While we usually associate home wellness tips during peak flu and cold seasons, summer is an optimal time to work extra wellness and happiness hacks into your home. With the longer and brighter days, there are small adjustments you can make to create a living space that will give your well-being an added boost this sunshine season.

Embrace Natural Light and Fresh Air.

• Open up your windows and curtains to let in natural sunlight, which can boost your mood and productivity (while regulating sleep patterns, too).
• Create a “cross-ventilation” system by strategically opening windows across from one another to promote better air circulation and pull fresh air into your home. 
• Enhance your indoor air quality by adding a few houseplants near your windows.

Create Inviting Outdoor Spaces.

• Us Michiganders need all of the vitamin D we can get! Create areas outside of your home that will inspire you to soak up the summer sun and reduce stress.
• Reset your body’s circadian rhythm by sitting in natural light first thing in the morning. Set up an outdoor seating area where you can enjoy your morning coffee.
• Purchase and plant flowers to motivate you to get outside and water them daily, plus looking at the beautiful colors will brighten your day!
• Hang up wind chimes, so you can listen to pretty sounds while unwinding on your patio in the evening.

Designate Digital Detox Zones.

• The constant use of blue light screens can cause your energy levels to plummet and your stress to increase.
• The latest trend hitting many households is establishing “tech-free” areas where you can unplug and disconnect from the virtual world (and all of the stress-inducing dings and pings that come with it).
• Create calming meditation corners or reading nooks stocked with books, puzzles, magazines, conversation cards or board games to encourage offline activities and quality time connecting with your loved ones.

Improve Your Sleep Environment.

• Have an early bedtime before the summer sun sets? Block out excess light using blackout curtains to create a dark and tranquil sleep setting.
• Consider investing in breathable bedding that’s suitable for warmer temperatures.
• Keep bedroom doors open to help your air conditioning (or the evening breeze on cooler summer nights) circulate throughout your home.

Remember, your home plays a big part in creating a healthy and refreshing summer environment to help you and your family recharge and rest. Give these easy, affordable wellness tips a try!