As much fun as it is, living away from home can sometimes get both stressful and lonely. As someone who has lived by myself at university for the last two years, I have come to learn what sort of things help me get through these dark times. Here is a compilation of 10 things to have in your dorm room that will help you de-stress:
1. Himalayan Natural Crystal Salt Lamp
A close friend of mine gifted me a Himalayan salt lamp for my 18th birthday, and it is now of my favourite things in my room. These lamps are said to have positive benefits such as cleaning the air of your room, boosting your mood, and giving you a better sleep. Plus, they’re actually a really great source of light that is more unique than a typical lamp, while being a really cute decoration! I love to use this lamp when I’m working in my room at night.
2. Record Player
Record players complete rooms, there I said it. If you have a record player, your dorm room is automatically cool. The look of a record player on a corner table or even the floor, with a box of records beside it is one of the most aesthetically pleasing sights to look at. Not only will your room feel relaxing, but the right record will rid of your stress for sure.
3. Poetry Books
Not everyone loves poetry, but having a book of poetry in hands reach is sometimes a good idea. Poetry is simple to read, so it’s a great activity for de-stressing when you don’t have much time to spare. The writing is also just so beautiful that it’s naturally soothing to its readers!
4. Candles
When I lived with my parents, I was literally forbidden from lighting candles. Now, candles are my absolute best friends when it comes to studying. The warmth and the scents make the atmosphere calming, and automatically put me in the mood to get work done.
5. Something from home
Having something from home with you at university is a great way to avoid feeling homesick. When feeling lonely, you will always have something with you to remind you that you’re not alone! For me, I have birthday cards written from my family and friends that I can read if I ever miss the people closest to me.
6. Personal photos
Whether it be a polaroid wall or a photo album, pictures of your friends, family, and pets are essential to your dorm room!
7. Customized pillow/ blanket
It’s common for people to customize blankets with pictures of their family or pets on them before moving away for school. This is a cute way to always have your loved ones with you when you need them (and is especially helpful when missing your pets!). Stores like Walmart and Staples offer this service.
8. Art
In my opinion, every house needs art. Whether you’re living at home, or in a dorm room, art is a really important attribute to make your surroundings feel like a home. This of course will make one feel less stressed. Universities have poster sales a few times a year – these are great places to shop for wall decorations! Another really awesome shop is Society6, where you can also find some other super cool dorm stuff!
9. Plants
Having plants in your dorm room will give you something to take care of, reminding you to take care of yourself as well! I like to have succulents as they are much easier to take care of and keep alive, when school gets busy it sometimes gets hard to remember to do simple things like water your plants.
10. Calendar
Because most of university stress comes from due dates and deadlines, having a calendar on the wall of your dorm room can help assure you that you’ve got it all covered.
