What is sensehacking?
The phrase, which was coined by Charles Spence in his book ‘Sensehacking: How to use the power of your senses for happier healthier living’, steers us to make the home our own personal oasis using the power of aroma and touch to boost wellbeing.
According to Spence, by using our senses - sight, sound, taste, touch and smell - we can ‘hack’ a healthier and happier environment, ensuring less stress, better sleep, more productivity, and a greater feeling of joy.
Our Inchcolm Green development in Aberdour, Fife, is the perfect example in showcasing how colour can have a calming effect within the home.
The stunning showhome, styled by interior designer Eileen Keeson from Envision, is filled with beautiful greens and soft, warm neutral tones, guaranteed to make you feel relaxed after a long day at work.
A word from the expert
Eileen said: “Sensehacking is the perfect way to make a home your own as it allows you to really personalise your interiors, not just to what you like but to how you feel. Giving your home an update when it comes to décor is the ideal place to start your sensehacking journey.
Eileen’s top tips for sensehacking your home…
Bright warm tones are back
By using bright, warm tones, your home is guaranteed to feel warm, cosy and inviting after a long day. This can be done by using accessories, such as candles or ornaments. Another great way to achieve an air of energy to your home is by painting a wall or adding some bold wallpaper to give a pop - who says dopamine dressing can’t be used in your décor?
A calming colour palette in your home can help perfectly balance comfort and calm, especially if you have trouble sleeping.
“Paint hues such as soft yellows, warm oranges, natural pinks and blues and greens are all shades that are known to help you relax and deliver restful ambiance.
“Meanwhile, using shots of colour such as Pantone’s Colour of the Year 2023, Viva Magenta, can add vibrance and energy to your living space.
Soft edges are for relaxing
In order to help hack the senses, soft edges are key. By incorporating soft, rounded edges into your furniture and soft furnishings, you are keeping the flow and an air of relaxation throughout your home. Think circular sofas and chairs, combined with large fluffy cushions and rugs.
Use smell to help unwind
Smell is another big part of the sensehacking journey, and it’s amazing which smells can make a difference when you are trying to relax, focus or energise. Scent can unlock a wide range of memories and emotions, so by using aromatherapy, candles and diffusers, you can create a relaxed environment or feel more energised and productive. For sleep and relaxing, use lavender, lemongrass, ylang ylang, jasmine, rose and vanilla. Scents such as sage, peppermint, cedarwood and lemon will all help you feel invigorated and also helps with concentration.
Crisp sheets to help sleep
As we all know, sleep is so important for helping us feel more relax, so embracing sensehacking in your bedroom is an absolute must! To help aid a great sleep, why not invest in some new bedding? Think about getting some crisp white sheets and a nice cosy throw blanket for extra warmth.
“By sensehacking your home, you can make it a place of comfort - your very own haven.”
Do you have more tips? Share them on Instagram with us @calahomes.
