Burnt out at work? Revamp your space with these calming workspace ideas that actually work
But here's the twist: you don't need to quit your job or escape to a cabin in the hills. Sometimes, all it takes is a few calming workspace upgrades to breathe life (and sanity) back into your routine. Small changes, big difference. Let's fix the vibe.
Add plants and call it your calming ambience starter pack
No need for a full-blown home jungle. Just one leafy friend on your desk is enough to upgrade your space (and maybe your mood). Plants = oxygen, sure. But more importantly? They look great, do nothing, and still get compliments.
Tip: Get a snake plant or pothos if you're lazy. They're basically immortal.
Calming workspace colours: ditch the cold, bring in calm
If your room is 50 shades of grey (not in a good way), your brain is probably begging for some colour therapy. Soft blues, muted greens, dusty pinks, or beiges can make your space feel less like a clinic and more like a creative cave.
Paint a wall. Hang a pastel print. Or just swap out that angry red chair. Instant peace.
Lighting means better mood
Overhead white light? Cancelled.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Pierce Brosnan's Wife Lost 120 Pounds - This Is Her Now
5minstory.com
Undo
You're not in a police drama.
Bring in warm desk lamps, soft string lights, or better, natural light if you can swing it. Your eyes will thank you. Your selfies might too. Pro tip: Add a Himalayan salt lamp if you want vibes without effort.
Want a calming workspace? Clean your desk, emotionally and physically
The messy desk = creative genius theory only goes so far. Eventually, the clutter becomes brain static. Give your space a reset, ditch the snack wrappers, organise your chargers, and throw away the pen that hasn't worked since 2021.
You don't need aesthetic perfection, just breathing room.
Divide and conquer: Zone your space for calming ambience
Even if you're working from a single room, micro-zones can change everything. One spot for focus, another for breaks, even if it's just a bean bag or floor mat. Mentally, it helps you shift gears without shifting locations. Zoom corner. Thinking chair. Snack shelf. Your space, your zones.
Calming workspace textures: soft, quiet, and a little indulgent
Add a soft throw, a plush chair cushion, or a squishy footrest. These little touches do more than you think.
Your body will associate the space with comfort, not stress. Add a scented candle or a diffuser with lavender or eucalyptus? Now you've unlocked CEO-level chill.
The calming workspace cheat sheet
Fix This
With This
Harsh lighting
Warm-toned lamp or daylight exposure
Grey, dull walls
Soft tones or warm accent colours
Dead desk vibes
Add greenery, candles, or calm textures
Cluttered setup
Clean zones and hidden storage hacks
Monotony & brain fog
Create work + rest zones within the same space
Burnout isn't always about workload, it's often about where you're working. And the good news? You don't need a Pinterest-perfect office to feel better. Just a few calming workspace upgrades, a plant or two, and lighting that doesn't attack your soul.Start with one corner. Fix the light. Add one cozy thing. The rest? You'll feel it.
