Creating a Daily Routine to Reduce Homesickness for International Students
Making a daily routine is one of the best ways to deal with homesickness while studying abroad. A routine gives structure to your day, makes you feel more in control, and helps reduce feelings of loneliness. When international students follow regular habits, it becomes easier to adjust, focus on studies, and stay emotionally strong.
Why Having a Routine Helps with Homesickness
Making a daily routine is one of the best ways to deal with homesickness while studying abroad. A routine gives structure to your day, makes you feel more in control, and helps reduce feelings of loneliness. When international students follow regular habits, it becomes easier to adjust, focus on studies, and stay emotionally strong.
Why Having a Routine Helps with Homesickness
Living in a new country can feel overwhelming. Everything is different—food, language, people, even daily schedules. This sudden change can increase stress and make you miss home more.
A routine helps because it:
- Brings order to your day
- Makes life feel more predictable and safe
- Supports better sleep and health
- Gives a sense of progress and achievement
- Creates regular chances to connect with others
Simply put, a routine gives stability when everything else feels new.
Important Parts of a Healthy Daily Routine
1. Start Your Morning Calmly
How you begin the day affects your mood. A peaceful morning routine caused a peaceful day.
- Wake up at the same time daily
- Do light stretches or breathing exercises
- Eat a healthy breakfast
- Write down tasks for the day
These habits reduce stress and prepare you for classes.
2. Balance Study and Breaks
Studying without breaks can increase stress and make homesickness worse.
- Use the Pomodoro method: study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. After four rounds, rest a little longer.”
- Go outside during breaks for fresh air
- Study one subject at a time instead of cover many subject at same time
- Keep study hours consistent
This balance improves focus and prevents burnout.
3. Eat at Regular Times
Food is a big comfort when you’re far from home.
- Have meals at set times each day
- Cook or eat familiar dishes from your culture
- Share meals with friends or roommates
- Try local food slowly, to enjoy new experiences
Regular meals act as anchors that bring stability.
4. Move Your Body Daily
Exercise is one of the best ways to improve mood and fight stress.
- Walk or jog outdoors
- Join a gym, sports club, or dance class
- Try yoga or at-home workouts
- Even 20–30 minutes daily is enough
The World Health Organization (WHO) confirms that regular exercise lowers stress and improves mental health.
5. Stay Connected with Others
Loneliness increases when you don’t plan social time. Add it to your daily routine.
- Set times to call or video chat with family
- Eat or have coffee with classmates
- Join student clubs or cultural groups
- Attend support groups for international students
Even small daily conversations can make you feel less alone.
6. Create a Relaxing Night Routine
Sleeping well helps your brain stay sharp and keeps your feelings balanced.
- Avoid using mobile phone when you are on bed.
- Write in a journal or read something light
- Listen to calming music or stretch gently
- Set same time for daily sleep and wake up.
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) says healthy sleep is key for emotional balance.
Tips to Keep Your Routine Consistent
- Start small: Add one or two habits at a time
- Be flexible: Adjust if something unexpected happens
- Use reminders: Set alarms or calendar alerts
- Celebrate progress: Notice small wins and keep going
A daily routine is not just a timetable—it’s a way to take care of your mental health. For international students, routines bring comfort, reduce homesickness, and make adjusting to a new life easier. By setting regular times for studying, eating, exercising, and connecting with others, life abroad can feel less stressful and more rewarding.
Frequently Asked Question (s)
How fast can a routine help with homesickness?
Most students feel better in a few weeks, but only if they stay consistent.
What if I miss a day?
That’s okay. Don’t feel guilty—just return to your routine the next day.
Can student clubs be part of my daily routine?
Yes. Joining clubs is a great way to meet people and feel at home.