Clear your space, clear your mind: how decluttering can be beneficial for our mental health

Decluttering isn't just about having a tidy home; it's about creating a calm space that helps clear our minds and improve our wellbeing. When we get rid of things we don't need, we reduce stress and find it easier to focus. This makes us feel more relaxed and more productive. In this second piece of our series for National Wellness Month, we focus on taking care of our mental health by decluttering. By doing so, we can help reduce stress, think more clearly and enjoy a more balanced and happy life.

Declutter for more productivity and focus

Clutter refers to items scattered around in a disorganised way. Generally, it consists of things people accumulate in their homes that they don't really use but keep anyway. However, research shows that our brains work better in organised environments. Visual clutter drains our cognitive resources, making it harder to focus and process information. Researchers mapped the brain's response to organised and disorganised impulses during tasks. Their findings were clear: decluttering home and office spaces improves focus, information processing and productivity, while also lowering irritability. In 2016, Canadian researchers found that clutter can overload our ability to remember visual information, making it harder to focus. Some people can ignore distractions better than others, but cluttered spaces make it difficult for everyone. Thus, keeping your space tidy can help reduce this stress and improve focus.

Clutter and mental health

Clutter has a significant impact on our mental health. It can increase stress levels, making it hard to relax at home. Clutter distracts our brains, making it difficult to focus and leading to procrastination on important tasks. Additionally, a cluttered environment can make it harder to control impulses and lead to unhealthy behaviours. Research shows that excessive clutter also negatively affects how we feel about our homes, reducing overall wellbeing and life satisfaction.

Create your decluttering plan

To effectively declutter, begin by setting realistic goals for each room and creating a timeline. The aim is to remove items from your house and give them to someone who needs them, such as through donations. Get help from a family member, friend, or professional organiser, as their input can make decision-making easier. Focus on one area at a time during a dedicated timeframe and break the task into small steps to prevent feeling overwhelmed. For items you're unsure about, set an expiration date to decide later, and keep your focus on one task at a time to maintain momentum.

In conclusion, decluttering isn't just about a tidy home; it fosters a calm environment that enhances mental clarity and wellbeing. Removing unnecessary items reduces stress, improves focus and boosts productivity, helping you feel more relaxed and capable. During National Wellness Month, remember that decluttering can lead to a more balanced and joyful life. Start small, stay focused and enjoy the benefits of a clutter-free space, creating a happier and healthier lifestyle.

*Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes. The information, or comments herein, does not amount to, or replace, professional advice and should not be relied upon as or substitute for professional or medical advice from a qualified professional. *