Our environment can have a huge impact on our mood, and kitchens are a central part of our homes. A well-lit, organized and cheerful kitchen is cheerier than a chaotic, dismal one. In the spirit of spring, here are some mood-boosting tips to transform and brighten up your kitchen.
1. Kiss clutter goodbye
Be honest for a second – how many things in your kitchen do you use regularly? When it’s time to find something you actually need, is it lost under an endless pile of junk? If you’re nodding your head, your kitchen might be due for de-cluttering.
Sometimes, we get so used to clutter that it becomes part of the backdrop. But whether you know it or not, all of that junk is weighing down your home.
Set aside a few hours this weekend to go through your kitchen. Marie Kondo, author of “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing,” recommends asking a single question of each item in your house: “Does it spark joy?” If you don’t love it, toss it. A kitchen with clear counters and organized drawers will do wonders for your mood.
2. Choose a new color scheme
Monotony is the enemy of creativity. Research shows a monotonous environment can make you lose focus. If you’ve been in a rut recently, give your kitchen a new color scheme to shake things up.
Color has a huge impact on your mood. Try a splash of new color on your kitchen’s trim, or cabinets this spring. Adding bright colors that you love will make being in your kitchen a joy.
3. Update your lighting system
Is your kitchen getting enough natural light? What about your lighting fixtures? Having more light will make your kitchen a brighter, happier room. Make sure to replace any light bulbs that are burnt out. Consider replacing any light fixtures that aren’t providing enough light, or add new ones.
4. Add your own spice garden
If your kitchen has a window that faces the sun, invest in a few of your favorite herbs. Houseplants add color to a room and improve your mood. Another advantage: herbs smell great. Knowing that they’re there might make you more motivated to cook, too! Did someone say spaghetti for dinner with fresh basil? Yes, please!