Years ago, I found myself captivated by a series of near-death experience (NDE) videos. These stories were like windows into another world, offering glimpses of what it might be like to cross over to the other side. But what struck me most wasn’t just the tales of white light or encounters with loved ones — it was the intriguing lessons and insights that these experiences held, lessons that seemed incredibly relevant to our everyday lives.
One of the common threads in these stories was how the people who had died could think of a loved one who had already passed away, and in an instant, that person would appear right before them. Or, in some cases, they would be whisked away to the presence of the one they were thinking about, almost as if they had been transported through sheer will. Some described this phenomenon as a kind of leaning in. They would think about where they wanted to go, what they wanted to experience, or whom they wanted to see, and by simply leaning in the direction of their thoughts, they would find themselves there in the blink of an eye.
As Above, So Below: Bringing Heaven to Earth
Leaning in isn’t just some otherworldly concept reserved for the afterlife. We can apply this to our everyday lives right here and now. What if life is as simple as focusing on what you want, leaning into it, and letting the universe take care of the rest? Shifting your mindset from “I need to control every detail” to “I can trust the process” feels like such a relief, doesn’t it?
Could life actually be that easy?
Could designing our home be that simple?
Let’s explore how this works in the real world — specifically, in your home. The idea of harmonious living is all about balance, alignment, and flow. It’s creating a space where everything feels connected, from your surroundings to your mental and emotional state.
Leaning into Your Home’s Harmony
Your home isn’t just a physical space; it’s an extension of you. It’s where you start and end your day, where you relax, recharge, and most importantly, where you can just be yourself. By leaning into the idea of harmony, you can transform your home into a sanctuary that reflects your values, sparks joy, and supports your overall well-being.
Your Home is a Mirror
Ever notice how your home mirrors what’s going on inside of you? It tells your story, holds your memories, and serves as the backdrop for your life. When your surroundings are aligned with your inner self, everything feels… right. It’s not only about having a well-decorated space — it’s about creating an environment that nurtures you physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Decluttering: Make Space for What Matters
Let’s start with decluttering. And not just physical stuff, but the mental and emotional clutter too. When our homes are cluttered, our minds follow suit. It’s overwhelming, stressful, and definitely not harmonious. By letting go of what no longer serves us — whether that’s old clothes, unused gadgets, or even outdated beliefs — we make space for the things that truly matter.
Imagine walking into a room that feels open, organized, and free of distractions. It’s not just visually pleasing; it’s mentally freeing. By clearing out the old, you’re inviting new energy, new ideas, and new possibilities into your life.
Designing for Flow and Connection
Once you’ve decluttered, it’s time to think about how your space flows. A harmonious home has a natural flow, with furniture arranged to promote relaxation and connection. This is where “leaning in” really comes to life.
Consider how you can arrange your space to boost positive energy. Maybe you could position your furniture to encourage conversation. Or arrange your bed to face the door, symbolizing openness to new opportunities. Adding plants, water features, or other natural elements can also enhance the energy, making your space feel more vibrant and alive.
Color and Light: Set the Mood
Ever notice how specific colors or lighting can totally change the vibe of a room? Color and light are key to creating harmony in your home. Different colors evoke different emotions, so choose hues that match the mood you want to set. Soft, neutral tones like beige or gray create calm, while warm colors like red or yellow bring energy. Cool tones like blue and green? They’re perfect for creating a soothing, peaceful atmosphere.
Lighting matters, too. Natural light is the best, hands down. It makes any space feel more open and connected to the outside world. But if natural light is limited, soft, warm lighting can create a cozy and inviting vibe. Avoid harsh, fluorescent lights — they can make even the most beautiful room feel cold.
Creating a Mental and Emotional Sanctuary
Your home should be a place where you can think clearly, focus on your goals, and recharge mentally and emotionally. That means creating spaces that support mental clarity, creativity, and relaxation.
Consider carving out a “reflection corner” — a quiet nook for journaling, meditating, or simply sitting silently. Surround it with things that inspire you, whether books, art, or a comfy chair. This is your mental sanctuary, a place to recharge your mind and soul.
Nurturing Emotional Harmony
Your home should feel emotionally safe and supportive. Consider how you can make your living spaces more inviting and warm—not just for guests but also for yourself. Cozy blankets, intimate seating areas, and personal touches like family photos or meaningful art can transform your space into a true emotional sanctuary.
This is where emotional healing happens. Your bedroom can be a place for restful sleep, while your bathroom might be your go-to spot for self-care rituals. It’s all about creating spaces that allow you to unwind, heal, and connect with your emotions.
Leaning into Spiritual Harmony
Finally, let’s talk about creating a space for spiritual growth. This doesn’t necessarily mean religious practices — it could be anything that helps you connect with something greater than yourself, whether that’s meditation, yoga, or spending time in nature.
Creating a sacred space in your home — a small altar, a meditation cushion, or even just a particular corner filled with things that are meaningful — can be a powerful way to nurture your spiritual life. Bringing natural elements indoors, like plants or crystals, also helps foster that sense of groundedness and connection.
Lean into Harmony
Creating a harmonious home is an ongoing process, but it’s so worth the effort. By leaning into the idea of harmony — and embracing what you truly value — you’re not just decorating a space; you’re designing a life that feels balanced, joyful, and deeply connected to who you are.
Your home reflects your inner world. The more you invest in creating a space that resonates with your true self, the more you’ll experience peace, fulfillment, and harmony in your life.
So, take that first step. Lean in. Let your home become your sanctuary, and watch as that harmony spills over into every other area of your life. That, my friend, is the true art of harmonious living.
