If you select links we provide, we may receive compensation. Make your yard staycation-worthy with these professional design services and tools. You don’t have to spend a fortune to access solidlandscapeandhardscape designhelp. Try one of these landscape design services to help you plan your dream outdoor space. (Packages get pricier if you want help with hardscape suggestions or have a larger yard.) The “The Back” package starts with a video consultation to discuss the project....

Avoid these common pitfalls to elevate your space. Selecting art is usually one of the most challenging aspects of decorating your home. And its notjustabout what looks good at first glance buthow it fitsinto the larger picture of your home. Photo:Follow The Flow/Getty Images is easy and cheap, but that doesnt necessarily mean youshould. If finding local art isnt an option, considerexploring placeslike Etsy or even a thrift store. Take your time, experiment, and choose pieces that feel meaningful to you and your space....

Prepare your green thumbseven science agrees on this one! And you even get some beautiful flowers or delicious herbs and veggies out of the whole thing! Lets get into some specific ways that gardening canhelp you live longer. Photo:Rosemary Calvert/Getty Images The act of tending to your green space is also inherently soothing. Gardening can enhance mood and improve symptoms of depression. A review published inPreventive Medicine Reportsfound that gardening is associated withreduced depression and anxiety....

Here’s how to copeand take back some controlwhen faced with an ambiguous future. “Anxiety makes us worry about the future so that we can plan for scenarios. For example, they might ask themselves the following: Who will be there? What will everyone be wearing? How long will it last? Will I say something awkward? Will it be fun? How are we getting home? We’ll find out when we get there; I’m going with the flow....

Cool down your yard with these shady options recommended by experts. Determine Your Shade Needs There’s no one-size-fits all option for creating backyard shade. Consider these questions before you shop. Photo: Mathilde Receveur/Getty Images Why do you want shade? Do you just want a little shady corner for reading or relaxing in a hammock? Or are you hoping to get shelter from the rain and sun for outdoor parties? Portra/Getty Images...

Your job doesn’t have to deplete your energy. Learning to recognize these fatigue signals is crucialstop glorifying the grind and start working like a human. Dr. Nusha Nouhi, clinical & health psychologist, offers tips for those struggling withwork-related fatigue. Miciano recommends three categories: high-spend, mid-spend, and low-spend. Each morning, check in with yourself: how much energy do I actually have today? Then plan your day to match that realitynot your ideal version of productivity, Miciano says....

A few intentional decor swaps can make a big difference. Meepian Graphic/Getty Images Your bathroom should feel like a sanctuarya relaxing place to retreat and practiceself-care. One easy way to achieve an ideal ambiance for relaxation is with a more minimalist look. Photo:Meepian Graphic/Getty Images However, that doesnt mean gutting everything in your bathroom and starting over. Sometimes a simple change can make a major impact on how the space feels....

That gorgeous Douglas fir isn’t going to water itself. Out-of-state trees may experience lots of winds during transit that can cause your tree to be prematurely dry. Get the tree in water within four to six hours of a fresh cut. This will ensure it holds enough water to ensure proper hydration. Finally, fill it with water. LEDs use at least 75% less energy than traditional lights and last a whopping 25 times longer....

These design tricks can expand your kitchenwithout tearing down any walls. However, it is possible to make the best of it. Youll never regret going with panel appliances because they offer a timeless look and cohesive aesthetic. Photo:Joe Hendrickson/Getty Images Integrated or panel appliances help keep the kitchen looking clean and seamless, says Amr Samaha of Samaha Studio. They blend right into the cabinetry and prevent the space from feeling cluttered....

Work smarter, not harder. If you’ve ever wondered how the professionals do it, you’ve come to the right place. If youre short on after-dinner cleaning time, feel free to soak the dishes overnight. Photo:NelliSyr/Getty Images Deglaze Burnt-On Food Unfortunately, some food bits may betoo stubbornfor a hot water soak. Scott Groth, professional chef and food blogger, recommends deglazing in these situations. First, remove any of the solids from the pan while it is still hot, says Groth....

Theholiday seasonwill be here before you know it. But that doesnt mean you cant enjoy your own partyit just means you better plan a bit in advance. Here are seven ways to make holiday hosting easier during the upcoming season. G Point Studio/Getty Images There is no shame in getting assistance from the pros. Stress Less About Clean-Up by Hiring Help Clean-up is the least fun part of the night....

Because no one should be wearing painful shoes! And youre left hobbling 20 minutes out the door. And doing so can be more than an annoyance, experts say. Photo:Brie Goldman, Prop Stylist: Breanna Ghazali Ill-fitting shoes can lead to injuries as well as bunions, hammertoes, and calluses. Have kicks that you might’t bear to donate? There are a few fixes to help make them more comfortable. Straps that are too tight can be bothersome and cut into your skin....

Small spaces, big ideas. Kruwt/Getty Images Many of us wish we had a large backyard, but that often isnt the reality. Here are a few big ideas for filling out your small outdoor spaces. Photo:Kruwt/Getty Images So, its important to prioritize. Do you want to use the space for cooking, eating, lounging, orplanting a garden? Do you like making s’mores, or would you enjoy some solo time with a book and a cocktail?...