Urban Bali at Home: Creating a Natural and Culturally Grounded Wellness Space

Bali’s global association with wellness has been documented for years in tourism research, environmental design studies, and reports from organizations such as the Global Wellness Institute.

Much of this association comes from the integration of greenery, open-air layouts, natural materials, and slower spatial rhythms found in many homes, cafés, and community spaces across the island. These environmental features are frequently noted by researchers and travelers as contributors to a sense of restfulness.

Bali - Green with open layouts and use of natural materials

This article outlines how to reflect those environmental qualities, in a respectful and culturally neutral way, within a home setting.

Environmental and Cultural Context

Rather than focusing on religious or ceremonial elements that belong to Balinese culture, this article centers on spatial and environmental attributes that are widely accessible and non-symbolic. Many structures in Bali incorporate natural ventilation, consistent exposure to greenery, and materials that age well within a tropical climate.

These design features align closely with research from environmental psychology showing that exposure to natural elements—plants, natural textures, and daylight—can reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

A 2018 systematic review and meta-analysis published in Environmental Research found consistent associations between greenspace exposure and positive health outcomes, including reduced cortisol levels, lower heart rate, and improved self-reported health. This provides a clear scientific foundation for integrating nature-oriented elements into indoor environments.

The goal here is to translate these widely recognized environmental characteristics (not cultural or spiritual rituals) into a home space that feels calm, natural, and restorative.

Core Elements of a Bali-Inspired Home Wellness Space

These elements are accessible to most households and do not rely on stylistic imitation.

1. Plants That Introduce Visual Calm

Greenery is one of the most noticeable environmental features in Balinese spaces. Indoors, a few plants can soften edges and create a sense of natural enclosure. Options include:

• Pothos

• Monstera

• Snake plant

• Parlor palm

Strategic placement—rather than quantity—is key.

2. Natural Textures and Materials

Materials commonly found in Balinese homes, such as wood, cotton, and rattan, can be incorporated without referencing specific cultural motifs. Consider:

• Cotton throws or cushions

• A woven or rattan stool

• A wooden tray or bowl

• A stone dish for water

These additions provide warmth and tactile grounding.

3. Airflow, Natural Light, and Reduced Sensory Noise

Bali’s indoor–outdoor living patterns rely on ventilation and natural light. At home, these qualities can be reflected through:

• Opening windows when possible

• Using lighter curtains

• Creating a space free of screens

• Choosing warm, ambient lighting

These adjustments help distinguish the corner as a designated wellness space.

4. A Single, Repeatable Daily Ritual

The space becomes meaningful when paired with one simple daily action. This ensures accessibility without constructing an elaborate wellness routine.

Examples include:

• Quiet sitting for a few minutes

• Light stretching

• A warm towel compress

• Preparing herbal tea

• Slow breathing

The emphasis is consistency!

A Simple “Urban Bali” At-Home Routine

1. Sit in your designated space with natural or soft lighting.

2. Place a small bowl of warm water nearby; optional additions include lime slices or a drop of lemongrass oil.

3. Use a warm hand towel for a brief compress on the shoulders or face.

4. Take slow, steady breaths for two to three minutes.

5. Conclude with a warm, non-caffeinated tea such as ginger, chamomile, mint, or lemongrass.

The purpose is to create a predictable transition into a calmer state.

Research in environmental psychology and public health consistently identifies benefits associated with exposure to natural elements. By integrating greenery, natural materials, gentle sensory cues, and small rituals, you can build a home environment that mirrors some of the nature-forward qualities observed in Bali’s built spaces.