The outdoors has a natural appeal to humans. The sky, earth, water, and other outdoor elements make us feel refreshed, calm, and one with the earth. How do we get these elements from the outdoors, inside of our home? The obvious way is by bringing plants into our living space. Although, a wonderful idea, here’s 10 other simple ways to bring the outdoors in.

1.) Bring in Natural Fibers, Textures and Patterns: Wicker, Rattan, Hemp, and Jute are all materials that are inspired by nature. Choose these materials in your furniture for a comfortable oasis to relax. In decor – baskets, rugs, and even lampshades will bring the outdoors to your relaxing space.

2.) Use colors that are inspired by the outdoors: Green’s remind us of the earth, grass and plants. Blues are refreshing like water and the sky. Yellows evoke a sense of freshness, like the sun and fresh flowers. Neutral tones such as whites, tans and beige’s make your interiors feel natural, and clean. Use these colors on your walls, window coverings, bedding, and decor.

3.) Use natural flooring instead of man-made flooring:  Wood, cork, bamboo are all flooring materials that feel warm, natural and inviting under foot. By bringing these flooring choices into your home, your body will appeal to the organic elements of natural flooring, instead of cold man-made materials.

4.) Use elements found in nature in your decor: Rocks, sea shells, jars of beach sand, wood, and straw are just a few elements which you can incorporate into your everyday living, to bring the outdoors in. Try adding photographs and murals of these elements if you don’t have the real thing on hand.

5.) Entice your senses with outdoor cues: Woodsy incense, and floral potpourri scents are always a treat. Sounds of rain, wind, and the beach are used in luxury spas to make the body feel relaxed and in tune with nature. This same feeling can be brought into your home.

6.) Let in natural light: Natural light is absolutely free and it makes humans feel wonderful! Replace heavy drapery with lighter fabrics and/or sheers.  Let natural light into your home daily, and see how the outdoors pours into your space.

7.) Open your windows and breathe in fresh air: As humans, we require fresh air to feel alive and at peace. Bring the outdoors inside by installing screens in your windows, and turning the air conditioning off occasionally and letting in fresh air.

8.) Ensure all windows have a gorgeous view: If you have overgrown bushes, or trash dumpsters blocking your view, clear it up! Bring the outdoors in by enjoying views of landscaping, pools, or just your kids playing out in the yard.

9.) Decorate with fruits and vegetables: The latest interior décor trend is to decorate with food. Use lemons, limes, and mint for a visual and aromatic outdoor inspiration!

10.) Choose eco-friendly materials for your home: Bedding, towels, cleaning products, and even paint, all come in eco-friendly varieties.  Try using earth friendly products on a daily basis; you’ll feel closer to nature, and the earth will thank you.

//freshome.com/2010/06/20/10-simple-ways-to-bring-the-outdoors-inside/