As summer comes to an end we highly recommend a vacation and the opportunity to FULLY disconnect. In today’s world of constant movement and connectivity, the idea of setting an out of office and fully disconnecting almost feels like an act of rebellion. But there is no better medicine to rest, recharge and come back with a renewed sense of clarity and inspiration. Can’t go on vacation? We got you. Read on for more!
RESIDENTIAL
ANATOMY OF A POCKET SANCTUARY AT HOME
When it comes to disconnecting in your home, the best thing you can do is create a pocket sanctuary. This is a place where you go specifically to sit in peace, clear your mind, rest and recharge. To do this, check out our tips below, showing the anatomy of a pocket sanctuary.
For best results, use this space daily for at least ten minutes in the morning or ten minutes in the evening to sit, breathe and just be. If you can incorporate mediation – even better!
- Creating a pocket sanctuary doesn’t mean you’ll need to start working on an addition to your home – it actually doesn’t need to be a separate room at all. Choose an area within an existing room or space that feels comfortable to you. You can’t see it in this photo – but the sanctuary that we created in The Farmhouse is actually just to one side of the living room.
2. Your pocket sanctuary can be as simple as a comfortable armchair (we love this one from Interior Define)
3. This should be a ‘no cell phone zone’ so that you can truly disconnect. No tech allowed – but we do condone curling up with a good book. We are loving The Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer. Highly recommend!
4. As holistic interior designers – we of course need to mention that the ideal space incorporates some connection to nature. It can be a plant, as shown here or artwork with an organic motif. To maximize the effect, we also recommend creating your pocket sanctuary near a window with natural light if possible.
5. Choose light, neutral colors and soft, natural materials and fabrics for a calming effect.
COMMERCIAL
ANATOMY OF A POCKET SANCTUARY AT WORK
In a world that so highly values success and productivity – it’s important to remember that we are not meant to be working for 8 hours straight in high-focus, intense work. It’s important for our wellbeing, and also to feel inspired, to take breaks throughout the day to recharge. By creating a pocket sanctuary at the office – we can do just that.
- Make the space feel more like home than the rest of the office. Use ‘resimercial’ pieces that are comfortable, soft and welcoming. It’s important to take a break when you begin to feel tired or uninspired – so creating a space unlike the work area – which likely is full of desks and more utilitarian – is key.
2. Just like the pocket sanctuary in the home, choose a space that gets lots of natural light.
3. Follow the break by a cup of coffee, tea and dark chocolate for a nice boost post-break (this coffee table is a great choice to rest them on!)
4. Along the same lines – incorporate touches of nature. We love adding lots of plants to an office space especially as connection to nature boots not only mood and productivity.
5. Ensure that the space you choose can be a quiet one. An enclosed space is ideal, but using noise canceling headphones can also go a long way.
Gala Magriñá Design works with clients that understand the importance of creating a beautiful space and want to work with a no-nonsense design team that is able to clearly chart the best way forward. What separates or approach from other designers is our extensive knowledge of how people live and how best to create a customized space that nurtures that. We aim to merge cool and beautiful interiors with a holistic, mindful and intuitive approach to design that results in powerful, healthy spaces that elevate and transform people’s lives. For more information please visit www.galamagrinadesign.com.