Her Campus Logo Her Campus Logo
morning stretch
morning stretch
Bruce Mars via Unsplash
MSU | Wellness

The Art Of Romanticizing Your Routine: Little Luxuries That Make Life Better

Nethra Ganesh Student Contributor, Michigan State University
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at MSU chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

To romanticize your routine doesn’t mean you have to act as if your life is flawless, rather, it means to offer more attention to the subtle and minor details that lend a bit of gentleness to your day. In a society fixated on efficiency and perpetual activity, the act of deliberately decelerating to incorporate minor indulgences into daily experiences can seem nearly revolutionary. However, those instances frequently have the greatest impact on our feelings of calmness, connection, and being grounded. 

Small indulgences can be inexpensive. Often, they revolve more around attention than expense; dedicating a few extra minutes to make your coffee just the way you like it, stepping into sunlight between classes, or playing music that fits the mood you want instead of the one you woke up in. These small gestures of care can transform your day from something you’re merely enduring, to something you’re genuinely experiencing. 

Your morning routine is one of the easiest places to begin. While you prepare, lighting a candle, donning jewelry — even if your destination is just campus — or even using a beloved body wash, can make your day start differently. Incorporating small details into a routine gives it an intentional feel, as opposed to one that feels automatic. They assist you in beginning the day with the feeling that you are important, and that a few additional minutes for your comfort and happiness are worthwhile. 

To romanticize your routine also entails noticing the beauty in the everyday. A tidy desk can create the impression of a new beginning, and a carefully curated playlist can transform a stroll across campus into the main character moment that everyone secretly desires. Using glassware instead of a plastic cup in your dorm, even though it seems trivial, can contribute to a calmer and more mature atmosphere in your space.

These habits won’t solve everything. Even so, life can still become chaotic, taxing, and uncertain. However, by romanticizing your routine, you can establish comforting pockets that allow you to better cope with difficult moments. It transforms mundane days into something more cozy and gentle, into something that feels like it belongs to you. 

Fundamentally, the practice of romanticizing your routine is not centered on aesthetics or perfection. It involves living with intention and approaching the daily routine with greater kindness. And at times, that is sufficient to render everything a little more lovely.

Nethra Ganesh

MSU '27

Nethra Ganesh is a sophomore at Michigan State University, majoring in Neuroscience with a minor in Bioethics, and currently pursuing a pre-law track. As a member of HCMSU, she is excited to be part of a dynamic academic community and is passionate about exploring the intersection of law, ethics, and science. With aspirations of attending law school, she aims to blend her interests in neuroscience and bioethics with a legal career, particularly in areas where healthcare, science, and policy intersect.

Before starting college, Nethra gained valuable professional experience working as a lifeguard during high school, developing strong leadership, responsibility, and crisis management skills. In addition, she is the Marketing Director for MSU Her Campus, where she utilizes her digital communication and community engagement skills—experiences that have enhanced her ability to manage multiple responsibilities.

Outside of academics, Nethra has been passionate about Carnatic singing her entire life, and music continues to play a significant role in her personal and creative expression. She also loves to write and is eager to expand her horizons in that field. When she’s not studying or singing, you’ll likely find her taking long walks with friends, enjoying nature, or indulging in her love for music.