Modern collecting behaviors spurring contemporary stress levels exemplified
In the sanctuary of our homes, where we find solace and joy, it's essential to maintain a space that brings us peace. However, research suggests that a cluttered environment can have adverse effects on our mental health.
A study from Princeton University found that physical clutter can affect our ability to concentrate, impairing decision-making and causing mental fatigue. This is due to the increased visual stimuli that our brains must process in a cluttered environment [1][5].
Clutter can also trigger increased production of cortisol, the primary stress hormone. Chronically elevated levels of cortisol due to clutter cause tension, anxiety, irritability, and impaired mental focus [1][3][4].
The perception of one’s home environment as cluttered or uncomfortable correlates with lower psychological well-being and decreased life satisfaction [1][2][3]. Clutter can impair sleep quality, further exacerbating mood disorders and cognitive difficulties. Improving order and cleanliness promotes better sleep, emotional stability, and positive feelings [1][2].
Not all clutter is bad; perfectionism within homes can be equally unhealthy. It's important not to blame oneself if struggling with home organization due to mental health issues, and seeking professional, medical help is advised [8].
However, taking steps to declutter and clean can have numerous benefits. Slow cleaning offers numerous mental and physical health benefits, including reducing stress and anxiety, boosting productivity and focus, promoting physical activity, and providing a sense of accomplishment [4].
A handy checklist for cleaning, focusing on one room and tackling one aspect of the list every day, has been created [9]. This approach breaks cleaning down into manageable steps, helping to avoid overwhelm and stress.
Decluttering methods can be extended to all spheres of your life. Interior experts suggest using warm colours like red, orange, and yellow to stimulate energy, while cool colours like blue, green, and purple can create a calming effect [7]. Using natural materials like wood, stone, and plants can bring a sense of calm and serenity to your home [10].
Using scents like lavender, vanilla, and jasmine can help create a relaxing and calming atmosphere in your home [2]. Using art can express your personality and style, and can also serve as a conversation starter [10].
'Slow cleaning' is a concept that combines the practicalities of cleaning with mindfulness, creating an enjoyable process [6]. This approach encourages taking your time, enjoying the process, and appreciating the cleanliness that results.
In summary, the scientific basis behind clutter's impact on mental health involves increased sensory input overwhelming cognitive processing, chronic activation of stress pathways (notably high cortisol), emotional distress linked to feelings of disorganization and lack of control, and consequent effects on mood and sleep. Reducing clutter can help alleviate these stressors and improve mental well-being.
References: [1] Neat & Tidy: The Health Benefits of a Clean Home. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/neat-and-tidy-health-benefits-of-clean-home
[2] Clutter and Mental Health: A Look at the Connection. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.verywellmind.com/clutter-and-mental-health-2795552
[3] Clutter and Stress: How to Minimize the Impact. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.helpguide.org/articles/stress/clutter-and-stress-how-to-minimize-the-impact.htm
[4] The Benefits of Cleaning for Mental Health. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-power-prime/201609/the-benefits-cleaning-mental-health
[5] The Link Between Clutter and Cognitive Overload. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-power-prime/201609/the-link-between-clutter-and-cognitive-overload
[6] Slow Cleaning: The New Approach to Housework. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/slow-cleaning-the-new-approach-to-housework
[7] How Colour Affects Mood and Emotions. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.verywellmind.com/how-color-affects-mood-and-emotions-2795465
[8] Mental Health and Decluttering: A Guide for Those Struggling. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/mental-health-and-decluttering-guide
[9] The Ultimate Cleaning Checklist: A Step-by-Step Guide. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.thespruce.com/cleaning-checklist-for-everyday-tasks-3431802
[10] 10 Ways to Bring Calm and Serenity to Your Home. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.verywellfamily.com/ways-to-bring-calm-and-serenity-to-your-home-4178488
- Engaging in crafts like crochet and knitting, which are often done at home, can help alleviate stress and improve mental well-being, as part of a comprehensive approach to slow cleaning.
- To create a calming home environment, consider incorporating home-and-garden elements such as warm colors, natural materials, and plants, as suggested by interior experts.
- In addition to decluttering, focusing on lifestyle and health-and-wellness practices like employing mindfulness during cleaning, using soothing scents like lavender, vanilla, and jasmine, and expressing your personality through art can contribute to a healthier mental state.
- It's crucial to maintain a clean, organized home to promote better mental health; however, remember that perfectionism can be harmful and may lead to unnecessary stress, so seek professional help if needed.
