Feeling overwhelmed, stressed, stuck, impatient - need advice

[Peacefulbird]

I found the end of day tidy up a frustrating and depressing part of the day so just a note on toy room disasters: Having very large containers that snap or screw closed, or bags that zip closed, helps. This way, the very young or naughty children can't undo all the effort. I was getting frustrated by toys being dumped over again - same feeling as shovelling snow when it's starts snowing again! I have several containers that sort blocks, balls, dinkie cars, play food, stuffies, etc and they stay shut. The older kids like the sorting. The containers I use are empty house projects ones from Canadian tire or bulk protein shake containers. The plastic zip bags I use are from bought pillows or comforters. I punched small holes in the plastic for safety. For washing the toys I just take a container to the kitchen sink and then dry everything in a big colander or on tea towel. Small changes can help improve things while figuring out what u want to do.

I used to think same, while picking all sorts of toys. I decided to apply the "less toys; more joy" ideas. And it absolutely made a huge difference, now when I get in my playroom I feel inspired I feel in peace, I want to spend more time in there even my teenager mentioned that she feels relaxed and inspired in that room. The children are more engaged it is peaceful. I discharged large quantities of toys, I've read articles and textbooks about setting up children environments. I bring few toys and rotate them weekly also books. I have set up more hands on activities very attractive. It definitely helped on how I feel working there everyday. I enjoy it, they are happy and it makes me happy.

I have the following thoughts to share;

Our playrooms are our work place, during winter we spend most time indoors, shouldn't it be inviting, inspiring, motivating, relaxing to you too? And not just the children? I've read some books, they were amazing it was informative to know on how even choosing relaxing colours helps our mind state. Or on how over stimulation and stress occurs when you see flashy colours or messes also the light plays a role on it.

Try to make it look very a tractive and soothing to you too. Think what is that you like most (flowers or plants, relaxing vacation pictures or your own family pictures or the scent of cookies and vanilla candles, cinnamon in your tea, etc)