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Relaxation Room offers new campus space focused on wellness

November 28, 2023

Category: Our Community

Photo of the Relaxation Room including a comfortable armchair, artwork and a potted plant

Story by Ashley Mountcastle '27 / Photos by Maple Landis-Browne '27

With students navigating their way through school, life and the transition into adulthood, new stressors and responsibilities become prominent in their lives.  
 
The Relaxation Room, a new resource from Student Health & Counseling Services, is specifically designed with that in mind, offering a peaceful space outfitted with amenities perfect for reducing stress — including soft lighting, yoga mats, comfy bean bag chairs and a smart TV that can play yoga videos or meditation music.  

Coordinator of Wellness Operations Donovan Hill ’21 described the Relaxation Room as an opportunity for students to decompress in a discreet environment away from other students while also connecting with Health & Counseling Services staff who can help them tap into other wellness resources.  

Collage of three photos showing a person working on a laptop in the Relaxation Room, a closeup of a selection of essential oils and a closeup of a potted plant

The Relaxation Room is located on the second floor of the Student Health & Counseling Services building next door to Chalmers Hall. It can be reserved from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays-Fridays by calling 540-375-2286. 

The project is a continuation of the office’s mission to make wellness an intrinsic part of campus life. “Our department is always exploring new channels to integrate wellness into other locations and campus events to normalize the conversation of improving and evaluating one’s wellness,” Hill said. 

The Relaxation Room is one of the several services offered by the department to help and accommodate the students at Roanoke College. In 2020, it began offering TimelyCare, a 24/7 telehealth program, which provides free, on-demand services that expand on the college’s in-person wellness programs. 
 
The Relaxation Room complements that initiative by offering students a quiet, secure space for TimelyCare appointments or other confidential health care calls.  
 
Health & Counseling Services also provides a range of in-person services including medical care, counseling and wellness education. More information is on the department’s website.