Modern Australian
Men's Weekly

.

Relax and unwind: 5 calming ways to make your living room a stress-free zone


There’s nothing better than relaxing after a hectic day, but if your living room is tired, cluttered, and stressful, then it’s probably not the evening you envisioned. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways you can update your living room and make it a stress-free zone. Read on to find out more.

Update your TV cabinet

Many of us look forward to sitting down on the sofa and binge-watching our favourite shows. It’s often the simplest of things that bring us the most joy – especially after a busy day at work and/or running around after the kids. A poorly built TV cabinet, one that is dated or one that doesn’t accommodate wires, consoles or TV boxes can quickly become stressful and unpleasant to look at. Updating your TV stand means creating a focal point in your living room, reducing clutter and making your living space much calmer. If you’re looking for a new unit, check out these tv entertainment units here. When your TV unit meets your needs and complements your living room, you’ll find it much easier to relax and unwind in front of your favourite shows.

Be clever with storage

Clutter and junk tend to accumulate in the living room, which can quickly become stressful and make it difficult to relax and unwind. By being clever with your storage, even a small living space can be clutter-free and a stress-free sanctuary. From utilising cupboard and drawer space in your TV cabinet to selecting a footstool, a hidden storage compartment, smart shelving, tidy wires, and even built-in bookcases, side tables and floating shelves are all options that can help you make the most of your living room.

Lighting is your friend

Poor lighting can cause havoc with the ambience in your living room, it also makes it look gloomy, cramped and unappealing. Ambient lighting, table lamps or even dimmable options will help you set the tone and create a relaxing atmosphere you’ll want to retreat to after a long day at work. If you’re lucky enough to get to relax during the daytime, make the most of what natural light you have and throw open the curtains and blinds to let the sunshine in.

Make comfort a priority

Updating your sofa or couch is the most obvious option for those looking to add a little extra comfort to their stress-free living space. But if you don’t have the budget, don’t fret. Consider bringing in fluffy throws, knitted blankets, cushions and additional pillows to make your living area as relaxing as possible. Storing these little extras in your clever storage will also keep your living room clutter-free too!

Add a little nature

Did you know that spending time surrounded by nature can help to lower your blood pressure and reduce your stress levels? Bringing a little touch of nature into your home by adding some houseplants, shrubs, or planters in your living room can have a similar effect. Some house plants such as the Snake Plant, Spider Plant, or Broad Lady Palm can even purify the air in your home.

Final thoughts…

If you want to prioritise your wellbeing and ensure you have time to relax and unwind every evening, consider the points above to turn your living room into a peaceful sanctuary.

Health Features

TPD Claims & Super: What Does It All Mean?

Many Australians hear the term "TPD" in relation to their superannuation and feel completely lost. If you're scratching your head, wondering what it means or whether you might have this...

Psychologists Explore Gestalt Vs Schema Therapy for PTSD Treatment

Recent research has revealed that in 2022, 1 in 9 Australians experienced post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). For some, this can significantly impact their quality of life.  To better support clients with...

Grinding & Jaw Soreness: Signs You Might Need Night Guards and How We Protect Enamel

Waking with a tight jaw, tender muscles, or a dull temple headache is more than a bad night’s sleep. Many Australians grind or clench their teeth during sleep, a condition...

Invisible Braces vs Traditional Braces: Which Is Best for Adults?

Straightening teeth as an adult is common in Australia, and the options are better than ever. The two main choices are clear aligners, also called invisible braces in Melbourne and...

Smoking, Vaping, and Healing: How Nicotine Affects Sockets and What you can do About it

Nicotine and oral surgery are a poor mix. After an wisdom teeth removal in Sydney, your body needs a stable blood clot and steady blood flow to rebuild the socket...

Titanium and Bone: How Dental Implants Become Part of the Jaw

Dental implants replace missing teeth by anchoring a metal fixture in the jaw and fitting a crown on top. Their success rests on a biological event called osseointegration, where living...

TPD Claims & Super: What Does It All Mean?

Many Australians hear the term "TPD" in relation to their superannuation and feel completely lost. If you're scratching your head, wondering what it...

What Does Breastfeeding Feel Like? A Guide for New Moms

Frequently, numerous new mothers wonder, "What does breastfeeding feel like?" The feeling is different for each individual - a few describe it as a ...

Best Nail Care Routine for Frequent Nail Polish Wearers

For many people, nail polish is more than a beauty statement – it’s part of their everyday routine. Whether you love bold colours, chic neutrals...

Reinventing Research: How E-Libraries Are Changing Education Forever

A New Chapter for Learning For centuries libraries stood as temples of knowledge filled with shelves that smelled of dust and paper. Today the same...

Psychologists Explore Gestalt Vs Schema Therapy for PTSD Treatment

Recent research has revealed that in 2022, 1 in 9 Australians experienced post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). For some, this can significantly im...

Beyond Sunscreen: Building a Sun-Smart Culture in Modern Australia

Australia’s sun-soaked lifestyle is a defining part of its national identity. From beaches and sports fields to weekend barbecues and bushwalks, t...

What is Power BI & Why Should Your Business Use It?

In today's data-driven world, businesses are constantly searching for ways to gain a competitive edge. One tool that has emerged as a game-changer i...

From Service to Strength: How Aussie Veterans Are Rebuilding Their Lives with Everyday Support

Life after military service can bring new challenges. From physical limitations to mental health hurdles, many Australian veterans find everyday hou...

The Best Times of Year to Buy a Caravan

If you're shopping for caravans for sale, timing matters almost as much as the layout and features you desire. The calendar shapes price, stock and ...

The Growing Demand for Smart Living Through Home Automation

Technology has reshaped how we communicate, work, and travel—but now, it’s also changing the way we live at home. The rise of home automation i...

Beyond Clicks and Likes: Why Many Small Businesses in Australia Still Aren’t Leveraging Digital Marketing in 2025

Introduction In 2025, online marketing has become the driving force behind business growth for companies of all sizes. Yet, despite its proven effect...

Lighting Shop Perth: Your Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Lighting Solutions

Lighting is a fundamental element in defining the ambiance, functionality, and aesthetic appeal of any space. Whether you are renovating your home, ...

Private Booze Cruisers – The New Must-Have Toy for Cashed Up Millennials

Did you hear that your 30s are the new 20s? We’ve finally rocked up that adult money and now it’s time to play with it. I was going for a walk ...

Grinding & Jaw Soreness: Signs You Might Need Night Guards and How We Protect Enamel

Waking with a tight jaw, tender muscles, or a dull temple headache is more than a bad night’s sleep. Many Australians grind or clench their teeth ...

Circular Interior Design: Furnishing with Salvaged & Reclaimed Materials

Circular interior design is gradually making its way from niche circles into mainstream Australian homes. At its core, this approach revolves around...

Invisible Braces vs Traditional Braces: Which Is Best for Adults?

Straightening teeth as an adult is common in Australia, and the options are better than ever. The two main choices are clear aligners, also called i...

Smoking, Vaping, and Healing: How Nicotine Affects Sockets and What you can do About it

Nicotine and oral surgery are a poor mix. After an wisdom teeth removal in Sydney, your body needs a stable blood clot and steady blood flow to rebu...

Titanium and Bone: How Dental Implants Become Part of the Jaw

Dental implants replace missing teeth by anchoring a metal fixture in the jaw and fitting a crown on top. Their success rests on a biological event ...