13 Eco-Friendly Bamboo Products We Use Daily

I have always liked bamboo plants and the products made from them. I think it’s such a beautiful and unique plant. After I started researching how we can live a more sustainable life, I discovered that bamboo has so many properties which I did not know before. Now I’m just in love with it.

The journey to a more sustainable and eco-friendly life is a process that takes time and is made with little but consistent steps. Nowadays, it’s easier to have a cosy home and also care for the environment. We just need to see where we can make a few changes.

So If you’ve wondered how to start, the answer is very simple – start with stuff you use every day. For example, you can replace your plastic toothbrush with a biodegradable bamboo toothbrush.

 

 

More about Bamboo

There are many products made of bamboo, ranging from household items, clothing, cosmetics or jewellery and ending with buildings. There is even bamboo honey – the possibilities are endless.

​​As a material, bamboo is much more efficient than wood – it grows more quickly, requires little water, and doesn’t require any pesticides.

Bamboo is one of the most eco-friendly plants. It is a super sustainable alternative due to its naturally renewing properties:

  • anti-fungal
  • hardwearing
  • anti-bacterial
  • earth-friendly
  • odour resistant
  • 100% biodegradable
  • helps rebuild eroded soil
  • regrows to its adult plant size in 3 to 5 years
  • produces 35% more oxygen than similar plants
  • requires far less water than similar plants (e.g. cotton)

Due to the fact that the production is more cost-effective than other similar materials, the items made from bamboo are much cheaper.

Also, bamboo forests are extremely valuable to the environment. They lower carbon levels, produce oxygen, control soil erosion, provide organic material, and conserve biodiversity. Isn’t it easy to fall in love with it?

So, if you need a little inspiration, here are some examples of bamboo products that we use every day for a more minimal and low waste home.

 

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1. Bamboo (electric) Toothbrush

I think the first bamboo product I bought was a bamboo toothbrush. Recently, we discovered an electric bamboo toothbrush that totally changed everything. Christian and I are super excited about them. 

They are made with compostable bamboo heads and plant-based bristles and are a true revolution for those who want more powerful teeth clean.

toothbrush-bamboo

 

2. Breakfast Board made of Bamboo

We changed the plastic mats with these beautiful personalised bamboo boards that make our meals more joyful and lovely.

Breakfast-board

 

3. Exfoliating Body Brush

Dry brushing clears pores in the exfoliation process. It also helps to detoxify the skin by increasing blood circulation and promoting lymph drainage. 

In the beginning, dry brushing your skin can feel a bit rough, but after a few brushes, your body starts to relax and to enjoy this healthy and beneficial pre-bath habit. My body loves it every time. 

body-brush

 

 

4. Bamboo Wooden Laptop Stand 

I spend a lot of time on the computer due to the nature of my work. Last year, I had some shoulder problems due to an incorrect position in front of the computer, so I started investing more in things that could help me be more comfortable when working.  

One of these things is this bamboo laptop stand that gives me a more ergonomic viewing height. I chose this model because it has a beautiful design, is ultra-lightweight, easy to use and easy to carry with me when I’m working remotely.

 

5. Japanese Bamboo Wind Chime 

I like to use different objects that can help me go deeper and have a more profound experience in my meditation practice. For example, I started using the sounds of chimes a year ago and each time I hear them, a feeling of peace and gratitude runs through my whole body.

These chakra healing wind chimes are specially created with sound healing frequencies to heal a specific chakra and are also made from bamboo.

Bamboo-Chakra-Sound-Healing

 

6. Montessori Wooden Toddler Knife and Cutting Board

An important aspect of kids’ development is teaching them to be independent. We noticed Arun’s interest in helping us in the kitchen, so we bought him this Montessori wooden knife for his birthday. Since then, he always cuts his fruits by himself and enjoys the process every time. 

It is very important when you encourage independence in our kids but take into account the child’s age so they don’t handle tasks above their age. Each age has its freedoms and limitations.

