For those that have been here before welcome back. We are your hosts, BJ 'n Cindy. We own and operate this site as well as the sister sites. How to Revive and Refresh Your Home To Create the Ideal Sanctuary During Stressful Times
by Virginia Cooper
Sometimes, life can get overwhelming, especially when your partner is in deployment. Wouldn’t it be nice to return home at the end of a stressful day and enter into a calm sanctuary? You can! There are many ways that you can make your home into a relaxing and healthful living space - a place where you can recover from your busy life and practice some self-care. Instead of succumbing to an unhealthy, sedentary lifestyle at home, you should revamp your space so it can help you thrive. Here are some ideas to revive and refresh your home, presented by Military Wives
Remodel Your Kitchen
One spot to start with when revamping your home is your kitchen. You can make this space warmer and healthier with a few updates. First, consider adding high-end cooking appliances and other food prep supplies so you can cut off your dependence on food delivery and takeout. Then, add more counter space with a layout redesign so cooking is more efficient. You'll need a contractor to help rearrange your kitchen's footprint.
Refresh the Bathrooms
The next room that should be on your upgrade list is your bathroom. Work with a contractor to plan a spa-like escape for your master bath. You can manage more of your self-care if you build an incredible bathroom retreat, complete with a soaking tub and separate shower. Or, if you're on a budget, add some soothing accessories, like lavender-scented soaps or luxury bath products.
Update Your Green Space
Being in nature has incredible benefits for our physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Spending time outside can reduce depression, increase motivation, boost your immune system, and keep your brain healthy. If you have a yard, put some effort into getting it lush and green for picnics with the kids or your girlfriends, or just to walk through barefoot to destress. If you need some help with lawn care while your partner is on deployment, look online for “lawn fertilization near me” and read through several reviews to find a great company. Select a few potentials and have them over to view your space and get an accurate written quote. Then, select the company that best fits your financial needs and that you feel most comfortable with.
Renovate Your Basement
Another spot that you could transform is your basement. You can partner with a general contractor to finish your basement and turn it into a home gym, yoga or meditation studio, or entertainment spot. It's possible to do a DIY remodel but to save your sanity and be happier with your results, choose a pro. Renovation costs can vary depending on your location, materials, and specific projects. After getting multiple quotes and making a selection, be sure to ask your contractor you choose about adding a subfloor to protect your basement carpet from mold or moisture.
Design an Exercise Space
If you have an extra space that needs a refresh, consider designing a workout room to get your body moving. Purchase inexpensive weights, mats, and equipment to give you plenty of home workout options. Consider using a contractor to add a sturdy floor or mount a flat-screen television to your wall so you can stream your favorite cardio videos.
Create a Home Office
You can also create a healthier work-life balance by designating a space to act as your home office. Choose a room that doesn't get a lot of foot traffic, such as the guest room or a hidden attic. Add a few accessories, such as a desk, computer, and filing cabinets, to set up your ideal working spot. Also, don’t rule out adding plants to this space — they can actually do wonders for your stress and anxiety levels. Aim to leave your job stresses in your home office, and take plenty of breaks to spend time with your family or care for yourself throughout your regular workday.
Revive Your Living Room
The last place to revive and refresh in your home is your living room. In most homes, this is the grand meeting spot for families, friends, and guests. Take some time to reconfigure your layout so comfort and relaxation are key. Clear the clutter and piles of random things to boost your mental health and make this space less of a problem.
It’s important to have a calm sanctuary from the world around you. Fortunately, there are choices both large and small that you can make to create this peaceful space in your own home. Use it to make self-care a priority, and to embrace a healthier lifestyle. And if you are a military spouse looking for some resources and support, visit Military Wives. The site is designed by and for military families to ease stresses, especially when your partner is out on deployment.
Contributed by
Virginia Cooper