Combat The Clutter

We’re blessed to live in a place that’s a tropical paradise year-round.

Yet, even in Florida, the change of seasons signifies a reason to refresh. Spring is about renewal, rebirth and a fresh start. It’s the stereotypical and quintessential time to hit the reset button.

For some, spring brings out our inner cleaning gene. We feel the urge to go Marie Kondo on our home and make it shine. For others, spending time tidying, sorting, dusting and scrubbing is a chore to cross off the to-do list. Regardless of your approach, spring cleaning benefits mental and physical health.

“Cleaning and having a neat, tidy environment has been shown to promote mental health,” says Anastasia Leondis, a licensed mental health counselor and national board-certified counselor who is the owner and founder of Boca Behavioral Health, LLC, in Boca Raton. Leondis explains that studies have shown people report lower rates of anxiety when they’re in a neat area rather than a messy one.

Here are some additional spring cleaning health benefits.

Less Stress

Leondis says many people report a calming or cathartic response to organizing. It’s an outlet to release stress. It can give you a renewed sense of control if you’re feeling overwhelmed. You’ll have peace of mind with a home that is clean and organized.

A Sense Of Accomplishment

Our brain feels happy when we finish a task. And that decreases tension and boosts confidence, allowing you to tackle another goal you’ve set for yourself, like cooking or exercising. “Something as simple as grouping similar items and placing them in a drawer or closet can provide a sense of accomplishment,” she says.

Leondis suggests organizing your silverware drawer or folding bath towels and placing them in neat piles. “This is an example of how small successes can impact how we feel.”

Safety

You’re less likely to trip when you have a clutter-free floor. That’s important for older adults who are prone to balance issues and little ones who are just learning how to walk.

Exercise

Run the vacuum up and down the stairs. Clean the windows. Scrub the floors. Cleaning requires physical exertion. Doing so can help you get steps in and burn calories. It’s not a substitute for exercise, but nothing bad comes from being active.