Creating a Relaxing Outdoor Oasis with Style and Fun Activities

I don't know if it's you, but I've realized that if I don't actively create space to relax, I just… don't. Life gets obnoxious, work finds its way into the weekends, and before I realize it, three months have gone by since I sat outside without a list in my hand.

That's why I constructed a small outdoor sanctuary, a place that is quiet, cozy, and my own. No amenities; just an area where I could relax, breathe, and do whatever it is I like (even if that's simply lounging around and doing nothing whatsoever).

Here's what I learned, and how a pop up canopy, a chaise lounge sofa, and even a guitar kit ended up being part of how I created a vibe out of this random hunk of the patio.

First: Give Yourself Some Shade and Structure

So I started with a pop up canopy. And honestly, this made all the difference.

It wasn't simply about keeping the sun out (although, yes, my pale skin adores it). It was about creating a "room" in the outdoors. Once that canopy was installed, the space was defined. It was a place. A place I wished to be.

I didn't make it too complicated, just bought a neutral-colored one, added some fairy lights to it, and voila. If you're short on time or cash, a pop up canopy is just what you need. Install it when you want it, and store it away when you don't. No hassle.

Second: You Need One Place to Unwind

I've had those thin plastic chairs in the past. You know, the ones. They creak when you shift your weight and somehow can hurt your back even though they're made of nothing.

This time I splurged and got myself a real chaise lounge sofa, and I swear I now understand why cats sleep 18 hours a day.

It's all about comfort. Yet there's a little something in that weird feeling your legs stretch out, reclined back, and not at a perfect 90-degree angle. That is, the body becomes aware: "Chill time!" 

Add a blanket, a cute throw pillow, and maybe a book you might pretend to read but will mostly hold while scrolling through TikTok, and you're good!

Then: Add Something Unexpected (and a Little Magical)

This may be strange, but I purchased one of those guitar kits, the type where you assemble and finish your guitar.

I'd never tried something like it before, but I said why not? I like music. I needed a weekend project. And let me tell you; it was oddly therapeutic. Sanding wood, picking out the color for the paint, putting it all together… It was intimate. Like I was creating something for myself.

And now the guitar just hangs out there, leaning against the wall. Now and then I pick it up and play a bit (terribly), every now and then friends drop by and grab it and know what they're doing. Either way, it adds a different kind of energy to the room. Something creative. Impromptu. Real.

And when the sun starts to set and someone starts playing a few notes? That's the kind of memory you won't soon forget.

Bonus: Little Things Matter More Than You Think

Aside from those three things; the canopy, the lounger, and the guitar, I added a few personal details:

• A lantern I found at a second-hand store

• An old speaker that still works if you don't yank it around

• A small herb planter (mostly because rosemary smells amazing)

Nothing crazy. But now, that room is home. Not Pinterest-perfect. Not Instagram-perfect. Just real. Cozy. Safe.

Final Thought

If you have thought about making your outdoor area more chilled-out, get it done. Don't wait on a huge renovation budget or perfect weather. Start small. Add what you like. Don't worry about matching sets or what's trendy in decor.

You'll need a bit of shade (pop up canopy), a place to lounge back (chaise lounge sofa), and something you love (guitar kits, anyone?).

Because sometimes the best way to refill isn't going out, it's making a corner of it feel like peace.