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Debbie Travis: Designers rock when it comes to helping you relax

The simple motion of rocking back and forth is synonymous with good feelings. Soothing and relaxing, rocking eases tension and induces rest. A rocking chair is a mother’s best friend in the nursery.
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The Joya Rocker and footstool are handcrafted with an eye on the environment and modern design.

The simple motion of rocking back and forth is synonymous with good feelings. Soothing and relaxing, rocking eases tension and induces rest.

A rocking chair is a mother’s best friend in the nursery. The motion mimics the movement a baby feels in the womb. Studies suggest that the act of rocking releases endorphins that relieve anxiety and elevates mood.

Former U.S. president John F. Kennedy was a great proponent of the rocking chair, insisting that it relieved his chronic back pain. He even took his rocker with him when he travelled.

There are several designs and types of rockers, including gliders and reclining gliders. Dating to the 1800s, the iconic Bentwood rockers were made by bending and shaping wood while it was wet (or green).

Today the rocker is available in designs that have a distinctively modern edge, but they share the same soothing qualities.

Monte Design’s Joya Rocker has a compact footprint and has been thoughtfully designed with a new mother’s comfort in mind.

It has ergonomic arm height and a high back for exceptional comfort. It includes a lumbar pillow that can be used to support the back, neck or elbow when holding the baby. The rocker base options are solid walnut, white or clear maple. High-density foam fill is free of any flame-retardant chemicals.

The contemporary lines of the Rockwell Bassinet matches the modern nursery in size and design. It has a streamlined chrome stand with solid walnut rocking feet. The soft upholstered basket can be removed and transported to different rooms. The basket’s protective sides are covered with removable and washable fabric. It comes with waterproof mattress pad and fitted sheets.

Monte Design has chairs that suit the size and energy of toddlers and young children. Their Cubino seats are made of thick, durable foam covered with a soft, strong micro suede.

They are lightweight, and the foam holds its shape for years. The seat cushion and the covers are removable and machine-washable.

Monte Design specializes in modern furniture for nursery and kids as well as a Home Collection of chairs and sofas. Their designs have a small footprint that works well in any space.

The Mitchell Swivel Chair is compact and curved, sitting on a circular stainless steel swivelling base. It is available in a choice of fabrics and two-tone with genuine Italian tan leather.

Monte (montedesign.ca) sends free samples on standard fabrics.

Written by Debbie Travis and Barbara Dingle. Readers can email questions to house2home@debbietravis.com. Follow Debbie at debbietravis.com.