Susie Skog knows Lake Norman Real Estate Inside Out

Here are four of todays most exciting wellness features that are finding their way into high-end homes.

Cryotherapy Chamber
This treatment, which entails exposing yourself to temperatures as low as -250 F for a few minutes can relieve muscle and joint pain, rejuvenate skin and boost energy levels.

Himalayan Salt Room
Breathing salty air is said to help improve the immune system and relieve symptoms of certain respiratory conditions, like asthma and allergies.

Sensory Deprivation Chamber
While floating in total darkness for a few minutes many people experience a state similar to deep meditation that delivers relaxation and clarity.

Infrared Sauna
Using infrared lights, the body is directly heated, but the air is not, which some find to be a more pleasant experience.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

The bathroom is a place that should promote a sense of harmony. From your morning ritual to bedtime routine, it plays a crucial role in our everyday lives. For many people, decorating with plants is a surefire way to create a relaxing space, yet the moisture and humidity in a bathroom make it a unique environment. Because of this, you can get away with growing tropical varieties that likely wouldnt survive elsewhere in the home. Following are a few such plants that thrive under these conditions.

Orchids
Native to the tropics, a steamy bathroom can be the perfect spot to grow this breathtaking plant as long as it gets enough natural light. Generally speaking, humidity and an abundance of indirect sunlight are key in order for orchids to bloom, however, there are literally thousands of different species that require varying conditions. Phalaenopsis orchids are especially well-suited to the bathroom and are considered one of the easier varieties to grow.

Spider Plant
While the spider plant can likely do well anywhere in the home, itll be particularly happy in a setting with warm and moist air. After all, theyre native to tropical regions of Africa. Spider plants are renowned for being low-maintenance, but the biggest draw is likely their well-documented air-purifying abilities. In NASAs famous Clean Air Study, they were one of the most effective at removing toxins and airborne pollutants from their environment.

Bromeliads
For a vibrant display of flowers, youll be hard-pressed to find a more stunning specimen than bromeliads. From bright pinks and yellows to deep purple, theyre prized for their unique foliage. Bromeliads tend to do best with humidity levels ranging from 40-60%, making them an ideal addition to the bathroom. The exact amount of sunlight will vary depending on which type you choose.

Philodendron
With its dark and glossy leaves, a philodendron will instantly give your bathroom the feel of a tropical rainforest. There are numerous species that lend an exotic aesthetic, but the split-leaf philodendron, in particular, can thrive in your bathroom while adding a striking visual display to greet you each morning.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

While theres plenty to love about urban life, its no secret that it can be a grind. The noise, the traffic and the general energy can leave us yearning for a little peace and quiet at the end of the day. If you want to come home to a more relaxing environment, here are several ways to create your own urban oasis.

Reduce Noise Pollution
If you live close to the street level, noise pollution can be a major cause of disruption, as anyone whos had the unfortunate experience of being awoken by a car alarm at three in the morning can attest to. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce the amount of noise that gets into your home, and windows that have a high sound transmission class rating are perhaps the most effective method. Additionally, extra insulation and proper window treatments can help to dampen the sounds of the street.

Air Purification & Ventilation
When the air in your apartment is feeling kind of stuffy, the first thing you want to do is open the window, right? Of course, thats just going to let all the noise pollution in, or worse, air pollution. For this reason, it might be worth installing a ventilation system to pump fresh air into your home, as well as a purifier to remove any airborne contaminants. Improved air quality can make all the difference and leave you feeling like youve escaped the city each time you get home.

Plenty of Plants
If theres one thing that the city can deprive us of, its green spaces. While you might not be able to totally immerse yourself in nature, you can still fill your living space with houseplants and indoor trees. There are plenty of studies to suggest that being surrounded by nature can help to promote relaxation, which is reason enough to bring some greenery into your home. Plus, it can also help to absorb sound, which is an added benefit.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Here are three tips for designing a meditation area at home.

Pick the Right Location

All it really takes is a small room or quiet alcove, however, if you have a tranquil view to help you settle into a relaxing mindset, thats certainly a bonus.

Create a Zen-Like Atmosphere

A simple cushion or mat where you can sit comfortably is all youll really need, but a few plants and objects can contribute to the ambience.

Tap the Senses

Another way to make this a tranquil space is to tap into your senses with warm lighting, relaxing aromas and peaceful sounds.

Published with permission from RISMedia.