Maintaining Calmness for Proper Prostate Health
HenryFord.com
Dr. Michael Ryan
Mr. Reginald Pittman
Your environment affects your prostate health. Your home should reflect a space of peace. Creating a feng shui environment is one way to be at peace in your home. Being organized, having scents of peace and love, and sounds that you adore are all calming. Here are seven ways to create an atmosphere of peace in your environment.
Let in natural sunlight. “Exposure to natural sunlight is a proven mood-booster,” says Dr. Ryan. “Daylight helps regulate circadian rhythms and boosts serotonin release, the chemical that helps us feel happy.” Keep the shades open during the daytime. During the winter, when the days are short, using bright artificial light—or even light therapy lamps—can be effective.
Maintain an organized space. “Spaces that are well organized and clean are less overwhelming,” says Dr. Ryan. “People who live in tidy environments often function better and become less stressed by their surroundings.” Use storage containers to prevent the accumulation of clutter, and have your caregiver help you keep it that way.
Play music that is soothing. “The right type of music promotes peace” says Reggie Pittman. Listening to soothing jazz, classical music, rhythm and blues… can be peaceful. The sounds in your environment should put you at ease. Sounds of calm water and mild birds are natural sounds that promote well being.
Use houseplants as décor. “Plants and flowers promote peacefulness,” Dr. Ryan says. “Having plants around you not only improves the air quality, but also reduces stress and improves mood. Connecting to nature can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.” Pick out a few hardy indoor plants to liven up your space, and they won’t even require much maintenance.
Add a pleasing, mild scent—or none at all. “The smell of an environment plays an important role in your mood and sense of well-being,” says Dr. Ryan. Aromatherapy is a common technique to create a serene space. Diffusing lavender or lemon essential oils can be nice options, but some people who undergo cancer treatment may develop a sensitivity to many smells. In that case, you may find that no odor at all is best for you.
Feature favorite colors. Color preferences are individual and often rooted in age and culture, so above all, feature colors you love. But research has also revealed the power some colors have on mood: sage greens promote relaxation and sapphire blues tend to be more energizing. If you’re looking for something to keep you calm, try earthy tones like cool greys and blues, which are more soothing and can help you feel more relaxed.
Hang beloved artwork on the walls. “Art is personal,” says Dr. Ryan. “Surround yourself with framed images you find comforting, whether that’s pictures of loved ones or paintings of landscapes.” No matter what it is, if it brings about positive emotions, it’s the right art for you.
When you put all of these components together, they can improve your overall health. They will help create a total sense of peace.
