The places we spend the most time in have a huge impact on our mindset. That’s why since the coronavirus pandemic began, lots of people have been remaking their homes to become more cozy, more calming and more efficient. In other words, they’re creating spaces where they really want to be.

It’s called “comfort decorating,” and it can provide a sense of normalcy even when everything around us feels, well, not very normal.

Small touches can make a big difference. You’ll want to think about color: Sally Augustin, an environmental psychologist and principal at Design With Science, says blues create calm and greens elicit creativity. Bring in some nostalgia with old objects to remind yourself about what’s important in your life, and swap them out regularly if they make your space feel cluttered. A sense of control over your space, says Augustin, “boosts your mood, and that helps you get along with others and helps you solve problems effectively.”

For more on comfort decorating and tips for your home, from Augustin and interior designer Dabito, press play on the audio above or listen here.

The podcast version of this episode was produced by Audrey Nguyen.

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