Safe-knife-Kids

 

 

7. Bamboo Side Lamp

I have had this lamp for six years now, I brought it with me from Romania when I moved to Denmark, and I still enjoy it every single time I use it.  Each time I turn on the light in the bedroom, a sense of peace and cosiness surrounds me. The light it emits is perfect for relaxation and peace of mind. I adore it.

bamboo-lamp

 

8. Reusable Cotton Rounds with a Bamboo Jar  

I use make-up occasionally, but I still clean my face at the end of each day. It’s incredible how much dust can stick to our faces daily. These reusable cotton rounds are so soft to touch and the jar looks lovely in my bathroom. 

bamboo-pads-+-jar

 

9. Dynamic Copper-Nail

Meditating on dynamic nail boards can improve emotional and physical strength, focus and overall wellness. According to Chinese and Indian Ayurveda medicines, feet and hands have hundreds of acupressure points responsible for energy flow, relaxation, and the entire body’s health. 

BAMBOO-Dynamic-Copper-Nail-Boards

 

10. Wall hanging Baskets

I use these baskets in our bedroom as support for flowers, on the balcony for lights to make the balcony cozier, in the bathroom to store my brushes and hair ties and in the kitchen for towels. The colour and beautiful design make them fit everywhere with style. 

basket

 

 

11. Organic Bamboo Bed Sheet set 

Sleep is an essential part of our well-being. It’s the time we regenerate the most. 

I discovered the organic bamboo bed sheets recently and we are so pleased with them. They are made from 100% premium and organic bamboo fibre and are insatiably soft, cooling and moisturizing. Me and Christian love to tuck into them for a sweet and quality sleep. 

The fabrics are Oeko-Tex certified for chemical safety and tested in an SGS lab for antibacterial properties.

bamboo-sheets

 

12. Natural Bamboo Drinking Cup 

Our daily smoothies look lovely and taste so good in these bamboo drinking cups. Arun is the biggest fan of them because they are easy to use and feel so fine to touch. 

bamboo-cup

 

13. Bamboo Suction Plate + Bamboo Suction Bowl + Spoon + Bib 

We couldn’t opt for a more suitable dining set for Arun. They are made from beautiful bamboo, kinder to the planet and nicer for little hands to touch, easy to wash and resistant to shocks. We all know how children love to experiment and that can be professional quality controllers.

Bamboo-suction-plate

 

Final Words

Now more than ever, it’s easier to find products that are affordable and made from sustainable materials that are good for our health and also have respect for this wonderful planet we live on. We can all make a difference and create a greener world today by switching to sustainable bamboo products and we can always start with little steps.

 

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How are you contributing to a healthier ecosystem? Share your thoughts with this community. We are more than willing to find out new ways in which we can improve the quality of our lives. 

 

Remember to love yourself,

Mushroom Dana signature

 

 

Creating a Montessori Bedroom. DIY Ideas

Arun moved into his bedroom and we have finally gotten our bed back. I can’t believe how much space our room has and how long a night can be. Montessori bedroom

After we moved into our new apartment, it took us a few days to arrange his room. Having days of seeing us entering his room and not knowing what was happening inside made Arun more curious and enthusiastic.

The reveal correlated with his second anniversary, so the bedroom was also a part of his present. His reaction was worth all the wait and work that Christian and I put into it. You can see how it all went on my Instagram account, where I posted his first moments and reactions. 

I appreciate Maria Montessori philosophy. I got so much of my inspiration from there. Other sources of inspiration that I got regarding my overall approach to Arun’s development were gotten from these great authors which I warmly recommend.

In this blog post, I will walk you through some basic information regarding Maria Montessori principles and how to apply them when planning to arrange your kid’s room. Asides from this, I will also mention some elements that I consider to be important for the development of our children.

 

 

Maria Montessori philosophy Montessori bedroom

Maria Montessori was an Italian doctor who believed that education should prepare a person for all aspects of life. Her philosophy consists of nurturing each child’s natural desire for knowledge, understanding, and respect.

She inspired creativity and independence in the classroom and at home by encouraging teachers and parents to create spaces where everything is within a child’s reach, even from a very young age. The bedroom, the kitchen, bathroom, living room, and entrance can be adapted so children can feel welcome and independent. 

There’s no need to be an interior designer or a Montessori expert to create a beautiful and inspiring bedroom. You just need some simple tips that will trigger your creativity. The most important thing to have in mind is that simplicity and naturalness are the keys.

The primary use of a bedroom is for dressing, changing, meditating and sleeping. It is a safe place where the child can find comfort, peace, harmony, and inspire independence — a place where we all recharge and connect with ourselves.

 

Colours and paint Montessori bedroom

The colours and paint to be used need to be peaceful and harmonious for the bedroom to invite such qualities in our children. For instance, neutral and natural tones are preferred because they promote a sense of calm. In addition, the lighting should be soft and warm, with minimal glare.

