Nature Inspired Design {air}
/The concept of using the earth elements (earth, water, fire, air) derives from ancient Eastern philosophies like Feng Shui and Ayurveda. In this blog post, I will be discussing how we can healthfully incorporate the element of air into our interior spaces to create a harmonious and balanced environment.
In holistic design, incorporating the symbolic meaning of air can help create environments that promote clarity, creativity, and connection with the natural world.
1. Symbolic Meaning:
Intellect & Clarity: Air represents the mind, thought and the ability to process information. It encourages learning, problem solving and mental agility.
Freedom & Movement: As it flows freely and is not bound by physical constraints. It reminds us to embrace change, adaptability, and the ability to move forward in life.
Balance & Harmony: In holistic design, balance and harmony among the elements are key principles. Air contributes to this balance by providing a sense of lightness, buoyancy, and spaciousness that complements the other elements.
Change & Adaptabillity: The ever-shifting nature of air symbolizes flexibility, dynamism, and the ability to adjust to new situations.
The Citizenry
2. Practical Applications:
Natural Light & Ventilation: Spaces that facilitate the flow of fresh air through windows, doors, and vents, not only improves air quality and ventilation but also creates a sense of openness and connection to the outdoors.
Indoor Plants: Having indoor plants in your home oxygenate the space! Plants not only release oxygen but also help purify the air by removing toxins, thus promoting a healthier indoor environment.
Aromatherapy: Utilize essential oils or natural scents to enhance air quality and create a pleasant atmosphere. Aromatherapy can also influence mood and well-being, contributing to a holistic experience.
Air Purification Systems: Install air purifiers or filtration systems to remove pollutants and allergens from the air, ensuring a cleaner and healthier indoor environment.
Cross Ventilation: Layouts that encourage cross ventilation allows air to circulate freely throughout the space. This helps maintain a comfortable temperature and reduces the need for artificial cooling or heating.
Natural Materials: Try using more natural and breathable materials such as cotton, linen, and wool for furnishings and decor. These materials allow air to flow freely, contributing to a lighter and more airy ambiance.
Open Spaces: Create open floor plans with minimal barriers to encourage air circulation and a sense of spaciousness. Avoid clutter and overcrowding to maintain a sense of openness and freedom within the space.
Sense of Self bathhouse by setsquare studio
santa clara 1728 guest house by manuel aires mateus
D house by marston architects
To incorporate a sense of flow and spaciousness, I would recommend decluttering your space twice a year (spring cleaning & winter wellness). If it’s overwhelming start out small, for example, start with your desk, a closet, or a single shelf. Starting small allows you to see progress quickly and keeps you motivated to continue.
Use the "Four-Box Method", as you go through your belongings, use four boxes or bins labeled: Keep, Donate/Sell, Trash, and Relocate. This method helps you make quick decisions about each item and prevents you from getting bogged down by indecision.
Follow the "One In, One Out" Rule, for every new item you bring into your home, try to let go of one similar item. This helps prevent clutter from building up again in the future. Before buying something new, ask yourself if you truly need it and if you're willing to part with something else to make space for it.
“Outer order contributes to inner calm.” - Gretchen Rudin
Another important element in keeping the air in your home clean is to reduce the amount of toxic chemicals you bring into your home.
Choose natural cleaning products, there are plenty of environmentally freindly products right now at your local supermarket like Meyers Clean Day, Seventh Generation, Nature’s Promise, just to name a few. Here is an article on 7 ways to detox your home by the EWG (Environmental Working Group).
Check furniture and finish materials when bringing anything new into your space. Some furniture, paints and flooring materials can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs). For more information, refer to my blog post 7 questions you need to ask before buying furniture and 9 eco-friendly brands you need to know now.
By incorporating these strategies into your home, you can harness the element of air to create interior environments that not only look aesthetically pleasing but also promote health, well-being, and balance.
Here are a few items that I recommend that will contribute to the air quality in your home.
Vitruvi Diffuser
In my opinion this is one of the top aromatherapy diffusers out there. It’s ceramic and has a beautiful sculptural shape. Colors come in white, terracotta and graphite. Stone essential oil diffuser scents rooms of up to 500 square-feet, making it perfect for bedrooms and living rooms.
Diffuserlove
If you are looking for a less expensive version this one from Diffuserlove is a similar version and also ceramic.
PURA D’OR
Essentail Oil Set with wood box
(lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, tea tree and more)
HEPA Filter Air Purifer. If you like good design and in the market for an air purifier, it doesn’t get any better that Dyson.
DISCLAIMER: Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.
If your interested in how to bring the fire element into your home, check out my previous blog post.
