Creating Zen at Home in Stressful Times

We are all aware that these are stressful times, no matter where you live or what you do for a living. So, what can we do to make life a little easier?

One key word is Zen.

No, you don't have to sit in a room, surrounded with candles, repeating the latest Gregorian chant, unless you want to. But creating a Zen environment is still a simple process with great results.

Incorporate Zen into your decor:

You don't have to completely embrace a Feng Shui lifestyle to create a relaxing environment.

* Use accent pieces to tie the Zen feeling into your home decor. Try traditional wall plaques with nature-inspired images such as trees, mountains, lotus blossoms or images that evoke serenity and gentle relaxation.

* Incorporate earthy and neutral tones with furnishings and flooring.

* Create as much natural light as possible by avoiding heavy window coverings.

Declutter is the answer: Your interior decorating efforts can create a sense of Zen at home in a number of ways, starting with the old adage, "A place for everything, and everything in its place".

* Only have one thing in one space - your computer desk is for the CPU, monitor and printer only. Pens and one or two books for reference are the exception.

* Buy a bookshelf and use it for just for books. If you have too many, use a library-style system for categorizing and alphabetizing titles.

* Create a workable file system where you can access what you need within 30 seconds. Place incoming faxes and letters with corresponding files as they arrive.

Creating Zen in just 15 minutes a day:

Have fun with this one. Buy an egg timer at the dollar store and for only 15 minutes at a time, tackle the often-overwhelming task of decluttering.

* Take one room, or even one corner of a room, and clear away all unnecessary items. You will feel better, guaranteed.

* Tidy up the kitchen while you are boiling the kettle for tea (or coffee). If the kitchen is already clean, spend the boiling time tidying the living room.

* Throw away any outdated bottles or questionable products in your fridge. Remember: when in doubt, throw it out.

Find some time for yourself:

Beyond having a physically clean environment around you, taking time for yourself is another key to living a Zen life.

* Take a 20-minute walk. You can choose to listen to music, inspiration tapes or just the natural sounds around you.

* Make lists for things you have to do, and celebrate crossing them off when completed.

* Meditate for 10 to 15 minutes each day.

* Be thankful for all the positive things in your life now, and the things to come.