Even though I’m not a painter, I decided to try my luck and paint Arun’s room. Pinterest is a source of inspiration for me, so I did my research and started the preparations. I chose to paint mountains because they are a significant part of our life. Also, I thought it would be easy and fast to make them, which was, to some extent.

First, I drew some straight lines in the shape of a mountain with decorative masking tape. Then I painted the inside of the figures. Unfortunately, I made the mistake of buying a tape that was too wide, so the distance between the mountains was a bit too big. Because of this, after I finished, I had to correct all sides, so it took a bit longer than I had in mind. 

Painting - children bedroom

mountains children bedroom

 

If you decide to make these shapes and want your mountains to be pasted together like in my final result, you need to make one mountain with one colour. Then, wait for it to dry completely, apply the tape right on the dried mountain’s interior line and paint the other mountain with a different colour. 

For the moon, I used one pin, a thread and a pencil. First, I tied the pencil to one end of the thread and the pin to the other end. Next, I placed the pin where I wanted the moon to be and made a circle using the pencil. After this, I adjusted the size of the thread according to how big I wanted the moon to be. Finally, I applied the paint two times. 

What I used:

  • 4 Paint boxes 0,70 L (I only used 45% of the green paint for the mountains, 20% of the light colour for the other mountains, and 5% for the moon)
  • Brushes of different sizes
  • 2 Paint Roller Tray
  • 2 paint rollers
  • Paper to cover the floor 
  • 3 Decorative Masking Tapes of different sizes
  • A thread
  • A pencil
  • A pin

Tip – after I applied the tape, I dabbed the tape with a damp towel to make it stick better on the sides. In this way, the lines came out straight, and the paint didn’t go under the tape.

 

 

The bed

A floor bed is an essential part of the Montessori bedroom. There are a lot of brands that have started producing gorgeous and creative floor beds. But if you are a little handy, I encourage you to try making your child’s bed by yourself. Floor beds enable freedom of movement, independence, and mobility which eventually teach kids the freedom of thought.

After we researched for some days, Christian and I decided that it would be a great experience to craft Arun’s bed. We found some ideas on Pinterest, decided on the measurement and started building it. We chose to make a tent-shaped bed.

What we used:

  • Nine pieces of wood cut to size (the dimensions depend on the size of the mattress)
  • A wood saw
  • Some screws 
  • 12 metal corners
  • Paint

It took Christian about four hours to make it, including mounting, and it took me about one and a half hours to paint it. I applied the paint twice.

tent bed

 

Changing and dressing area Montessori bedroom

We placed all Arun clothes, diapers, socks, and blankets within his reach. When having clothes within arm’s reach, children develop a sense of responsibility and independence. It can also help you because your child will be more than happy to go and choose his socks. For instance, I discovered that every time he picks his clothes, he is much more cooperative and willing to dress without resistance.

We have a big mirror in our wardrobe, but we decided to place one in his bedroom. When I told him that he would have his mirror, he was super excited. So now, every time he wants to see something for himself, he goes straight there. I even caught him a few times talking to himself in the mirror. It was adorable. 

For kids under 18 months, the mirror works as a cognitive concept. They can see the cause and effects of their movements. With time they will make sense of themselves in relation to the child they see in the mirror.

Montessori mirror

Montessori mirror

Montessori mirror

 

 

Play and movement Montessori bedroom

In a Montessori bedroom, the toys are carefully curated with limited but inspiring choices. Natural materials, life inspired toys and books, natural colours, and textures. 

At the moment, we placed in Arun’s room a wooden tractor, a wooden skittle he received from his aunt, a music box, a wooden whirligig, a wooden puzzle and a toolbox where we place shells, pinecones or rocks we find in our journeys outside. Also, we put some stuffed animals; a giraffe, a jellyfish, a hedgehog and Pluto, the bear he sleeps with. Besides toys, we placed a few books near his bed.

We change his books and toys every 7–14 days. In this way, there’s always something fresh and exciting to capture his imagination and interests. However, he does have a book that is his favourite, Milton’s Secret by Eckhart Tolle, which always remains.  

If you don’t know where to start, you can check out Lovevery’s Montessori-based subscription box. They send beautiful toys that target various ages and stages once every two months.

Montessori toys

Montessori toys

Montessori books

 

Altar

This is not among the Montessori philosophy. But it is something I consider essential for our kid’s emotional and spiritual development. It doesn’t matter what you believe in or how you choose to name this supreme force that holds the space for us – God, Buddha, Jesus, Krishna, you name it. 

