As people spend more time at home by limiting outings, it has become easier for daily routines to fall out of balance. To spend time at home in a healthy and comfortable way, it is important to create a well-ordered living environment. This article explains practical points you can start applying today from four perspectives: natural light, ventilation, temperature differences, and spatial design.
How can you make good use of natural light?
When you are exposed to sunlight, the brain releases “serotonin” (the happiness hormone), which supports emotional stability and helps regulate the autonomic nervous system. Serotonin released during the day promotes melatonin release at night, leading to better-quality sleep. Because artificial lighting cannot fully replace this effect, make it a habit to get around 15 minutes of sunlight each day by a sunny window or on a balcony.
How can you create indoor air that makes you want to take a deep breath?
About 56% of the substances a person takes in over a lifetime come from the air at home. Because mold, dust mites, and formaldehyde can all be sources of contamination, air quality management is directly linked to health.
- Opening two windows positioned diagonally across from each other allows ventilation to work efficiently
- During seasons when pollen and PM2.5 are a concern, consider installing a ventilation system
- Plaster walls finished with traditional lime plaster help suppress the growth of mold and bacteria and absorb formaldehyde and odors
Why is it important to eliminate temperature differences inside the home?
It is said that when body temperature drops by 1 degree, immunity declines by about 30%. When the temperature difference between the living room and the bathroom exceeds 10°C, the risk of heat shock leading to heart attack or stroke increases. Consider placing compact heaters in areas that get cold easily, and when renovating, consider upgrading insulation and airtightness, as well as installing floor heating or whole-house climate control.
Support your autonomic nervous system with spaces designed for each purpose
Now that working from home has become more common, it is important to separate spaces for concentration and relaxation. Spatial design that combines lighting (visual input) and fragrance (sense of smell) is effective in helping stabilize the autonomic nervous system. Lavender, hinoki cypress, and cedar are recommended for relaxation, while rosemary is well suited for concentration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the main reason daily routines tend to fall out of balance during time at home?
When you do not get enough sunlight, serotonin release decreases, which disrupts melatonin release at night. Getting 15 minutes of sunlight every morning is the most effective countermeasure.
How often should indoor spaces ideally be ventilated?
Ideally, you should ventilate for 5 to 10 minutes every one to two hours by opening two windows positioned diagonally across from each other.
Are there ways to improve air quality even in a rental home?
Frequent ventilation, placing charcoal or bamboo charcoal indoors, and using houseplants that absorb formaldehyde are all practical options that are easy to adopt even in rental properties.
What is a simple way to prevent heat shock?
A basic preventive measure is to place compact heaters in the bathroom, changing area, and toilet, and keep temperature differences within 5°C.
What helps create a focused work environment for working from home?
Setting up a dedicated space, using neutral white lighting, and incorporating rosemary aroma are all considered effective for improving concentration.
