These nature-inspired tips will help you turn your home into a stress-free haven.

* Bring the outside in. Flowers, plants and wood induce the feeling of being close to nature. Mix tall and short plants to create a balanced and natural look. Combine terra cotta and glazed planters with metal plant stands to add variety, texture and height. Choose colorful flowers that appeal to your sense of smell and accent your decor.

* Increase the amount of natural sunlight in your home. Scientific reports show that natural light can yield tremendous psychological and physiological benefits. While windows and skylights are commonly used to let sun into the home, replacing solid doors with French-style ones can provide the same effect.

For example, Jeld-Wen's Aurora Simulated Divided Lite doors come in a variety of configurations, allowing you to choose how much light you want to let into your home. The doors replicate the beauty, texture and weight of real wood, but are engineered to resist the effects of water and inclement weather.

* Decorate with natural accents. Flooring and window shades made of natural materials such as wood or bamboo can add balance and comfort to your home. Natural stone or faux stone ceramic tiles accented with area rugs in muted, natural colors also will give your home an earthy feel. Look for green, brown and rustic hues in fabrics, prints, rugs and accessories.

* Incorporate sounds of nature. This can be accomplished with an indoor water fountain or by simply playing recordings of your favorite nature sounds.

For more information on special windows and doors to help bring the outside into your home, visit the Jeld-Wen Web site at www.jeld-wen.com.