On Instagram, there’s been substantial growth in the number of big-name cleaning accounts – people can’t get enough of it. They utilise various cleaning products (some that shouldn’t be mixed!), and their homes are gleaming and spotless.
Many have stated that cleaning is beneficial to their mental health and channels their anxieties into productive activities.
There is no doubt that Mrs Hinch, The Home Edit, and Marie Kondo are all synonymous with cleanliness and decluttering.
What is the psychology behind decluttering?
People who live in a neat and organised environment are more likely to be physically and mentally well. At the same time, there is a balance to be found between what you can and can’t do, no guilt if it takes weeks to get it done.
What is the research behind the claim?
It has been shown that individuals who routinely clean and tidy feel more at ease within their homes. According to the researchers, people who live in busy and dirty settings have higher cortisol levels (the stress hormone).
Everything from getting the sofa tidy enough to sit on to doing the dishes falls under the decluttering banner. It doesn’t take much but can make a difference.
It’s also a good idea to take a look at your cleaning routine. For example, if you conduct speed cleaning, you raise your heart rate, beneficial to your physical health. If done slowly and thoughtfully, it may be calming and valuable to your mental health.
So, here are a few of the benefits you can get from giving your home a good decluttering.
Better Sleep
To get a perfect night’s sleep, you need a good mattress and the best bed you can afford from Divan Beds Centre.
According to a study by the National Sleep Foundation, people who make their beds in the morning are 19 per cent more likely to enjoy a decent night’s sleep. Make your bed every day, and you’ll start the day on the right foot.
Happy Hormones and Cleaning
When it’s time to clean, many individuals choose to turn on their favourite tunes. You end up exercising as a result of an active cleaning session and music that you appreciate.
Endorphins, as we know, are released during physical activity.
If you’re feeling stressed or anxious when doing chores, you can lower your stress levels by listening to your favourite music and letting your mind focus on the beat or the lyrics. In addition, having a friendly, tidy house makes you feel better about yourself.
More Relaxing
People who work from home often burn candles while working, and equally, those who are having a spa day. According to several studies, there is a strong connection between the sense of smell and good mental health.
As a result, aromatherapy can help alleviate feelings of worry and despair. You will be affected by a room that doesn’t smell properly or is a little dusty.
As soon as you’ve finished cleaning and organising your home, lighting a candle is the final thing you should do.
The following scents are worth a try:
- The smell of lavender is known to have a calming effect.
- Lemons, limes, and oranges have an uplifting effect on the senses.
- Aromas of pine have been shown to alleviate tension and anxiety in Japan by evoking the impression of being in a forest.
- Rosemary and peppermint essential oils might help you stay focused.
Don’t worry if your cleaning has taken a toll on you recently; it happens to everyone, even those who don’t talk about how messy things are now.
De-cluttering and cleaning are the first steps to managing your messy tendencies.
Better Focus
Although our brains are unique in how much they can process at once, there is a limit to how much they can safely handle before getting overloaded.
When we know there is a mess; our brains focus on it – even when we are meant to be working on something else.
It doesn’t take long before we lose focus, and the mess will begin to sabotage our ability to concentrate. Something like dishes in the sink or vacuuming that needs to be done will be put away your attention will be sidetracked.
If you can’t tackle all the decluttering in one day, or it feels overwhelming – set 60 seconds timers and do whatever you can within those timers.