Also read|
Monsoon gardening essentials for healthy plants this rainy season
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
3 hours ago
- Time of India
Gingham maxi skirts: Timeless styling tips for every season
There's something charmingly nostalgic about gingham. It's a print that carries memories of sunlit schoolyards, picnic blankets, and old Hollywood stills where starlets made checks look effortlessly chic. This year, however, gingham has evolved beyond summer nostalgia. One piece in particular has caught the attention of the fashion-forward: the gingham maxi skirt. And it's not just a seasonal trend, it's becoming a style staple for every wardrobe, in every season. A global fashion love affair with gingham Originally brought to Europe through trade routes from Southeast Asia, gingham didn't begin as the checkered pattern we know today. It was first a striped fabric, often dyed in vibrant shades. But by the 18th century, British textile mills began weaving it into symmetrical checks. Its affordability and durability made it popular during the Second World War. In fact, the iconic blue gingham pinafore worn by Judy Garland in The Wizard of Oz is often credited with helping to cement gingham in pop culture. From wartime uniforms to film costumes, gingham became more than fabric; it symbolized simplicity and resilience. Later, in the 1960s, stars like Brigitte Bardot wore gingham to their weddings, lending the pattern a feminine, playful charm that lasted well into the decades that followed. Gingham skirts: The most versatile piece in your closet Of all the ways gingham is worn, the maxi skirt stands out for its versatility. It allows the print to make a statement without overwhelming your outfit. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Villa Prices in Dubai Might Be Lower Than You Think! Villa for sale in Dubai | Search Ads Learn More Undo Unlike mini dresses or playsuits that might feel overly youthful or seasonal, a maxi skirt lends itself to layering, experimentation, and even formal dressing. What makes the gingham maxi skirt truly special is its ability to shape-shift. Pair it with sandals and a white tank, and you have a casual brunch look. Throw on a denim jacket or a knit cardigan, and it becomes cozy enough for transitional weather. With boots and a structured coat, it can even carry you through winter. And that's the magic of the gingham maxi, it never demands much but always delivers. How to style gingham without looking like a schoolgirl One challenge with gingham is that it can easily veer into 'cutesy' territory, think frilly socks, puffed sleeves, and pastel bows. While that can work for some, others may want a more grounded take. The key is to contrast gingham's natural sweetness with minimalist or androgynous elements. Instead of pairing your maxi with other printed pieces or frills, try wearing it with oversized blazers, leather boots, or plain monochrome tops. A structured tote bag and some gold hoops can transform a picnic-inspired skirt into something boardroom-appropriate. Even better? Gingham comes in all colors now, beyond the classic red or blue. Earthy shades like brown, green, mustard, and even deep plum are rising in popularity, especially for autumn. These tones make the print more wearable in cooler months without sacrificing its charm. Yes, you can wear gingham all year long One of the biggest misconceptions about gingham is that it belongs only to spring and summer. Perhaps it's the picnic imagery or associations with cotton sundresses. But in reality, the gingham maxi skirt is a year-round hero if you style it right. For autumn, try styling it with loafers, turtlenecks, and dark leather jackets. Add a thick scarf and a neutral-toned sweater, and the outfit transitions easily into cooler days. For winter, pair your gingham with tights and knee-high boots, and layer with a wool coat or even a trench. A thick knit or cashmere top in complementary tones burgundy, cream, or charcoal, can add a cozy contrast to the grid-like neatness of gingham. When spring arrives again, just swap the boots for strappy sandals, and you're back in the meadow. Why the gingham maxi skirt is here to stay Fashion trends come and go, but certain pieces stay with us because they adapt, evolve, and tell stories. The gingham maxi skirt does exactly that. It has roots in history and cinema, has been adopted by icons across generations, and continues to shape-shift with modern fashion sensibilities. It isn't loud or flashy, but that's part of its charm. In a world of fast trends and throwaway pieces, the gingham maxi offers something grounding. A sense of nostalgia mixed with possibility. A canvas for personal expression, whether you're a minimalist, a romantic, or a risk-taker. And that's why, no matter the season, you'll always find room for it in the wardrobe of someone who knows that true style is all about the details.
Time of India
3 hours ago
- Time of India
Mumtaz considers comeback after 35 years; says she wants to do something "that would not disappoint fans"
Mumtaz, a beloved figure in Indian cinema , has always garnered the appreciation of fans and critics alike. She started her career around 35 years ago and was at her peak when she said goodbye to acting. However, it appears that now the actress is ready to make her comeback, but only if something worth her time and talent comes her way. 'I was a mere child when I began acting. It was not an easy journey. But I made it to the top. When I quit to get married, I was the highest-paid actress of Indian cinema,' Mumtaz shared in an exclusive conversation with us.. Mumtaz on her comeback The big question is that after more than three decades, is Mumtaz ready for her comeback to the big screen? Weighing in on the subject, she said, 'I was offered Sanjay Leela Bhansali 's Heeramandi. But I said no to that. The money being offered was a pittance. Why would I work for so little money when I have everything that I need, plus more?' The actress, remembered for her hit films in the 1970s like 'Do Raaste,' 'Aap Ki Kasam,' 'Hare Rama Hare Krishna' and 'Prem Kahani,' added that she is on the lookout for something substantial to return with. 'It should be something that would not disappoint my fans. Even today, when I go out on the streets, people recognize me in every part of the world. That's because I have maintained myself. I do regular exercise, I don't eat after sunset, and I don't stuff myself during meals, and most importantly, I don't think negative thoughts. Mujhe kisise koi shikaayat nahin hai.' 'All my dreams have come true,' says Mumtaaz Further, in the conversation, when asked if there's any unfulfilled dream that the actress has, she replied, 'None at all.' by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like The World's 15 Most Beautiful Hotel Swimmingpools Learn More Undo 'All my dreams have come true. I started my career as an actor when I was only 14. Uss din se aaj tak mujhe logon ka pyar mila,' she added. The actress who has her birthday coming this month concluded, 'On my birthdays, I barely open my eyes in the morning when I am flooded with messages. I consider myself the richest woman in the world.'
