Benefits of a window seat
Sure I can tote the importance of a window seat, but realistically, not every home offers opportunity for a perfect little built-in niche filled with pillows and storage solutions. So, that's not what I'm going to do here. However, I do want to share the benefits of finding a cozy space in your home that is full of sunlight, especially here in the Pacific Northwest.
We've all experienced the antsy feeling of cabin fever mid-February... you know, right about that time when we think the gray will never go away. What if there were ways to make it more bearable (no, I can't make long, gray, damp winters feel like cheerful spring or toasty summer. But, we can certainly find ways to warm ourselves in the long, cold months and fill us with energy that this time usually drains from us. Two magic words- vitamin D.
Benefits of a window seat: Health
As mentioned on the official website of the US Department of Health and Human Services, Vitamin D plays a crucial and essential role in strengthening our bones, modulating cell growth, decreasing the risk of various types of cancer, and preventing several other medical conditions that can adversely affect our overall health. Medical News Today further illustrates that, in addition to contributing to our physical well-being, vitamin D also has a significantly positive impact on our mental well-being, which can be particularly observed in specific conditions such as Seasonal Affective Disorder, where its effects are especially noteworthy.
Benefits of a window seat: Enrichment
A window seat serves as more than just a cozy nook for curling up with a good book. It offers an inviting space to soak up the warm sun while fully immersing yourself in an engaging story. This unique setting allows you to indulge in moments of tranquility and reflection. By embracing this peaceful environment, you not only engage in enriching your mind through literature but also enjoy numerous health benefits associated with natural light. The gentle rays can elevate your mood, boost your vitamin D levels, and enhance your overall well-being. Moreover, a window seat can serve as a perfect vantage point to observe the world outside, allowing your thoughts to wander and your creativity to flourish. So, whether you are reading, contemplating, or simply enjoying the view, this space is truly multifaceted, promoting both mental and physical wellness.
Benefits of a window seat: Self-reflection
One of my favorite pastimes in my Pullman apartment during my college years with my husband was to lean over the back of the sofa and gaze out the window. These moments were both peaceful and rejuvenating. I would often lose myself in the view of my garden, which brought me a sense of joy and pride. The garden was a canvas of colors and textures, where vibrant flowers bloomed and greenery thrived. Many afternoons, I watched as a playful baby skunk made its way into the yard, engaging in amusing antics that never failed to make me smile.
Beyond the garden, the rolling hills painted a picturesque backdrop against the sky. Their gentle curves and soft hues were a source of inspiration, inviting me to reflect on my life and the whirlwind of experiences that came with college. Those moments spent staring out the window offered a much-needed respite from the intensity of my studies. They provided clarity and a chance to breathe, reminding me to appreciate the beauty around me amidst the demands of academic life. Each glance out that window became a small sanctuary, a reminder of the simple joys that often went unnoticed in the hustle of daily responsibilities.
Benefits of a window seat: Efficient use of space
Well, yes, I do have to look at the space planning aspects as well, and window seats are a fantastic way to optimize space. It is an opportunity to build in seating that can be utilized as storage and overflow seating.
Knowing all these benefits does not mean we have to install a built-in bench in our homes, but it encourages us to think creatively. Your window seat can take various forms. It might be a cozy armchair, a sofa positioned under a skylight, or even a simple floor cushion tucked away in a unique corner. Wherever your window seat is, take a moment to create one. Find a space in your home that receives ample natural light during the times you are home and able to unwind—even if that means setting up with your laptop to get some work done.
