As the days grow longer and the promise of warmer weather rolls in, the annual ritual of spring cleaning beckons. It's a time-honored tradition that extends beyond simply scrubbing floors and dusting shelves; it's about refreshing our living spaces and, perhaps unexpectedly, rejuvenating our mental well-being. The benefits of spring cleaning on our mental health are undeniable, and as a busy mother of three boys, I can always use a good excuse to do some decluttering!
Decluttering. Sigh. It sounds so taxing, doesn’t it? However, I’ve found that clearing out the excess belongings that have accumulated over the year can feel like shedding a layer of stress. It's a chance to reassess what we truly need and what we can let go of—a skill that can be liberating beyond the confines of our closets. For me, I struggle to get rid of my kids’ toys. With each piece I pick up to trash, I find myself pining for the days gone by when they were just a little younger, a little more innocent. What I wouldn’t give to be able to travel back in time! I have to remind myself that clinging to old, broken toys and random legos will not change the present situation. It won’t freeze time. What it WILL do is build up as junk thrown into the bottom of their closets, ultimately leading to more stress for me when I open it.
To make the decluttering process more manageable, it helps to break it down into smaller tasks. Set aside specific blocks of time to tackle different areas of your home, whether it's a closet, a drawer, or a corner of the living room. Start with the easiest areas first to build momentum, then gradually work your way up to the more daunting spaces. As you sort through your belongings, ask yourself if each item serves a purpose or brings you joy. If not, it might be a good time to toss it. I use this rule with my clothes. My closet, originally designed in 1963, is TINY. I guess people did not accumulate clothing in the 60s like I tend to (haha!). This forces me to evaluate every hanger. If I have not worn something in a year, it gets donated. Plain and simple. I have found that reminding myself that someone else less fortunate might enjoy wearing it. It actually feels rewarding in that sense!
Another tip is to enlist the help of a friend or family member. Not only does having a second pair of hands make the process go faster, but it can also provide accountability. Plus, sharing the experience with someone else can turn an otherwise tedious task into some time well-spent with each other.
Once the decluttering is done, don't forget to organize what's left. Invest in storage solutions that maximize space. Labeling bins and baskets can also help ensure everything has its place, making it easier to find what you need when you need it.
Ultimately, spring cleaning isn't just about sprucing up our physical surroundings—it's about creating space for mental clarity and renewal. By decluttering our homes, we declutter our minds. So embrace the season of renewal, roll up your sleeves, and let the cleansing begin. Your home—and your mental health—will thank you for it.
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