Mocha Mousse, Pantone’s Colour of the Year, has sparked a wave of interior inspiration. Moodboards everywhere showcase this earthy, grounding hue as a central theme - and for good reason. This rich tone beautifully illustrates how colour, space, and design can influence our emotions, a concept deeply rooted in ancient Indian tradition.
In Ayurveda, the link between our interior space and how we feel is profound. The philosophy emphasises that our environment directly impacts our physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.
The Energy of Space (Vastu Shastra)
Ayurveda is closely tied to Vastu Shastra, the ancient Indian science of architecture and space. It teaches that our surroundings should align with natural energies to promote harmony and health. This might look like:
- Clutter-free, balanced spaces that encourage mental clarity and emotional calm.
- Proper lighting, natural elements and intentional design can balance the three doshas.
The Five Elements in Our Spaces
Ayurveda states that our interior spaces, like our bodies, are composed of the five elements (Pancha Mahabhutas): earth, water, fire, air and ether.
- Earth: Stability and grounding (solid furniture, earthy tones).
- Water: Flow and emotional balance (fountains, soft textures).
- Fire: Energy and transformation (candles, warm colours).
- Air: Movement and creativity (open spaces, fresh air circulation).
- Ether: Space and expansion (minimalism, quiet areas).
When we balance these elements in our home, we foster equilibrium in our mind and body. And we don't need to have an enormous space in order to achieve this - clearing out and de-cluttering is key. Then think about how to let the most light in, bring a candle into each room, consider a fresh layer of paint. Small changes can really transform our interiors, and subsequently, how we feel.
Image: Murude Studio @murude.studio
Dosha-Specific Environments
Just as Ayurveda tailors health practices to your dosha, it advises creating environments that balance your constitution:
- Vata: Warm, cosy and calming spaces with soft lighting and grounding decor.
- Pitta: Cool, airy environments with soothing colours like blue and green.
- Kapha: Bright, stimulating spaces with energising elements like light and vibrant decor.
Therefore a Vata may well be more drawn to 2025's colour of the year, but a Kapha may lean more towards a slightly more vibrant hue. Once we consider the intrinsic link between our constitution and our surrounding space, we can unlock so much greater wellbeing.
Sensory Influence on the Mind (Indriyas)
Ayurveda recognises that our senses are gateways to the mind. Our environment affects how we feel through the sensory inputs it contains:
- Sight: A tidy, aesthetically pleasing space soothes the mind.
- Smell: Aromatic herbs, oils and incense uplight or calm the emotions.
- Touch: Soft fabrics and natural textures create comfort and grounding.
- Sound: Calming sounds like gentle music or nature sounds reduce stress.
- Taste: Keeping a space for mindful eating fosters emotional balance.
Image: DeVol Kitchens @devolkitchens
By cultivating an interior space that mirrors balance and natural harmony, Ayurveda teaches us to create environments that nourish not only our bodies, but also our minds and spirits. We recommend exploring this in your space in 2025.
Hero image: Soho Home