CAN DECLUTTERING REALLY MAKE YOU FEEL BETTER?

May 2, 2019

Pittsburgh Fitness Project

The spring season always brings a fresh start. Flowers popping up, spring cleaning, shedding the winter blues – the season is filled with inspiration for change. Between the spring weather and a book I just finished (Outer Order, Inner Calm by Gretchen Rubin), I’ve been thinking a lot about the way that peoples’ headspace can be affected by their homes and workplaces.

This has got me thinking: is there a link between decluttering your physical space and a person’s mental state? How does one’s physical space affect your mental state (or does it even?).

DECLUTTERING FOR SPRING

The book assumes that the spaces you spend your time do affect your happiness. After some reflection (and putting these principles into practice in my own home), I tend to agree! When there is less that the eyes have to take in, that helps the mind to focus on just what it needs to. So, in my office, I have minimized the number of photos, quotes, nick-nacks, and papers on my desk. And I have noticed that I have been getting distracted less often and come home slightly less fatigued.

At home, I cut back on decorations land nick-nacks as well. As a result, the most surprising thing happened: I have been reading so much more! The only difference I have made in this timeframe was cleaning up my space. So, I cannot help but wonder if that allowed my mind to rest and spend energy on something I love to do.

After reading this book, finishing my spring cleaning, and donating several boxes to Goodwill, I can say that the changes I have made have absolutely made a positive difference in my mental state.

HOW ABOUT YOU?

Have you found this to be true in your life? Why or why not? Comment below and let’s have a conversation.

Emily Eichner: PFP Holistic Lifestyle Coach