There are endless ways to decorate a bedroom, but the room should above all encourage relaxation and sleep. A good night’s sleep is an essential element of a healthy lifestyle. Here are some effective ways to create a calm and relaxing environment in the bedroom.

Opaque Window Coverings

Blackout shades are recommended for bedroom windows. Your body repairs itself while you sleep, and it needs darkness to do so effectively. There are many options for blackouts that filter enough light so you can wake up in the morning naturally to sunshine yet provide sufficient privacy during the day.

Calming Color Palette

Many people prefer warm colors over cool ones, but when it comes to the bedroom, cooler hues are the better choice because of their calming effect. Blue, lilac and cool shades of gray promote rest, while warm tones can often be energizing and more likely to keep you up at night.

Minimal Decor

Even though your eyes will be closed when you go to sleep, if you have too many distractions in your bedroom, it may be hard to actually fall asleep. It’s wise to get rid of the clutter around your bed. Keeping your bedroom clear of distractions will help you clear your mind at the end of a long day.

Properly Positioned Bed

Positioning your bed so it’s one of the first things you see when you walk into a room is a great way to invite you into the space. However, if your windows have a view consider having your bed so that it faces the view. Just make sure to purchase those blackout shades.

Safe Circulation

Ensure that you leave enough room around your bed so that you aren’t bumping your shins or stubbing your toes when getting in and out of it. Consider the actual dimensions of the bed frame when purchasing a mattress, not just whether it holds a twin, full, queen or king size.

Adjustable Lighting

Bedside lighting is critical. Soft, soothing lighting is ideal for a bedroom. Having light fixtures on a dimmer is also a smart move since it lets you regulate the amount of light. Adjustable sconce lighting is a great option because it allows you to keep your nightstand neat and tidy, and it can be positioned to provide optimal lighting for reading in bed.

Expressive Headboard

You want to keep your room free of distractions and other stimulation, think about using an interesting headboard. This is an opportunity to express your creativity. If not a headboard, then think about installing an interesting item above your bed. It’s also important to consider what your headboard will look like to you when you’re lying down on your bed. Is it distracting? Will it affect the way you sleep? Remember, achieving a good night’s sleep is key.

Quiet Ceiling Fan

Fans help provide good circulation and fresh air, which will help you get a good night’s sleep. It’s not imperative to have a fan, but it’s certainly a bonus to any healthy bedroom. Just be sure to find one that makes as little noise as possible.

Peaceful Artwork

In keeping with the theme of creating a relaxing environment, it’s important to choose art that’s calming and sleep-inducing. Choose your art wisely, and keep it sparse in your bedroom. Again, you don’t want too many distractions.

No Tech

Banish the television, computer and exercise equipment from the bedroom. To make it a peaceful haven, you need to ensure that you aren’t bringing your work to bed with you. Creating an oasis devoid of technology will allow you to connect better to your natural biorhythms.