Did you know that a surprising 42% of U.S. adults consider ‘being in nature’ an essential part of their self-care routine? It’s a pretty significant statistic, especially when you think about how many of those people are enjoying the peaceful, serene environments found in rural areas, away from the business of city life. But on the flip side, for those living in metropolises like New York City, finding natural touches and a sense of peace right outside their front doors can often be a bit of a challenge. Of course, you can grab that much-needed dose of greenery with a stroll through Central Park on a sunny day, or take a moment to gaze at the picturesque Hudson River, but what happens when the weather isn’t cooperating or when you simply can’t get out to enjoy those spaces? For city dwellers who often find themselves feeling a bit cut off from the refreshing and rejuvenating touches of the outdoors, transforming your living space into a cozy, nature-inspired heaven might just be the answer.
Comfort & Nature
When it comes to furniture—especially those larger, eye-catching pieces like sofas—comfort should be at the top of the list, and the reasons behind this are pretty compelling. After a draining day spent weaving through the city, it’s pure bliss to ease into a comfy sofa and turn your living room into a quiet escape from the urban madness. When you opt for soft furniture it really does create a space that feels welcoming and also reminds you of the earthy textures of the great outdoors. When you go for pieces upholstered in natural fabrics that are a joy to touch and snuggle into, you’re effectively transforming your home into a place where you can kick back, relax, and take a deep breath. What’s also a great perk is that those snuggly materials help you feel grounded and at peace, and bring a little slice of the tranquility you’d find outside right into your indoor living space.
Plants for City Living
When it comes to injecting some greenery into your home, plants are an obvious and fantastic choice, but the benefits go way beyond just aesthetics. Having indoor plants is actually a smart, health-conscious move for your space because these leafy wonders have an incredible knack for cleaning the air of carbon dioxide. And that’s just the beginning; studies have shown that the average houseplant can help remove harmful substances like formaldehyde and benzene, along with a slew of other toxins that often lurk in typical indoor air—something that’s particularly beneficial for those living in busy city environments where air quality can be less optimal. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, you can also experiment with cultivating a small herb garden right on your kitchen windowsill.
Natural Fabrics
Materials like cotton, linen, wool, and jute have that earthy vibe and also bring warmth and comfort to your living space. Using these natural fabrics in throw pillows, area rugs, and even wall hangings can provide texture and warmth, which can make your city home feel inviting and relaxed. These materials are also more breathable and sustainable, which means you’re also doing a favor for Mother Earth while creating an oasis.
Living in the city is a unique experience that offers so much excitement and energy, but whether we admit it or not, we’re all wired to connect with nature in some way. The truth is, city life can sometimes feel disconnected from the greenery and tranquility that come from being outdoors, but these easy methods could help to bring a slice of nature into your urban dwelling.
