Chances are, you’re spending a lot more time in your dorm than you would like this semester. Without your family visiting or friends coming over to your dorm per usual, there doesn’t seem to be much incentive in keeping your room sparkling clean. What if I told you that having a clean room will improve your well-being and academic success? According to a study carried out by Darby Saxbe, a researcher and psychology professor at USC, subjects who described their living spaces as messy or chaotic had higher levels of cortisol, a stress hormone. Thankfully, the physical acts of cleaning, such as bending down, scrubbing, moving boxes, etc., all work as forms of movement and exercise that help combat the aforementioned negative effects. A cleaner, more organized dorm room can help reduce anxiety and negative feelings, especially during times of uncertainty. Be sure to set aside some time this week and gift yourself a tidier, stress- free environment.
References:
Team, The Maids, and Name *. “Does a Clean House and Mental Health Go Hand-in-Hand?” The Maids Blog, 17 Sept. 2019, www.maids.com/blog/does-a-clean-house-and-mental-health-go-hand- in-hand/.