Time of India
4 hours ago
- Time of India
August 2025 Holidays: From Rakhi, Independence Day to Ganesh Chaturthi, know which days schools and offices will be shut
From flag hoisting and firecrackers to dahi handi and dancing around idols, August 2025 has it all. With at least five major festivals packed into 31 days, this month turns into a cultural carnival across India. Whether you're planning a trip, looking forward to family reunions, or just here for the modaks and rakhis, there's something to look forward to every week. Raksha Bandhan 2025: Saturday, 9 August August kicks off with the heart-warming festival of Raksha Bandhan on Saturday, 9 August. On this day, sisters tie a rakhi, a sacred thread, on their brothers' wrists, symbolising love, protection, and lifelong support. In return, brothers offer gifts and promises to safeguard their sisters. Over the years, Raksha Bandhan has evolved beyond the brother-sister bond and is now celebrated among cousins, close friends, and even across communities. It's a day where sweets are exchanged, childhood memories are relived, and family ties grow stronger. Explore courses from Top Institutes in Please select course: Select a Course Category Triple Holiday Bonanza: Friday, 15 August Mid-month, Friday, 15 August turns into a rare trifecta of festivals. First, the country observes Independence Day, marking the 78th anniversary of freedom from British rule. The national flag will be hoisted across government buildings and homes, patriotic songs will echo through schools and streets, and citizens will honour the sacrifices of the freedom fighters who made it all possible. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Villas Prices In Dubai Might Be More Affordable Than You Think Villas In Dubai | Search Ads Get Quote Undo The same day also marks Parsi New Year, or Nauraj, a time of prayers, family gatherings, and feasting for the Parsi community. Dressed in traditional attire, Parsis visit fire temples and greet each other with joy and hope for the year ahead. Adding to the mix is Janmashtami (Smarta), the celebration of Lord Krishna's birth. Devotees fast, chant bhajans, and decorate their homes and temples with flowers and images of baby Krishna. The midnight birth of the deity is marked with much devotion, especially in Mathura and Vrindavan, where Krishna is believed to have spent his early years. Live Events Janmashtami 2025: Saturday, 16 August For other sects and regions, Janmashtami (General) is celebrated on Saturday, 16 August. Temples across the country host dramatic performances of Ras Leela, depicting Krishna's life stories. Children dress up as Krishna and Radha, and in some cities, the Dahi Handi ritual adds excitement as groups form human pyramids to break a pot of curd hung high above the ground. Ganesh Chaturthi 2025: Wednesday, 27 August Towards the end of the month, Ganesh Chaturthi arrives on Wednesday, 27 August, bringing with it the sound of drums, chants of "Ganpati Bappa Morya," and the unmistakable aroma of modaks. Celebrated with grandeur in Maharashtra and across India, devotees install clay idols of Lord Ganesha at home and in public pandals, offering prayers, sweets, and songs over ten days. It's a time of devotion, community celebration, and environmental awareness as more people adopt eco-friendly idols and sustainable practices. From siblings tying rakhis to communities welcoming Lord Ganesha, August 2025 is a reminder of India's rich cultural tapestry. Whether it's fasting, feasting, praying or parading, each festival brings people together, adding colour and meaning to our everyday lives.
