“How Does Your Physical Environment Affect You and Your Mental Health?”

I recently read an article from Newport Institute suggesting that our everyday surroundings have a powerful influence on our mood and emotions. 

The conversation surrounding this topic is figuring out the link between physical environments and emotional well-being. For example our bodies and senses are influenced not only by visually noticing the things around us, but also when we are unconscious. 

What resonated with me the most was that many students who spend all day in their rooms,  on their computers, working remotely or attending virtual college classes, are still continuously “taking in various stimuli like the temperature, scents and noises in the room” as their senses are still active.

The article is also sure to point out that “color impacts mood” so considering painting your room, or even one wall of your room a light, bright color not only “reflects light but can help boost mood.” 

This article helped me decipher a project I plan to take on here at Skyline. SkySquad–Skyline’s very own restorative justice community–is rooted in resolving conflicts in a peaceful manner. They do this through “Circles” , an alternative to immediate suspension that is led by trained upperclassmen. 

As of now circles take place in what SkySquad calls the “SkySquad’s Den” a tucked away office monitored by counselors and administration in the equality office. Circles are meant to offer an environment for students seeking to discuss their conflicts with one another peacefully. I plan on contributing to this goal by offering an interior decoration; a wood painted custom sign/plaque. The sign will not only help decorate the room, but will also hold many of SkySquad’s core values on it. 

I think in my pursuit of helping SkySquad, I am also helping the Writing Center in reinvigorating its reputation. The Writing Center is not only focused on helping itself grow as a community, and resource, but is also eager in helping others as well.