’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed.
Visual Calm: Choose calming colours for your space, like soft blues, greens, or neutrals. If you enjoy visuals, add artwork, posters, or tapestries that make you feel happy or relaxed.
4. Keep it Clutter-Free and Organised
Minimalism is Key: Too much clutter can be overwhelming, so keep the space tidy and simple. Use storage bins, shelves, or baskets to keep the area organised. Make sure everything has its place, so it’s easy to maintain a calm environment.
Comfortable Seating: Choose seating that suits your needs, whether it’s a comfy chair, bean bag, or floor cushions. Make sure it’s something you can relax into comfortably.
5. Set Boundaries for Your Space
This is Your Zone: Let family or housemates know that when you’re in this space, it’s your time for self-care. Setting clear boundaries can help you feel secure and uninterrupted.
Digital Rules: Consider limiting technology in this space if screens tend to overstimulate you. If you do use devices, ensure they contribute to relaxation, like playing music or mindfulness apps.
6. Incorporate Soothing Activities
Create a Routine: Use this space for calming activities like reading, journaling, meditating, or gentle stretches. Incorporating these activities into your time in this space helps create positive associations with it.
Crafts and Hobbies: If you have a hobby that relaxes you, like knitting, drawing, or puzzles, keep supplies handy in this area.
7. Regularly Refresh the Space
Update as Needed: Your needs may change, so feel free to switch things up. Move items around, add new elements, or refresh the space to keep it feeling supportive and aligned with your current needs.
Creating Your “Happy Place”
The key to turning this space into a true “happy place” is to make it yours. There’s no right or wrong way—just focus on what makes you feel most at ease. This is where you can fully unmask, relax, and allow yourself to recover from the day’s challenges. With the right setup, your self-care space becomes a nurturing environment that supports your energy, calms your mind, and helps you reconnect with yourself.
To find out how we help support neurodiverse business owners in other ways, why not head to the webpage below or book a FREE 1-2-1 consultation call with us today.