Placing a little shelf with elements that instil a sense of peace, gratitude and humbleness will teach our kids these values that are much needed. It can be anything: a flower, incense, crystals, a picture of a deity, anything that is a representation of this magnificent energy. I believe this will help our children for the rest of their lives. 

I have mornings when Arun sees me meditating, then goes into his room, picks up his crystal and sits beside me in a lotus pose. It only takes one breath, but the feeling is priceless.

A part of our bedtime routine is to clear the home with Palo Santo. This action calms him and makes a smoother transition to bedtime. He takes his Palo Santo and starts blessing and cleaning his toys, the kitchen, the hanger, the shoes, the plants and everything he sees. 

Everything that involves fire – incense, palo santo, sage, candles – needs to be done under your careful supervision. 

Altar

 

 

Other

I also placed a children laundry basket in his room, some pictures with our families, a speaker and plants. 

Children want to learn and to helps us in any way they can. This is an essential part of their development, so encouraging their adorable efforts will significantly impact their independence. For example, it is cute to see Arun taking his dirty clothes and staking them into the laundry basket.

The speaker makes the atmosphere in the room more peaceful. We play in the background symphonic music, nature sounds or meditation music. The plants make the space more beautiful and alive, and they also clean the air. Christian taught Arun how to water the plants, and now he is the one who cares for them.

children laundry basket

Montessori bedroom

Montessori bedroom

Montessori bedroom

 

Costs 

We tried to minimise the expenses and be as friendly as possible with the ecosystem. There are things I never buy second hand, and there are things I buy second hand. In this case, the closet and the shelves were both second hand from Marketplace, and I managed to find them almost new. 

The two most expensive items, I believe, were the paint and the mattress. I paid for the colours and all the accessories somewhere around 200€. But I ended up painting in the other rooms with the same paint, so I believe a fair price only for Arun’s bedroom will be 100€.

If I have to give a rough estimate of how much it all costs, I believe it will be somewhere around 400 – 500€, including a new mattress and sheets. But the prices may vary from one country to another, and Denmark is an expensive country. So it is possible, depending on the region, to make all this with less. 

 

 

Final words

I have to say that I sincerely enjoyed organising Arun’s bedroom. The energy we invested in every element we made or intentionally settled in his bedroom gave a cosy and happy feeling to the room, which Arun instantly connected with. He slept there from the first night without any hesitation. 

I hope you found a bit of inspiration and that you will allow your creativity to express itself. You can create a loving and beautiful bedroom for your little one.

If you need more inspiration regarding this subject, you can follow my Pinterest board, where I pin new ideas constantly. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask me. I will be more than happy to answer them.

Montessori bedroom

Montessori bedroom

Montessori bedroom

Montessori bedroom

Montessori bedroom

Montessori bedroom, Montessori bedroom, Montessori bedroom, Montessori bedroom, Montessori bedroom, Montessori bedroom.

Remember to love yourself!
Mushroom Dana signature  

 

 

How to Make Your Home Cosy. Simple and Affordable Ideas

On this planet, our first home is our bodies, and our second home is the places in which our bodies live, our houses. I believe both our homes need the same care and affection because they can work together in offering us a balanced and happy life. Making our homes cosy is a process of self-discovery and self-love.

This article will give you some ideas about how you can make your home a cosy and peaceful sanctuary. We always return home to rest and recharge, so why not create a place where we can spend lots of time without feeling uncomfortable. I believe investing our time and effort in crafting a peaceful home is an investment in our well being — a kind of respect we want to offer ourselves. 

One of the most important aspects of having a cosy home is cleaning. Living in a clean house is crucial for our mental health, happiness and fulfilment. A study led by associate professor NiCole R. Keith, a research scientist and professor at Indiana University, found that people with clean houses are healthier and happier. 

Living in a calmer environment can significantly impact our day-by-day life, our state of mind, and all those around us. Here are some of the things I do that makes my home and my life balanced and peaceful. 

 

See 

Fresh flowers

Oh, flowers, one of my big loves. I dream of having fields of flowers, of walking among them every day and be mesmerised by their beauty and fragrance.

I like to have flowers in my home. They bring grace and beauty to every room they enter. One of the places I like to display them is at the front door. I read in a book that having flowers at the entrance makes a home welcoming.

