Why Do Some Spaces Exhaust Us While Others Calm Us?

Article Level: A1-A2

Explanation: The article explains how different spaces affect our feelings and energy. It shows how noise, light, colours, space, and order can make us feel tired or calm, and why familiar places often help us relax and feel safe.

Commonly Used Words from the Article

1. Space /speɪs/ (noun): An area or place.

This space feels open and calm.

2. Noise /nɔɪz/ (noun): Loud or unpleasant sound.

The noise from traffic is strong.

3. Calm /kɑːm/ (adjective): Relaxed and peaceful.

She feels calm in the park.

4. Crowded /ˈkraʊdɪd/ (adjective): Full of people or things.

The room is crowded and noisy.

5. Comfort /ˈkʌmfət/ (noun): A feeling of ease and safety.

This place gives me comfort.

Phrasal Verb

Lead to /liːd tuː/ : To cause a result or situation.

Too much noise can lead to stress and tiredness.

Idiom

At ease /ət iːz/ : Feeling relaxed and comfortable.
He feels at ease in quiet places.

Audio File of the Article

00:00

Have you ever walked into a place and felt tired very quickly? Or have you entered another place and felt calm and happy at once? This is not a coincidence. The spaces around us can change how we feel, think, and act. Some spaces exhaust us, while others help us relax and feel safe.

One important reason is noise. Loud sounds, traffic, or many people talking at the same time can make us feel stressed. Our brain works harder to understand all these sounds. Over time, this can lead to tiredness and stress. Quiet spaces, on the other hand, help the mind rest. A quiet room, a library, or a park allows us to feel more relaxed.

Light is another key factor. Very bright or harsh light can hurt our eyes and make us uncomfortable. Very dark spaces can also feel heavy or sad. Soft, natural light often helps people feel better. Sunlight supports our body and mind, helping us stay calm and focused. This is why many people enjoy sitting near windows or spending time outside.

Colours also play a big role in how we feel. Strong colours like bright red or yellow can feel exciting, but they may become tiring if we see them for a long time. Soft colours such as blue, green, and light grey often create a calm feeling. These colours remind us of nature, like the sky, water, and trees. Being close to nature helps people feel at ease, even during busy days.

Space and movement are also important. Small and crowded places can make people feel uncomfortable or tense. When there is little space to move, the body may react with stress. Open spaces help us feel free and relaxed. This is why many people like wide beaches, parks, or rooms with high ceilings.

Order and cleanliness also affect our mood. Messy spaces can confuse the brain. When many things are out of place, the mind tries to focus on everything at once. This can cause stress and tiredness. Clean and simple spaces are easier for the brain to understand and help us feel calm.

Finally, personal meaning matters. A space that feels safe and familiar can relax us, even if it is small. A favourite chair, a quiet room, or a cosy café can bring comfort. These places often connect to positive memories.

In short, spaces affect our energy through sound, light, colour, space, and personal meaning. When we understand this, we can choose environments that calm us instead of exhausting us.

Grammar Notes

Present Simple for facts and general ideas
Example: “Spaces affect our energy.”
Cause and result structures
Example: “Noise can lead to stress.”
Simple adjectives to describe feelings
Example: calm, tired, comfortable

Tip: Use the present simple to talk about things that are always true.

Join Our FREE English Grammar Course and improve your grammar skills!

Five Questions Based on the Article

How can loud noise affect the brain?
Why is natural light good for our mood?
Which colours often make people feel calm?
How do crowded spaces affect the body?
Why do familiar places help us relax?

Join Our Weekly English-speaking Class and improve your speaking skills!

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Join the conversation by leaving a comment below. Sharing your insights, questions, or experiences can help you connect with others in our English learning community. It’s a great way to practice your English skills, engage with like-minded individuals, and improve together. Don’t be shy—jump in and let’s keep the discussion going!