Depresh Mode with John Moe Better Home Design for Better Mental Health with Dr. Beverly Walpole
Sep 1, 2025
Dr. Beverly Walpole, a clinical psychologist and founder of Haven | Wellness By Design, explores how home design impacts mental health. She discusses neuroaesthetics and how elements like lighting and texture can lower stress. The conversation touches on the balance between minimalist and maximalist spaces and their effects on well-being. Dr. Walpole also offers practical tips for creating calming environments, emphasizing actionable steps like optimizing layouts and incorporating nature to enhance mental health.
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Beauty Calms The Nervous System
- Dr. Beverly Walpole links neuroaesthetics to nervous-system regulation: beauty and order reduce perceived threat.
- Small environmental changes can lower cortisol and signal safety to the amygdala.
Home As A Mirror For The Nervous System
- Your home acts like a physical brain and a chaotic space can trigger fight-or-flight responses.
- Overstimulation at home can exhaust you even without leaving the house.
Designating Calm Zones In A Family Home
- Dr. Beverly Walpole keeps designated calm spaces while allowing kid areas to be chaotic for play.
- She balances neuroaesthetic zones with practical family needs in a small home.
