DEKAT DIGITAL 2019 - 2020

Smell is one of our most primitive senses and triggers quick responses in the brain, which was essential to
survival for early humans. Pleasant smells can enhance productivity and encourage us. Aromatherapy
is even built around using smell to trigger positive physiological and psychological effects on humans.
Think about the use of aromas in your space to allow for healing, calming, or concentration.
Psychologist Joan Meyers-Levy examined the relationship between ceiling height and thinking styles.
She concluded that low ceilings help people solve anagrams involving confinement. In contrast, rooms
with high ceilings help them solve puzzles centred around themes of freedom and liberation.
Our skin allows us to experience pressure, temperature and pain. Fireplaces and lit candles have a
huge impact on these senses and on our mood. According to psychologist Frederick L Coolidge of the
University of Colorado, fire can have an impact on the quality of sleep. Using fire to keep predators
away would have allowed early hominids to enjoy more REM sleep, which helps the brain retain skills and repeat
previously learned tasks. Fire can also help with meditation, which has been found to have many health benefits.
Touching natural materials such as wood, stone and textiles seems to have a reassuring impact as the subconscious
mind associates them with nature. The degree of hardness and softness, rigidity and flexibility and the heaviness of
objects can have an impact on mood. Soft cushions allow for feelings of relaxation and wellbeing while marble tops
can bring about feelings of achievement and stability.
Buildings also have energies and the ancient Chinese practice of feng shui claims to use energy to make people feel in
harmony with their surroundings. The ancient Romans believed building sites have a ‘genius loci’ or spirit, and would
plan the positioning of buildings and even cities using ley lines and earth energies. Surroundings such as mountains,
forests or the ocean can affect the energy of a place.
Energy therapists believe the energy of our homes often reflects our own inner emotional states. In mainstream
Rabbinic Judaism, a mezuzah is fixed to the doorpost of a residence to sanctify and protect it. Sage, rose, lavender,
frankincense and patchouli are among the fragrances said to be specific for energy cleansing, and many believe
that crystals can amplify the energy you need most in your environment. Everything from decorating your home with
houseplants to burning sage or incense has a long history going back to ancient times in all cultures. A well-considered
and designed space is an essential component of your everyday wellbeing.
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