I wanted to see if this was real, so I experimented and bought a bouquet of sunflowers and placed it in the hall at our apartment entrance. For two weeks, the first thing I saw when I was entering the house were those flowers. I have to say that every single day they brought a smile to my face and a feeling of peace. 

I encourage you to do this experiment and see what emotions you experience.

fresh flowers

 

Light

Adjust the light in your home for every situation. During the day, let natural light enter inside as much as possible. The light of the day has superpowers. It helps you have a clear mind, be more productive and happier. 

When night comes, opt for a soft, diffused light that works best in creating a cosy and warm atmosphere. Globe lamps are best to cast a diffused light in your space. 

 

 

Using little lights all around your home to help you move around, instead of the brighter ones, will maintain melatonin’s natural production.  Melatonin is a hormone primarily released by the pineal gland at night and has long been associated with sleep-wake cycle control. 

I use LED candles from Ikea that start at the same time every night and close after 6 hours. The candles give a cosy flickering light like a real candle and are a safe alternative for homes with children.

led lights for a cosy home

 
Art and a cosy home

I love art. I believe that art is one of the most beautiful gifts of this life. Art has the power to bring us to tears or to lift us in places in which we never even imagined being. When I say art, I mean everything that has the power to awaken something in you. 

A piece of art is something that you look at, which can stimulate emotions like joy, calmness, peace, sadness, rage, love, etc. I prefer to be surrounded by objects that awake my feelings, that vibrate at higher energy, although I also appreciate works that arouse oppressive emotions.

In my home, I have some objects that instil a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere. If you have an item that sparks in you this kind of feelings, I encourage you to give that object a place of honour. It will bring you more joy, and there is every chance that everyone who will see it will feel the same.

mandala art
 

 

Candles

All my life, I have been captivated by the warm and diffused light of candles. There is something in that light that invites meditation and calm almost in every circumstance. Arun and I made a habit of lighting 1-2 candles every night before bed, after turning off the lights. Our house instantly enters another state, and we, with it. We become calmer and slower in gestures and movements, and this is really nice. 

I also light up a candle in the morning when I set my intentions for the day. This ritual makes me more present, aware and grounds my intentions. 

Nowadays you can find varieties of candles, but that doesn’t mean that all of them are good. Some may have different toxic ingredients, like paraffin or maybe petroleum-derived. So I encourage you to use products that are 100% naturally made of soy wax or beeswax and are phthalate-free.

I like the candles from Brandt Kaarsen. Their candles are made of soy wax, premium oils and are 100% natural. 

brandt-kaarsen-candels

 

Hear

Nature sounds 

The best sounds are those you can find in nature. Nothing compares with the power, the deepness and the frequencies made by nature. Birds, ocean, rain, frogs and many other sounds alike are the best music for our ears. 

This is the music that always awakens our senses, brings us peace and instils the feeling of cosiness and grounding (a therapeutic technique that involves doing activities that “ground” or electrically reconnect you to the earth). A cosy home is perfectly blended with and in nature. Check out my article Grounding, When Was The Last Time You Walked Barefoot? if you are interested to know more about this practice.

 

 
Music

We don’t always have the opportunity to be surrounded by natural sounds. But we are fortunate enough to have great composers who have written incredible musical works that have the power to stimulate our senses. 

In our home, we listen to music all day long. We listen to nearly any genre, but we have an affinity for jazz and classical music when it comes to a cosy atmosphere. 

We believe that everything is more beautiful when you have the right kind of music that plays in the background. Check out this wonderful piece of art I absolutely adore Vivaldi Recomposed By Max Richter Spring

 

Taste

Homemade cakes

Nothing compares to a homemade healthy, and delicious dessert. Vegan or baked doesn’t matter. The process of making it with your own hands brings salt and pepper to the idea of cosiness. 

Making a dessert with your hands is like the essence of balance. On one hand, you have a rough process. You mix, you blend, you chop. And on the other hand, we have the beauty of the final product, the cake and the pleasure of tasting it. Don’t you believe that a slice of homemade dessert made with love and care can be a definition of cosiness? 

If you want something to inspire you, check out my Carrot Cake loaf recipe. It is healthy, beautiful and easy to make. It will only take you about one hour. 

carrot cake

 

Smell

A well-ventilated room brings out the life in any home, clears the space and refreshes us. This is the best smell a home can have, the smell of clean and fresh. 

