Even in a temporary space, I learned to create calm.
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When I searched how to make my home feel more peaceful, every article seemed to focus on renovation budgets and picture-perfect furniture. I needed something simpler. I had just turned thirty, was raising a toddler and a younger daughter, and still living in a rental I had never fully unpacked. Boxes sat in corners, walls were bare, and the energy felt as unsettled as I did. That cold, unfinished space mirrored my anxious mind, and I finally realized my home environment and mental health were weaving the same story. If I wanted to breathe easier, my house had to support me, even if it was only a stop along the way.
Today when I have guests come in its always the same thing. Your house is so inviting and feels good! I haven’t done any major decorating, just continued to create intentional items inside my home as I can.
Below are the ten calming shifts that helped me create a peaceful home without spending a fortune or waiting for “someday.” They rely on sensory cues, gentle routines, and mindset changes anyone can try—whether you rent, own, or live in a temporary space.
1. I bought a Wax Melter With My Favorite Scent
Scent is a fast track to memory and mood. I chose a wax melter with Gain-scented cubes because clean laundry reminds me of fresh starts. When that fragrance drifts through the rooms, the house feels cared for, and so do I. If you like clean scent that are not overbearing get the Gain-scented wax melts specifically. It is the only scent I will use after I have just cleaned my home. Wax Melt Warmer: CLICK HERE , Gain Wax Melts
2. I Added a Pretty Basket in the Living Room for Clutter
Toys were everywhere. Instead of chasing clutter all day, I placed one woven basket by the couch. At night, everything gets tossed inside, and the room looks collected in thirty seconds. A small container can create a big sense of order. I was able to reset the days energy with a little amount of effort and it helped me to relax in that area after the kids had gone to bed. Round Wicker Basket: CLICK HERE
Photo by cottonbro studio
3. I Bought Soft, Textured Throw Covers
A plush blanket signals safety. I draped two textured throws over the sofa, and the whole space felt instantly cozier. When your body relaxes into softness, your nervous system follows. Calming home decor does not need to be complicated. In my culture you can never have too many blankets but if you’re going to invest in a blanket get a good quality one. It’s worth it in the end. Plush Blanket: CLICK HERE
4. I Hung Up Family Pictures
For years I refused to decorate because I thought we would move soon. Blank walls echoed that temporary mindset. Once I framed family photos and let my daughters pick spots for their art, the house felt rooted. This doesn’t have to be expensive you, I framed different herbs at one point to give my living room some extra color. The faces & art on the wall remind me why I pursue peace in the first place. It gave my home the spark that it I knew had been missing. Cute Frames: CLICK HERE
Photo by Trash Art
5. I Created a Prayer and Meditation Corner With a Waterfountain
A single striped rug, some tea lights, and a tranquil water fountain lived in the corner of the bedroom. That small setup invited me to sit, breathe, and check in with God and myself. It is my pause button when the day races by. I’ll create an article later on about how to setup your sacred space corner, if you only do one thing on this list, DO THIS! When I turn the waterfall on it was my way to program my brain that it was time to reflect and be still. Check this one out, it is gorgeous: CLICK HERE
Photo by Nataliya Vaitkevich
6. I Wrote Affirmations on the Fridge
Sticky notes and dry-erase markers turned the refrigerator into a gentle coach. “This season is temporary.” “You are doing better than you think.” Seeing those words at eye level interrupts negative self-talk and reinforces personal growth after loss. It helped give me that extra boost in the day when I started to doubt whether I was “doing” life right. Dry Erase markers worked the best for me because they are easily accessible and easy to clean up. Colorful Dry Erase Markers: CLICK HERE
Photo by Tara Winstead
7. I bought A Lot of Snake Plants
I needed greenery that could forgive a busy schedule. Snake plants clean the air, thrive on neglect, and add quiet life to any room. A little bit of green softens the visual edges and refreshes the energy. I love these plants because they are minimal maintenance especially for a busy Mom. I even bought couple of artificial plants just to add to the mix. These are some affordable options and will create some variety for your home: Faux Plants: CLICK HERE
8. I Switched to Soft Lighting
You wouldn’t believe how much this made a difference. Ceiling lights can feel harsh, especially in the evening. I replaced them with warm but soft floor lamps. Softer illumination signals the whole family that it is time to slow down, and it turns bedtime into a gentle glide rather than a crash landing. I like to turn on jazz as background music just to add to the environment. Floor Lamp: CLICK HERE
9. I Burned the “Bougie” Candles
I stopped saving expensive candles for special occasions. Lighting them on an ordinary Tuesday reminds me that peace belongs to everyday life, not just vacations or holidays. Scents like sandalwood, vanilla, or bergamot invite calm and make routine evenings feel nurturing. This specific scent give the feeling of luxury and delightfulness. If you are on a budget add this to your next gift wish list. This is an absolute game changer once lit. Le Labo Candle: CLICK HERE
10. I Decided This Was Home…Even If It Wasn’t Forever
The biggest change was inside my mind. I gave myself permission to live fully in this rental, even if we move later. Once I claimed the space, every other action became easier. Peace arrived when I stopped waiting for a future address to deserve it. During this phase of my life I began to read a lot more books. If you are struggling with mindset and inner conflict, I highly suggest you read: Feeding Your Demons by Jack Kornfield. Get it HERE.
Final Thoughts
You do not need a perfect house to practice peaceful living. You do not need matching furniture, a renovation budget, or ownership papers. You only need intentional choices that tell your body and spirit, “You are safe here.” A fragrance, a plant, a soft blanket, or a single cleared drawer can shift the atmosphere and your mood.
Peace starts small.
Peace starts now.
And you deserve to feel at home, right where you are.
XOXO
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