Your home should be a place where stress is reduced, where your soul is nurtured, where you feel comfortable and welcomed. Your home should be your sanctuary. No matter how chaotic things are at home, with a few simple steps you can create a more comforting environment around you - start by gradually implementing the following into your household:

Bring the outdoors in. Green plants, cut flowers and blooming bulbs, as well as pieces of wood, rocks and other natural elements can create a feeling of nature indoors.
Surround your senses with beauty. Artwork, fragrance, smooth textures, and calming sounds all provide a pleasant environment in which to relax.
Set aside a room or area for peace and calm. A place for spiritual reflection and meditation can provide shelter from noise and distraction.
Clean out clutter. A low-maintenance home is refreshing after a day of hectic meetings, errands and chores. Fewer items can mean less frustration.

Take a moment to visit the Mind/Body/Spirit section on DrWeil.com for more ideas on relieving stress and encouraging relaxation

Adapted from Ask Dr. Weil, http://www.drweil.com Reprinted with permission

As printed in the VHL Family Forum 14:1, April/May 2006. For permission to reprint, please contact VHL Family Alliance, editor@vhl.org. Further information is available from the VHL Family Alliance, info@vhl.org.