I also believe that incense and oils can have tremendously beneficial properties, from cleaning the space to giving an extra graceful touch. In our home, we use Palo Santo and Sage for spiritual purification and energy cleansings. Once the wood sticks are burned, the smoke is believed to clear negative energy and restore calm emotions. 

Besides Palo Santo and Sage, we also use natural oils from Doterra and natural candles from Brandt Kaarsen, as I mentioned above. I encourage you to check them out. These brands are very nice. 

 

Touch

Soft slippers. When your feet are warm and every step you take feels like walking on marshmallows, life is more beautiful. Nothing compares with soft slippers. You might want to invest in some quality slippers that can bring you joy every time you walk around the house.

Blankets are the ultimate way to crank up the cosy factor in your home. I often sit barefoot under the blanket, and the feeling of a soft blanket on my feet relaxes me and brings me a sense of peace and gratitude. I like the blankets from Wool and the Gang because they are made from natural materials are eco-friendly, and made with care. 

blanket for a cosy home

 

Energies

Crystals

Semi-Precious stones have been used for protection, beauty or rituals for many, many years. In Feng Shui (an ancient Chinese practice covering 3,500+ years before the invention of the magnetic compass 206 B.C.E.-220 C.E.), crystals are widely used for their specific energy vibrations. 

Since I started connecting with crystals, I can say that my home is more grounded, balanced and positive. I adore having these remarkable beings around me. I feel I have a more cosy home thanks to them. If you don’t know how to work with semi-precious stones, see What Crystals To Have In Your Home And Where To Place Them.

Flower Agate Crystal

 

Animals

Animals have their energy that influences the space around them. To give an example, dogs are the kind of animals that provide energy. They are joyful, energetic and playful. On the opposite side, cats take the energy, low energy to be more precise. Cats are more grounded and peaceful and can absorb and transform static energies. In any case, I believe animals have the power to make us more loving and empathetic just by being near us. 

My best friend from the Animal Kingdom is Luna, a white, extremely beautiful and intelligent cat. I was lucky enough to be chosen as her human life partner. Between us was love at first sight, almost four years ago when I adopted her.

But I can’t say the same about the relationship between Christian and her. Christian never liked cats, and he was always more of a dog lover. Yet, I don’t know how this happened, but I look at them now, three years later, and they have such a beautiful relationship. He cares for her, buys her the best food, pets her, and they have many moments of affection. When I see them, my heart fills every time with happiness. 

cosy home

 
Plants

Besides bringing natural beauty to our homes, plants create balance and texture while also offering comfort and peace. Plants can clean the air we breathe by absorbing toxins in our homes and offering us a clean oxygen source. Furthermore, research shows that our heart rate gets lower just by gazing at plants, and our stress reduces.

Some of the best plants to have in our homes are Peace Lily, Snake Plant, Aloe Vera, Philodendron, Bamboo Palm because they can clean the air and absorb toxins like formaldehyde, benzene or trichloroethylene.

plants for a cosy home

 

Wrap It Up 

Little things are the ones that make the difference and help you have a cosy home. Paying attention to details like sound, smell or touch creates sensory imprintings that can give us a feeling of cosiness, joy and peace. 

Everything that comes from nature: stones, plants, animals have the power to ground your space and make it look alive and naturally beautiful. We have inspiration everywhere around us, and we really don’t need significant amounts of money to make our homes welcoming. We just need a bit of inspiration and imagination. Having a cosy home is a self-love statement we send into the universe and an invitation for peace, abundance and happiness. 

I hope all this information will serve you in making your home cosier and more welcoming. I would love to know how it went, so please share your results or thoughts in the comment box below. 

Thank you, and remember to love yourself

Mushroom Dana signature

What Crystals to Have in Your Home and Where to Place Them

Crystals are among the planet’s most delicate expressions of beauty, each possessing unique energies that irresistibly draw us toward them. I can recall countless moments spent in gem shops, completely captivated by a crystal’s allure, prompting me to bring it home.

My connection with crystals began several years ago, and since then, I’ve immersed myself in a myriad of gem varieties, each offering distinct shapes and colors. These stones often provided me with a sense of comfort, grounding, and an exhilarating connection.

One particularly enchanting experience involved a Smoky Quartz. It was just two years ago when I found myself photographing crystals at a friend’s shop. During the shoot, I held the Smoky Quartz in my hand, placing it on a table in front of the camera. As I peered through the lens, I was immediately drawn into a mesmerizing universe contained within that very quartz.

