One of the fabulous features of living in a space that you love is its natural ability to heal us. There is no place like home. When life is challenging, home is our sanctuary. It's where we wish to be when the struggles of every day life set in.

One of the most important things I frequently define when working with clients — "Does it Feel Good?" Does it make you happy?"

Trends in design are following those mood altering guidelines. Hospitals and/or any health care type facilities are also jumping on board. Buildings are being designed with skylights or larger windows; natural light absolutely is mood elevating. Think of the extra Vitamin D your body will absorb.

Traffic patterns and layouts simplified to enhance spacious open feel; therefore anxieties felt by over stuffed rooms and/or clutter.

Scents are also used; often fresh baking and/or cinnamon candles frequently elevate or perk up our mood.

Day-to-day activities are stressful. Here are a few tips to aid in "mood enhanced homes".

SPRING CLEAN – Edit extras; take way all heavy, unnecessary fall or winter accessories. Distress by de-cluttering. Trust me, cleaning is much simpler. We are a buying society. We really do not need all that "stuff". The time you'll save with your regular weekly cleaning alone will be undeniable.

LIGHTEN UP – Did you know there are actual sun lamps available? Natural light increases energy and lifts your spirits. We all gravitate to light. Lift your blinds. Open your drapes. Open your windows, let the fresh air blow through the house. Get rid of those winter dust bunnies.

CHANGE YOUR FLOOR PLAN – Switch things up a bit. After all, a change is as good as a rest. Flip things around. Change that coffee table for a spring patterned fabric ottoman. Replace that heavy wood lamp with a light crystal base and white shade.

GO SHOPPING – Be inspired! If you look closely, all of the stores and showrooms follow these cues 100% for inspiration pieces, accessories that make you feel good. Clients often laugh as I have several pieces I call "Happy" pieces. They do not have to be sensible, just lovely and inspirational.

AROMATHERAPY – Smell goes directly to the brain. There is much evidence that scents are responded to very positively. Use lemon cleansing products. This is sure to add some needed zest in your cleaning regime.

Display things you love. Don't keep things out because they were gifts or even worse, hand-me-downs; only with "Happy things" that make you smile.

Jennifer Brouwer is the guiding force behind the service-oriented and value-focused company, Decor By Jennifer Inc., an innovative renovation and design consultancy operating in the thriving area of York Region. that creates breathtaking and functional spaces. Image from www.decorbyjennifer.com .