Refresh Your Space

University life can get busy, loud, and unpredictable. Having a space which feels like yours can make all the difference. Whether you are living in student accommodations, a shared home, commuting from home, your environment plays a massive role in how you feel day to day.

A cluttered or chaotic space can make it harder to study, relax, and focus. Good news is, a big budget and a full room makeover is not a requirement in creating a calmer, more sustainable space. A few minor changes can make your room feel more balanced, personal, and supportive of your wellbeing. It is also nice to be kind to the planet too!

Bring Nature Indoors

One change to make with your space is by adding plants. Why? Plants make spaces feel more alive and fresher. Also, caring for them can be surprisingly grounding.

Begin this change at a small scale with a Spider plant, succulent, or peace lily are all low maintenance options which aid in purifying the air and bring a bit of green into your day. If you are new to plant care, set a simple reminder to water once a week.

Once again, you do not have to spend much either. IKEA, Wilko, B&Q, Sainsbury’s or even local gardening shops and supermarkets often sell small plants for under £5 to £10. Do not worry if real plants are not your thing, dried flowers or realistic faux greenery can add the same calm vibe with no upkeep.

Also, it is vital that you open your windows daily. This is the simplest step you can make. Fresh air and natural light can transform your space and help reset your mood.

Decluttering

There is some truth in the minimalist saying of “less stuff, less stress”. A cluttered room can make your mind feel cluttered too. So, a quick daily clean up can do wonders for your home and mental space.

A tip I have for you is to set a ten-minute timer each morning or evening to clear your desk, fold the clothes you have left on your bed or desk chair, and put things back where they belong. It does not have to be perfect, just enough to make the room feel breathable again.

If you happen to find items or other things you no longer use, consider donating them to charity shops or sell them to earn yourself some extra money.

Simple storage baskets or boxes can also help keep things neat and easy to find. Especially in shared spaces. Some good ones I can personally recommend are SKUBB, DRÖNA, and VATTENTRÅG boxes from IKEA.

Additionally, decluttering can also be done digitally. Whichever smartphone you use, I am sure you have seen your storage nearly full despite you not having many photos, videos, files, and apps installed. It is important to declutter your devices so that there is not an invalid excuse to purchase a replacement at an unreasonable price. Some recommendations for you when decluttering your devices:

·      Offload apps on your phone rather than uninstalling them

·      Deleting emails with large attachment files that are no longer necessarily needed

·      Clear browser cache history

·      Delete redundant files

·      Creating a good habit – adopt a “one-in, one-out” rule

·      If you have not accessed a file, email, or app then consider deleting it

Relaxation Zone

Even in the smallest of rooms, you can create a little pocket of calm just for yourself.

It could be a corner of your desk, a spot by your bed, or easily your favourite chair or stool. Add a warm lamp, candles, or LED alternatives, and a soft blanket too. Keep your favourite journal, book, console, DVD, or tea mug nearby. Slow down and catch your breath with whatever helps you.

Having a space that signals concrete boundaries being placed between work, studying, and downtime lets your mind be free to you, and you only, in that moment.

Go Sustainable

The changes made to your space does not have to come at the planet’s expense. Some sustainable variations can save you energy and money:

·      Using LED bulbs  - Longer duration and uses far less electricity

·      Swapping single-use wipes for reusable cloths

·      Repurposed glass jars from sauces, jams become pen holders or mini plant holders

·      Vinted, eBay, Freecycle, and local charity shops for affordable second-hand décor

Small changes like these can help you live lighter and often make your room feel more creative, adds personality, and authenticity.

Mindful Mini-Habits

A healthy mind works extremely well with a healthy space, and it is key to have both to flourish. Some small routines which can make a big difference can be:

·      Opening your curtains upon waking up to let in natural light

·      Changing your bedsheets and covers regularly (instantly lifts your mood)

·      Setting aside a day each week for tidying up, refresh, and preparing for the week ahead.

·      Turning chores into self-care by having music, television shows, or films playing whilst doing so.

Affordable items that make a big difference

·      Small desk plants from Sainsbury’s, B&Q, or Prickle for £3 to £10

·      LED Lamps with warm lights from IKEA, Dunelm, or Argos for £10 to £15

·      Crocheted/knitted throw or blanket created by a small crafty business (£10)

·      Essential oil diffuser or scented candles from Amazon, Muji, or H&M for £10 to £15

·      Interior Dehumidifier packs from Amazon and B&Q for £3 to £10

Think of these as small investments into your wellbeing which can make a big difference in the long run.

Refreshing your space is not about perfection. It is about creating a little pocket of calmness where you can recuperate, think, and rest.

Whether it is a plant on your desk, sunlight through your window, or an organised corner that feels like peace, your space should support you.

A few mindful choices can help you create a home that reflects who you are, helps you breathe easier, and reminds you that wellbeing begins where you are.