During that period, I experienced a profound sense of isolation and an intense yearning for guidance. When I encountered the crystal, its mesmerizing presence bestowed upon me an instant sensation of tranquility and humility. It was as if a spell had been cast, and I knew I had to bring the Smoky Quartz home with me. For me, that moment felt truly magical.

In addition to their aesthetic appeal, our homes also require balance and harmony. I firmly believe that crystals can play a significant role in achieving this equilibrium. Let’s now explore which gems are ideal for enhancing your home’s atmosphere and where to position them.

Smokey Quartz – front door

Smokey Quartz possesses a protective quality, adept at absorbing low-vibrational energies and purifying the surrounding space. Placing this crystal near your front door provides a potent shield, effectively absorbing any negative energies. It is widely regarded as a Feng Shui stone, known for its ability to instill balance and harmony within a household.

Furthermore, Smokey Quartz is a grounding crystal that intensifies the authenticity of its environment. Its presence can evoke a profound sense of grounding, as it actively engages with the Root Chakra.

Flower Agate – living room

Flower Agate, a recent discovery in Madagascar, made its way into my life not long ago, becoming an instant fascination when I stumbled upon it in a shop. Remarkably, its arrival coincided perfectly with the launch of my blog, enriching my journey.

This unique crystal is characterized by 3-dimensional plumes and cross-sections that resemble delicate flower-like patterns. True to its name, Flower Agate serves as a catalyst for uncovering and nurturing dormant talents within. Its gentle and soothing energy promotes inner peace and strength. Placing it in your living room, where you likely spend a substantial amount of time, allows for increased interaction and the development of a profound connection.

I frequently find myself irresistibly drawn to my Flower Agate, often engaging in brief meditation sessions with this captivating and dependable companion. Flower Agate has a direct resonance with your Heart Chakra.

Rose Quartz – bedroom 

Rose Quartz possesses a gentle yet potent feminine pink energy. This crystal is celebrated for embodying unconditional love and radiates grace, tenderness, comfort, and love. Furthermore, Rose Quartz wields the remarkable power to dissolve feelings of hate, violence, fear, and emotional wounds.

Within the home, the bedroom holds a unique and sacred space. It serves as a sanctuary of peace and serenity, a haven where we retreat to rest and rejuvenate—a place akin to a protective womb. Placing a Rose Quartz in your bedroom creates an inviting atmosphere for subtle and gentle energies, fostering nourishment and harmonizing various aspects of your well-being.

Rose Quartz establishes a direct connection with your Heart Chakra.

Citrine – kitchen

Often referred to as the “Vitamin C for the soul,” Citrine possesses the unique ability to stimulate the immune system and function as a soothing balm for the wounds of our soul. Comprised of silicon dioxide, a natural compound consisting of silicon and oxygen, Citrine can be found in abundance in the earth, water, plants, animals, and consequently within us. By introducing this remarkable “Light Maker” stone into your kitchen, you will cultivate a space imbued with health and harmony, benefiting not only your food and water but also your overall well-being.

Citrine’s profound connection lies with the Solar Plexus Chakra.

Clear Quartz – bathroom

Consider situating a piece of transparent quartz in your bathroom, where its purifying influence can cleanse both the energy and water. This remarkable crystal is adept at invigorating the immune system and harmonizing the body’s equilibrium. Given our proclivity to accumulate stress and fatigue throughout the day, our evening baths become a sanctuary of solace.

Frequently regarded as the “Master Healer,” Clear Quartz transcends its aesthetic allure, transforming your bathing space into a potent arena for relaxation and restoration. In its presence, you’ll not only be captivated by its visual splendor but also empowered by its profound healing properties, strengthening your connection with your authentic self.

Clear Quartz is associated with the Crown Chakra, the epicenter of your consciousness.

Amethyst – study room

When I’m working, I prefer to be near a window to gaze into the distance and have an Amethyst Crystal near me to ground me and inspire me.

I truly believe that designing a peaceful place for work can improve our creativity and productivity. We need something that can take us beyond the barriers of our limitations, and it seems like the Amethyst is the perfect stone for this. Besides her mesmerising beauty, this crystal is a natural stress reliever, balancing energies and creating a harmonious environment.

This gem resonates with the Third Eye Chakra and can also be a perfect partner in meditation and improving your spiritual awareness.

