{This is a guest post.}

In a study of metropolitan cities with residents most likely to take annual vacations, Boston ranked third on the list. Why do you, along with many other Bostonians, spend thousands of dollars each year to go on vacation? More often than not, it’s to unwind, de-stress and rejuvenate from a demanding life. There’s no harm in that, but what if you didn’t have to plan a weekend getaway or two-week trip to relax? What if that very feeling, you know, the one you get when you step into a hotel suite or beachside bungalow, could be recreated at home? With a few quick fixes, this is how it’s possible.

Start With Calming Colors

What do all of your go-to relaxation spots have in common? An easy guess would be that they’re each adorned in earth-toned colors. Whether on the walls, in the decor or as the shade of the bedding, neutral greens, beige hues and blues have been proven to have calming effects on people, while strong hues like red can increase stress. For your relaxation room, choose a cool-colored palette like Coastal Cool from Sherwin-Williams to work with. Base any decor or furniture choices on your color scheme, and try to keep these items simple.

Invite Light In

Say yes to light, but no to fluorescents. Instead, opt for less harsh lighting, like candles or sunshine. Whether a yoga room or painting studio, natural light will open the area and make it feel more inviting. For the best views of the city, surround yourself with the outdoors by knocking out a wall and transforming the space into a calming sunroom area. Great for growing a small garden or relaxing with a cup of tea, a patio could be just the escape you’re looking for. At night enjoy the glow from the city lights or for more privacy, close the curtains and use lamps to contribute to the calming ambiance.

Indulge Your Creative Side

More than just a quiet place to go to unwind, nap and maybe read a book, consider designing a room that caters to your creative side. Set up a simple desk and chair that faces the window for the times you get that urge to write, paint or scrapbook. Fill the space with items that inspire you, from quotes and snapshots to letters and barely-budding plants. Designer Rachel Ashwell, author of “Shabby Chic Interiors,” tells RedBookMag that readers should capitalize on the things they love in order to make the room call to them. One way to do so could be to create a comfy lounging corner or even bring in something nostalgic from their youth.

Keep Distractions Out

Though TVs, laptops and other devices are on the list, they aren’t the only distractions that can put a damper on your relaxation room. Clutter, temperature, sound and even smell can contribute to your overall mood when you’re trying to de-stress. Nothing takes the fun out of freedom like multiple reminders of the life responsibilities you have waiting outside the door. Leave the bills in the kitchen, turn on some tunes, lower the thermostat and light a candle before enjoying a mini-vacation in your special sanctuary.