As social distancing and self-isolation become par for the course, our homes are taking on a veritable range of avatars – as workspaces, as entertainment zones, as makeshift gyms and more – to accommodate our newfound home-centred lifestyle. If sequestering yourself inside your home is proving to be no bed of roses, take heart. With these easy-breezy tips, you can make staying at home a fun and fulfilling experience.

1. Cocoon yourself in calming colours
Light, neutral hues can help you feel relaxed and envelop you in Zen vibes. If you’re feeling a sense of imprisonment in the same environment all day, everyday, consider swapping out your furnishings and accents with lighter tones. Your curtains, cushions, linens and rugs are some elements you could focus your attention on.

2. Keep a scent
There’s nothing more invigorating than a scent that carries you to a happy place. Karnataka sandalwood might remind you of a holiday in the South Indian woodlands, while rose might conjure a memory of your childhood garden. Place aromatic candles or diffusers at your workstation or by your bed, to whisk you away when you need it most!

3. Bring in some plants
What better way to feel like you’re outside, than by inviting some plants inside? You don’t need a dedicated garden to add plants to your life; the dining room windowsill, the bathroom window, or the corner by the front door can work just as well. There are several Indian plant varieties that thrive indoors, with and without sunlight. So, if you’ve been wanting to work your green thumb, there is no better time than now!

4. Maximise natural and ambient light
If you’re spending the majority of your day at home, it’s worth levelling your lighting to suit your mood and time of day. Open your curtains to welcome natural light indoors; and if sunlight is in limited supply, place a mirror opposite the window to dial up the luminosity.In this living room by Weespaces, floor-to-ceiling windows channel sunlight evenly across the room. Sconces provide focused illumination, while a gilded chandelier carpets the room in ambient light.

5. Display your favourite things
Bring out tchotchkes and trinkets that you love! Seashells from the beach, souvenirs from holidays past and special photographs can make for a charming vignette on a spare table, or fitting additions to a display cabinet. By surrounding yourself with positive things, you’re bound to feel uplifted.