Celestite – kids’ room

Crystals manifest in a rich diversity of forms and serve a myriad of purposes. Depending on your intentions—whether it’s fostering love, growth, protection, or tranquility—you can discover an array of crystals that align with your needs.

In Arun’s room, my choice was Celestite, an exceptional crystal that not only functions as a guide in the New Age but also instills a sense of serenity, nurturing restful sleep while nurturing an expansive atmosphere for development and growth. Celestite actively engages and bolsters the Throat Chakra, promoting clear and open communication.

Considering your specific intentions for a kids’ room, here are some alternative options worthy of contemplation:

  • In children’s room, Citrine comes to the forefront, enhancing concentration and memory retention.
  • The gentle, nurturing aura of Rose Quartz creates an environment steeped in love and care.
  • Amethyst, an adept guardian, adeptly wards off negativity in the surroundings.
  • Onyx, an indomitable protector, stands as one of the most potent shielding stones available.
  • Clear Quartz, a crystal of openness and enlightenment, cultivates receptivity to positive knowledge.
  • Peridot, resplendent in its emerald hue, invigorates growth and sharpens the mind, making it the ideal companion for the pursuit of knowledge and study.

Ultimately, whether you believe in the potential influence of gemstones on our lives or not, we can’t disregard the fact that, at a chemical level, minerals, which are in the composition of the crystals, are intrinsic to our body chemistry. They are, in essence, a fundamental part of us, establishing a logical and direct connection. A Microcosmos is a Macrocosmos.

I firmly believe that there’s a wealth of wisdom to be gained from our crystalline companions, beginning with the fascinating narratives of their creation and culminating in their extraordinary beauty. With open hearts and minds, we can forge a profound connection with our crystals and unlock a treasury of enlightenment.

Over a decade ago, when I embarked on a conscious journey to understand my ego, I discovered invaluable support from these precious gems. Crystals have the remarkable ability to elevate our spirit and nurture our innate gifts, provided we open ourselves to their potential. Remember, it’s essential to cleanse your crystals upon bringing them home and set your intention before commencing your work with them.

Now, I’m curious – which crystal resonated with you the most? How did it make you feel? I’d love to hear about your experiences, so please share your thoughts in the comments below!

If you found this article valuable, please consider sharing it with anyone you believe could benefit from this information. Your sharing may be the small yet significant act that inspires someone’s path.

Remember to love yourself,

Mushroom Dana signature

Balcony makeover into toddler playground

Hello, ladies, these past days I was very busy with a new playful project I was thinking about for a very long time. A balcony makeover into a toddler playground. We used the balcony as a storage space, but uninvited things kept popping up from time to time, so it became quite unpleasant. Therefore, we decided to transform one of our balconies into a playing space for Arun to spend as much time outside as possible.

I managed to do everything in 5 hours, and it was worth every minute. I enjoyed playing with all the materials and making the balcony a playful space.

Interior design is one of my old passions. I love decorating, searching for ideas, mixing textures, and playing with light. It gives me new perspectives. It calms me and exercises my imagination.

One of the most important things when decorating is the colour pallet. Establish at the beginning three primary colours you want to use and stick with. In my balcony, the walls are from brick, so I decided to use the same red tone when choosing the floor. I used floor decking for outdoor from Ikea because it can be easily framed and is also affordable. I wanted to bring also some colour to be more playful, so I opted for blue and green.

The pillows bring a plus of comfort and cosiness and plants to bring nature closer and make the place alive. For kids, it is crucial to have plants around them. Besides cleaning the air around them, being near plants teaches kids to respect nature and every living being. 

I got some of my inspirations from Kelly Wearstler, I recently saw an online course of hers on Masterclass. I warmly recommend it.

The biggest challenges I had with this project was the shape of the balcony, irregular, and the size, one square meter. However, I think we managed to do a pretty good job. The floor from Ikea helped a lot because it can be easily placed depending on the space you have at your disposal.

I bought from a local store some wood figurines that I glued on the wall to stimulate Arun’s creativity. I didn’t go for stickers because they can wet and untie. Finally, I placed some of Arun toys on the balcony, and that was it.

 

It was an excellent decision to transform this little balcony into a playing area. Arun enjoys every moment spent there playing and talking with his toys and almost forgetting about us. I hope you found inspiration in this post and encouraged you to arrange a playing space for your kid, and if you have some tips or ideas, please share them with us. We will love to know what you did to create a playing area for your kid. 

 

Love yourself,

Mushroom Dana signature