10 October is World Mental Health Day, a good reminder to focus on habits that support our mental wellbeing. One often overlooked form of self-care is maintaining a clean, tidy home. Many people become stressed or frustrated when they encounter clutter, but often feel a sense of relief, even joy, when they are surrounded by order. Whether it's a quick dusting, cleaning off the kitchen counters or tidying a wardrobe, tidying has a surprisingly positive effect on mental wellbeing and often provides a therapeutic release.
Does clutter affect mental health?
Scientific research shows that cluttered spaces can raise stress levels and affect mental health. For example, an unclean home environment can increase stress levels and make it harder to concentrate. This stress is not just emotional; in one study, women with young children showed higher stress markers when their environment was untidy. In addition, visible clutter can also tax the brain, making it harder to focus attention and increasing feelings of anxiety.
However, tidying and cleaning helps to create a calm environment, promoting positive emotions such as calmness or a sense of achievement. Faced with the uncertainty of life, cleaning offers a practical way for people to regain a sense of control and reduce anxiety.
The mental health benefits of cleaning
The cleaning process has many benefits. This conscious activity can improve mood, provide a sense of satisfaction, reduce anxiety and help people feel in control of their environment. From Indiana University research found that people who have cleaner homes tend to be healthier than those who live in clutter. In addition, a study published in the journal Mindfulness discovered that those who mindfully performed tasks such as washing dishes reported a 27% reduction in anxiety and 25% mental clarity.
Some tips for establishing a routine
If you want to maintain a cleaner environment, it's important to start small. Many people put off cleaning because it feels overwhelming, but tackling small daily tasks can make a noticeable positive difference. For example, setting a timer for 15-20 minutes and focusing on one task at a time, whether it's mopping the floor or washing the dishes, can make it much easier to establish a cleaning routine. And if you're struggling to keep up with the cleaning, ask friends or family for help, or even consider hiring casual help.
Eco-friendly cleaning for a healthier soul and planet
CYCLE, we believe that a cleaner home means a cleaner planet. Vegan, non-animal-tested cleaning productsWe've designed cleaning to be an act of consciousness, free from harmful toxins. Whether it's dusting, scrubbing or just tidying up, using eco-friendly products gives you peace of mind knowing you're looking after your health, your home and the planet.
