Nurturing Your Space, Nurturing Yourself

Sometimes, all it takes is moving a single piece of furniture to breathe new life into your home—and your mind. This weekend, we swapped an unused gray IKEA couch for an old gray desk from the house owner's storage. The desk is far from stylish, but the moment I sat down, I felt the magic: I finally had my own workspace. With a mountain view. Every writer's dream!

Staying sane can feel challenging in a world full of constant information streams. But it's the small things that make the big difference. That simple switch—couch out, desk in—created much-needed physical and mental boundaries between my project work and time for rest. After a few rough days, it helped me regain a sense of control over my time and energy.

Home as a Sanctuary

Our homes are more than just places to eat and sleep—they are sanctuaries, offering refuge and renewal. This made me think: before building relationships with new places and spaces, shouldn't we start by reflecting on our relationship with the place we return to every day?

For me, home is a small wooden apartment, cozy and warm, where I wake up every morning to a stunning glacier view. Each time I walk in, I'm filled with gratitude—especially when I think of all those losing their homes to bombs, natural disasters, and other crises as I type this. The fragility of "home" deepens my appreciation for this space, even if it's temporary.

It's a reminder that home is something we should never take for granted.

The Political and Spiritual Relationship with Home

Like many of us, I see my home as an oasis—a space where I've built a world of care, where we recharge, envision, and reconnect with our inner selves after long days. Homes aren't just about comfort; they shape our well-being and influence how we show up in the world. When we nurture our spaces, they nurture us in return, creating a cycle of care that sustains us.

Yet, the reality is that housing has become more expensive and inaccessible for many. Our relationship with home is not just personal and spiritual—it's political. Rising real estate and rent prices leave many struggling to secure stable housing, affecting their sense of security, belonging, and mental health. From a Western perspective, you might question if shared living is the future.

Shared Spaces or Personal Space?

Growing up in a squatted house, I experienced the value of community living—support, connection, and resource-sharing. But I know that not everyone thrives in communal settings. Personal space is just as vital as connection. How about you? Do you prefer personal space, or do you find comfort in shared spaces?

I sometimes wonder if adopting a more nomadic, less ownership-driven lifestyle could create a better world. But, as with most things, I believe the key is balance—between community and personal space, rootedness, and flexibility.

Rethinking Spaces for a Regenerative Future

Working in hospitality, I constantly think about the spaces we create for others. I've thought about renting out tourism apartments. I'm passionate about hosting people - and it's lucrative, but what if we saw living spaces as more than just assets from which to profit? What if we viewed them as sanctuaries—spaces that offer safety, peace, and nourishment—not just for us but the environment and community? How would this shift our approach to housing and hospitality?

In a world full of uncertainty, feeling secure in our homes is more important than ever. It shouldn't be a luxury but a fundamental right. Yet, even as we push for systemic changes, there is something we can all do on a personal level: turning our immediate spaces into places of giving and receiving.

Making Your Space Work for You

So, how do we make our homes places of regeneration? It's not about perfect furniture or the right décor. It's about creating a space that reflects who you are and helps you feel grounded. Creating a home where you feel nourished is an act of self-love. Small changes can have a significant impact. Here are a few ideas on how to begin:

• Declutter your space, declutter your mind: A tidy, organized space brings mental clarity. Start with small shifts that make a big difference, like sorting out a drawer or organizing your folders.
• Bring nature in: A small plant can bring life, energy, and a sense of calm to any room. Our two plants have become part of the family, adding personality and warmth to the living room.
• Create atmosphere: Lighting, music, or a comforting scent can instantly transform how you feel in your space. For me, sunlight and music set the tone.
• Rearrange your furniture: Moving a piece of furniture can create a fresh perspective and help redefine how you use your space. It's an easy way to bring new energy into the room.
• Create mindful routines: Establish daily or weekly rituals, like morning coffee by the window or a sunset meditation. These routines help you form a stronger connection with your space.

Home Beyond Your Four Walls

Regeneration begins at home, but its impact reaches far beyond our walls. The way we design and care for our spaces reflects how we treat ourselves; home shapes our mindset, influences how we travel, and affects how we connect with the world. As we rethink our relationship with our homes, let's ask: How can we create environments that nourish us and contribute to a more mindful and sustainable world? After all, as travelers often say, home is wherever we are—so let's make sure that wherever is a place rooted in care, intention, and regeneration.

Your Turn: How are you creating a mindful space?

Now, I'd love to hear from you! How are you feeling at home? What kind of energy does your space bring to you? Have you made any small changes that help you feel more grounded or relaxed? Whether adding a plant, creating a cozy corner, rearranging your furniture, or decluttering, I'd love to hear what's working for you. 

Feel free to reply to this email with your thoughts or a photo of your space. Let's inspire each other to create homes that reflect the peaceful, intentional lives we wish to live. 

Thank you for joining me on this journey of imagination, creation, and regeneration. I'm excited to keep sharing my stories and learnings with you. If you'd like to support my work, feel free to leave a comment, follow me on Instagram @threemindstravel, or share this newsletter if it resonates with you.

With much love,

Zaza

Threeminds Travel