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How To Make Your Room Your Sanctuary

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at U Mass Boston chapter.

I truly believe that our surroundings can have a huge impact on our mental and emotional state. That’s why I make a conceited effort to keep my room clean, tidy, and peaceful – it’s my little haven where I can escape from the stresses of the day. I’ve curated a list of items that help transform my room into a cozy retreat. From soft lighting to soothing scents, these simple additions have made a world of difference in how I feel when I’m in my space. So, if you’re looking to make your space, your own little sanctuary, here are some of my top picks that I think you’ll love too.

Diffuser

A diffuser is hands down one of my favorite things to have in my room. Every time someone steps in, they immediately comment on how it smells amazing. I love experimenting with different scents, especially as the seasons change. In the fall, I’ll switch things up with a cozy blend of cinnamon clove or apple, while during the warmer months, I opt for something fresh and citrusy like lemon or orange blossom. It’s amazing how such a simple addition like a diffuser can completely transform the vibe of a space.

plants

Having real plants in your room is an absolute essential. Not only do they look stunning and add a pop of color to your space, but they also come with a ton of benefits. Studies have shown that having plants in your room can actually help elevate your mood and reduce stress levels, as well as improve air quality. And let’s not forget about the aesthetic it adds. I personally love buying succulents because they require minimal maintenance, are long-lasting, and affordable. So, if you’re looking to breathe new life into your space, add some plants. 

 air purifier

An air purifier is a must-have for anyone who wants to keep their bedroom fresh. With all the dust and pollen, that seem to find their way into our spaces, it can be a difficult to keep our environments free of them. That’s why I swear by my air purifier – it does a great job keeping my room feeling crisp and clean, especially during allergy season. As someone who suffers from seasonal allergies, finding anything that can alleviate my symptoms is super important to me. If you’re looking for a way to improve the air quality in your room, I can’t recommend an air purifier enough.

soft lighting

When it comes to lighting in my bedroom, overhead lights are not my go-to choice. I find that they don’t create a very relaxing ambiance and can sometimes feel too harsh. Instead, I prefer to use softer, warmer light like lamps or string lights to create a more soothing and comfortable atmosphere. There’s just something about the warm glow of a soft light that makes me feel instantly more relaxed and at ease. So, if you’re looking to create a calming environment in your bedroom, I recommend ditching the overhead lights and opting for some softer lighting options.

Noise Machine

A sound machine is absolute essential in my book when it comes to creating a peaceful and restful atmosphere in your bedroom. While you can certainly find apps to create calming sounds, I prefer to use a physical sound machine to help me relax and unwind. I use it every night to fall asleep to the calming sound of crashing waves. It’s become an essential part of my bedtime routine and I can’t imagine sleeping without it.

Creating a peaceful and inviting bedroom can be a powerful tool in combating stress and finding inner peace. By incorporating simple elements like a diffuser, plants, an air purifier, soft lighting, and a sound machine, you can transform your space into a cozy retreat that promotes relaxation and rejuvenation. These additions not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your room, but they also offer a host of health benefits that can improve your overall quality of life. So, take the time to curate a space that makes you feel calm and comfortable – it may just be the key to a happier, healthier you.

Beth Coughlan

U Mass Boston '25

Beth is a sophomore studying management and marketing at the University of Massachusetts Boston. She enjoys watching movies, listening to music, and walking her dog, Oscar.