Do you remember that vintage commercial for Calgon where the woman is seen in the midst of a chaotic home scenario juggling the rigors of daily chores and demanding children? The scene escalates, tensions rise and finally, she utters that famous line: “Calgon, take me away,” and then is seen relaxing in a luxurious bath. The popular catch phrase encapsulates the feeling of distress that many of us experience from time to time. It also illustrates the importance of having a place in your home where you can seek peace. Creating a tranquil living space may seem like wishful thinking, especially when you are raising a growing family, but it is possible. Here are some tips to help you achieve a peaceful home environment:
Turn off the television. That means putting the kabash on video games, TV shows, and DVDs. If you have children, take the time to read to them. Institute a family game night that includes games for various age and skill levels. Go through family albums or scrapbooks, build a model airplane, make a kite, or bake together. Initially, your children may protest, but you’ll find that soon enough they will be so engrossed in their new activities that the TV will become an afterthought (well, at least for a night or two).
This next idea comes from my friend who lives in the heart of New York City, not far from New York University, where the sounds of sirens and drunken students often mar his family’s tranquil living space. To combat this problem he created a surround sound system by hooking up his cable television to his stereo system. It provides non-stop, commercial-free music to all parts of his home. He says the channels that provide classical, light classical and new age music create a nice “soundscape” for his home. He is also convinced that it has helped “mellow” his toddler daughter. The soft music being pumped throughout his home not only helps to lull his daughter to sleep it also creates a soothing backdrop for her while she bathes.
Finally, a few years ago I was convinced that having a tabletop rock water fountain would help lower my stress level. I figured the trickling water would create a truly relaxing environment in my home and for less than $100 it was more affordable than getting a weekly massage. My husband got me one for Christmas. I used it for about a year and found it did add a nice touch to our home (though he considered it a form of Chinese water torture). Ultimately, I ended up putting it away when my daughter began walking and climbing, as it became more of a liability than a source of relaxation. However, if you enjoy the soothing sound of water and don’t have young children I would recommend purchasing one.