In a fast-paced life such as we live in today, it takes an effort to find time to slow down and enjoy a stress-free afternoon. As we find time for those slowing down activities, we also need to dedicate spaces in our homes for those activities. These spaces will serve as a reminder for us to take time to slow down.
A reading nook can help you achieve this. Note that it doesn’t have to be a whole room, just a corner with pieces of comfort that invite you to simply sit, breathe, and read.
When building your reading nook, it is important to take note of your answers to some of these questions:
- What are the things that make you feel cozy?
- What are the things you want to accomplish in this area – quiet, comfort, seclusion (alone time)?
One tip in completing your reading nook is to think about the things that make you feel relaxed and soothed – happy! Bring those elements in.
Here are some tips to get you started.
How to Create a Perfect Reading Nook
1. Choose the perfect space.
Go through your home and mark your favorite places to read. Choose a space to claim as your reading nook. Most people choose an area in their bedrooms since it can easily be secluded and private.
2. Make it comfortable.
Now that you have decided where your reading corner is going to be, the next step will be to make it comfortable. Think cozy! Nothing says cozy more than soft materials such as pillows, throws, rugs, and blankets! Find a comfortable chair you can see yourself snuggling into, then match a throw pillow that brings texture (and decoration!) and a blanket – and you are done!
3. Add an area for books.
This can be a bookshelf, a coffee table, or a built-in shelf especially in bay seats.
4. Lights – natural and bright lights!
It is recommended that you choose a reading nook near a window because nothing beats natural light when reading. When sunlight streams in your corner, it makes a space brighter and look more inviting.
You can have a dedicated lamp for reading at night or string some fairy lights for additional decoration. Warm lighting gives a comfier feel than white lights.
5. Bring some plants in.
Plants absorb carbon out from our lungs and bring more oxygen into the area. It is scientifically-proven to lift spirits, improve moods, and alleviate stress levels. It’s also a great visual when you need to rest your eyes and stare into some greenery!
Enjoy and Utilize Your Reading Nook
Now that you have created your own space – enjoy it and most importantly, use it! Everyone has their own version of their perfect reading nooks – but the underlying theme is always comfort and me-time. We hope these tips help you create your own.
