The communal nature of hostels, while fostering a sense of camaraderie, can be a breeding ground for conflicts. One of the most common issues is the eternal battle between night owls and early birds, often exacerbated by the hostel’s lighting conditions.
For those who thrive on the nocturnal lifestyle, a well-lit room is essential. Whether it’s to finish a late-night assignment, indulge in a captivating book, or simply unwind with a movie, the glow of artificial lights is a constant companion. But for others, darkness is a sacred sanctuary, essential for restorative sleep and maintaining a healthy circadian rhythm.
Imagine sharing a room with a roommate who views the world as their personal disco. The moment the sun dips below the horizon, a cascade of light illuminates the room – from the overhead bulb to the glow of a laptop screen. For the light-sensitive roommate, this is akin to torture. Every flicker and beam is a relentless assault on their sleep, leaving them feeling groggy, irritable, and unable to function
optimally during the day.
Such disparities in light preferences can lead to tension and resentment. The night owl might feel judged for their lifestyle, while the early bird might be accused of being overly sensitive. Of course on nights before tests and exams, both early birds and night owls find common ground; as the bright bulbs borrow them a few hours of victory over the sleep that lurks in the shadows.
The hostel, with its shared spaces, becomes a battleground for competing needs. Corridors, often designed for safety, are perpetually bathed in a harsh, artificial glow, making it difficult for light-sensitive residents to escape the
glare.
The impact of this constant exposure to light extends beyond discomfort. Studies have shown that artificial light at night can disrupt sleep patterns, suppress the production of melatonin (the sleep hormone), and increase the risk of various health issues. As students who rely on sleep for cognitive function and academic performance, the consequences can be severe.
Hostels, being temporary living spaces, often lack the flexibility to accommodate individual preferences. Blackout curtains, while helpful, are not always available or effective in blocking out all light. Earplugs and sleep masks can provide some relief, but they are not a long-term solution.
To mitigate these issues, hostels could consider implementing more flexible lighting options, such as dimmer switches, motion-sensing lights or individual reading lamps. Open communication with your roommates can also help you find a compromise. Perhaps a designated quiet time can be established, or roommates can agree to use earplugs and eye masks during sleep hours.
Ultimately, striking a balance between the needs of all residents is crucial. Hostels should strive to
create environments that promote both rest and productivity, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and respected. By not shying away from the issue of light pollution within hostel settings, we can ensure the well-being of every student, regardless of their chronotype.
Esther Oyesade
