7 Quick Wins in Achieving A Calmer Home (That Take Under 20 Minutes!)
Life can feel overwhelming when your home is cluttered and hectic. The good news? A few simple, mindful tasks- each under 20 minutes- can instantly make your space feel calmer and more in control. These quick wins are easy to fit into a busy day, and each one gives an immediate mood boost. Ready to carve out a little peace? Let’s dive in!
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you choose to make a purchase. I only share things I genuinely love or would use in my own cozy home. Thank you for your support and helping me keep the ideas coming! 💛 Affiliate Disclosure
1. Make Your Bed and Fluff Your Pillows
Making your bed might sound tiny, but it sets a positive tone for the day. In fact, Navy SEAL William McRaven famously noted that “just by making your bed, you’ve accomplished at least that one thing” – a small win that sparks confidence. Take a minute to straighten sheets, fluff pillows, and add a cozy throw blanket. Voila- your bedroom or living area instantly feels neater and more inviting. The result? Even a few extra seconds of order can reduce morning stress and make coming home feel more restful.
Layer your couch or reading chair with this ultra-soft throw. Perfect for those slow, sacred moments with tea and a good book.
2. Tidy a Clutter Hotspot
Clutter is sneaky stress that piles up over time. Researchers point out that seeing even small stacks of stuff (like mail, toys, or coffee mugs) “can cause stress,” especially for busy women. The trick is to tackle just one zone for 10-15 minutes. Pick a crowded countertop, your nightstand, or an entryway basket. Sort out papers, toss trash, and tuck away loose items in a basket or tray. You’ll notice an immediate breath of relief- studies say clearing even a bit of clutter helps you “breathe a little easier” at home.
3. Light a Soothing Candle
A gentle aroma and warm light work fast to calm the mind. Try lighting a scented candle or using an essential-oil diffuser for just a few minutes. Scents like lavender, vanilla, or eucalyptus are known to trigger happy memories and relaxation. Within moments, your space feels cozier- and you feel cozier too. (Bonus: light just one or two candles, and a little dim light immediately softens the whole room.)
4. Bring in a Touch of Nature
Connecting with nature calms our brains. Just adding one small plant or a vase of fresh flowers can have big effects. Research shows that having greenery indoors boosts positive emotions like relaxation and happiness. When you place a plant on a shelf or light flowers on the table, you’re literally “bringing the outside in”- a quick way to feel comforted by nature’s presence. (No green thumb? Low-maintenance options like succulents or faux plants work too- they add life without extra chores.)
I like these as they were created using high quality ceramic paint and zero vinyl. These planters also have a removable bamboo base.
A cute little toot bursting with mini succulents. These are super unique! Includes 6 assorted mini succulents potted in a 2” nursery pot and ready to cute up your garden or windowsill.
5. Journal a Few Gratitudes
Your mind races with to-dos- pause it by writing for 5 minutes. Grab a notebook or journal and jot down 2-3 things you’re thankful for today. It could be as simple as “a warm shower” or “a funny cat meme.” Gratitude journaling is a proven mood booster: people who write regularly in a gratitude journal “tend to feel happier and experience fewer feelings of loneliness”. In under ten minutes, you’ll shift your focus from stress to the positives in your life. You can even add doodles or colors to make it fun and truly your thing.
I recommend my 5 Minute Intention Journal, which includes 90 pages (90 days) of daily intention check-ins. By doing these when you’re first getting up and around for the day, you are statistically more likely to achieve your goals.
Start Your Day With Purpose — In Just 5 Minutes
Feeling overwhelmed before the day even begins? This 5 Minute Intention Journal was created to help you pause, reset, and align your heart with what truly matters—without overcomplicating your morning routine.
6. Sip a Soothing Cup of Tea
Put the kettle on or steep tea in the microwave. Chamomile, mint, or any caffeine-free herbal blend is ideal for winding down. Science backs this cozy habit: chamomile tea, for instance, “may help people relax and fall asleep” and has been shown to reduce anxiety symptoms over time. Pour your favorite mug, sit by a window or candle, and take a few slow sips. Five minutes of mindful sipping can instantly soothe frazzled nerves, plus the warmth is super comforting on a busy day.
Hibiscus tea has several potential health benefits, including lowering blood pressure, lowering “bad” cholesterol, and aiding in weight management.
- Premium Source
- Caffeine Free
- Made Using Eco-Friendly Hemp
- Non-GMO, Sugar Free
“Too Tired to Celebrate– Still Free” 11oz Coffee Mug
Celebrate freedom the introvert way– with caffeine, quiet, and just enough sparkle. Featuring a sleepy goose in a patriotic nightcap, clutching a sparkler with zero enthusiasm, this 11oz coffee mug speaks to anyone who’s feeling festive-ish. Whether you’re prepping for…
7. Set the Mood with Soft Light and Sound
On those evenings when everything feels loud or hectic, flip the switch on harsh overhead lights. Instead, plug in a salt lamp, battery fairy lights, or flameless LED candles to add a warm glow. The gentle light signals your brain that it’s time to wind down. You can also put on a quiet playlist or a white-noise app for a few minutes- even a minute of ocean sounds or rain in the background helps mask chaos and relax you. The combined effect of soft light and gentle sound instantly makes home feel like a cozy retreat.
You’ve just unlocked seven little ways to find calm in your home in just minutes. Remember, consistency is key: even on crazy days, a quick win like one of these can reset your energy. Start small, and before you know it, these mini rituals will become natural parts of your day.
You’ve got this, and your home’s serenity is waiting! For extra support, don’t forget to grab our free printable “7 Quick Wins for a Calmer Home – Daily Tracker.” It’s a handy checklist (with all these tips on it) to help you remember one easy task each day. A calmer home is just a few minutes away — and so is that peaceful feeling you deserve. Happy relaxing!
