UNCLUTTER YOUR MIND: The Benefits of Decluttering Spaces Mind & Body Conn e ct i on Written By: Debra Carr, LMSW, ACSW, CFSW Finding a sense of peace and calm can feel like a distant dream especially when you feel like you are carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders. Experiencing the loss of loved ones suddenly, inheriting the task of removing things out of our home coupled with the added emotional baggage has caused me to reflect and regain a sense of balance amid the noise and clutter in my mind and personal spaces. While navigating the reality of a new normal, one still must function dealing with numerous demands and competing priorities of daily life. These demands often make us feel physically and emotionally drained. Surprisingly, one of the keys to unlocking a peaceful state of mind can often be found right in front of us by decluttering all aspects of our lives. The simple act of decluttering has proven to be a productive way to restore peace and calm for our minds, body, and spirits. The positive effects that come from decluttering offer a pathway to serenity amid the chaos within today’s living. THE SCIENCE BEHIND DECLUTTERING Recent studies document a compelling link between a clutter-free environment and reduced stress levels. When our physical spaces are organized, our minds follow suit. Studies reveal people living in cluttered spaces experience elevated cortisol (stress hormones) levels than usual throughout their day and even at night causing restlessness and anxiety. However, when spaces are free from clutter, there is a notable decrease in stress hormones. Imagine walking into a room where every item has its place. Clutter causes our body senses to work overtime on unnecessary stimuli. Additional research further adds a cluttered home and mind negatively affects our brain’s cognitive functioning making it more challenging to make good decisions. Some people living in cluttered homes report feelings of shame and embarrassment. They rarely invite guests over, which can lead to isolation and deeper feelings of despair. Often, the more cluttered a home is, the less motivation and energy you have to tackle the challenge of decluttering. For some people, this can lead to a disorder called hoarding, where decluttering becomes unbearable. These realities further exacerbate feelings of stress and add to feelings of confusion, irritability, depression, and frustration which negatively affects mental wellbeing. CLEARING THE MENTAL FOG Decluttering acts as a mental reset button, it allows us to cut through the noise and concentrate on what truly matters. Our minds are constantly bombarded with information and stimuli, contributing to a cognitive overload that impedes focus and productivity. Think for a moment of your to-do-list, errands, projects, and other responsibilities that quickly add up during the day. Other challenges may be related to simple things like finding your keys when you need them or looking
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