Simple decorating tips can transform home into relaxing retreat

If you live with the stresses and demands of a 24-7 world, turning your home into a sanctuary and a haven takes on new meaning. Decorating your space is much more than bringing in furniture and accessories to fill the spot. The way you arrange those pieces and how you combine the various elements helps define the restorative qualities for those who live there.

The concept is simple, really. How do you dress your windows to maximize light? How do you arrange furniture to create relaxing zones? How do you display collections to kindle memories of times that were fun?

Look at the light sources in your rooms. Are your windows dressed simply to welcome the morning sun? On a gray winter day, does as much light as possible come in? You'll be amazed at how that affects your mood. Does late-day sunlight encourage you to slow down and relax a bit? Check to see if lamps and other artificial lighting pieces are placed to make rooms seem more comfortable. If rooms seem dark and dreary, consider simple sheers to filter bright sun, but still let in the glow. Keep windows unadorned completely for maximum light. Use blinds attached to the window frame for nighttime privacy.

To enhance the glimmer, use candles to soften the scene. Cluster them on trays for greater impact. Have fun with old lighting pieces, such as adding a chandelier in a surprising place, the bathroom.

With those candles, you can add fragrance as well. From exotic essential oils such as patchouli or ylang-ylang to ordinary aromas such as fresh linen, baking cinnamon rolls, or fresh-squeezed lemon, there are candles and potpourri mixes to please your nose. Or, bring in fresh flowers in your favorite scents to welcome guests or to lift your spirits.

For soothing sounds in your home, consider a gently gurgling fountain or a CD softly playing your favorite background tunes.

Give serious thought to how to envision your bedroom. Make it your personal space. Surround yourself with things you love -- favorite lotions, special photographs, a good light, and good magazines and books to restore your strength and give you some "alone time." Make it a cocoon against the outside world.

"Take me away" is the purpose of today's bath. Turn it into an at-home spa with flowers, bath oils, candlelight, sumptuous towels and a comfortable spa neck pillow. If you're a shower person, look into a massage shower head for maximum rejuvenation.

Around your home, create welcoming spots to encourage relaxation or reading. To diminish stress, designate a spot, such as a filing cabinet or desk, to organize clutter.

In temperate climates, bring the outdoors inside and merge the two areas. Arrange furniture to take advantage of breezes, or turn a screened porch into another room, full of garden items to create a restful spot. Or, make an open porch feel like a room with comfortable seating and a weather-resistant rug. It will become a magnet spot for neighbors passing by to sit and visit with you.

Get organized throughout your home. Use baskets, shelves, and apothecary jars to put things in order. You'll be amazed at how much less stress you'll feel when things are in order.

Make your home personal by displaying favorite vintage and new photos. And don't tuck away trip souvenirs for the future. Put them out now and enjoy them. They'll remind you of good times and will encourage conversation with guests.

Display your collections together for greater impact. They will give you a sense of comfort every time you look at them.

Do you collect dollhouse furniture pieces or small boxes? Especially with small items, they will look more interesting with other like pieces.

Hang a group of hand mirrors on a bathroom wall, for example.

Delight in the details of your life that you love. Amazingly, they will help to simplify and put into perspective some of the details you don't care for as much.