Over the past two years, we have been cleaning and scrubbing much more diligently than we had previously. The presence of a new and dangerous virus meant that we were purchasing disinfectants and antibacterial products at an alarming rate, causing shortages to some of the cleaners that we relied on for routine cleaning practices.
During what many consider to be an inconvenience, there is a benefit to maintaining and practicing cleaning habits. Both mental and physical benefits are attributed to the cleaning and decluttering one’s immediate space. Studies have shown that areas that are cluttered/disorganized can cause fatigue and depression and can increase the amount of cortisol, the stress hormone. Peripheral objects and distractions may lead one to believe that they are not as productive and less successful as they might be had these areas been organized.
The benefits of cleaning and decluttering are well documented, as there has been significant interest in just how well the brain works when presented with certain environments. Cleaning helps one gain a sense of control of the environment. Studies at the University of Connecticut found that in times of high stress, people will sometimes divert to cleaning and decluttering to maintain a sense of control during chaotic instances. The mind and body are looking for ways to agree about projects and apply focus. When considering how the mood is affected when practicing even simple cleaning tasks, a study published in the journal Mindfulness found that people who were mindful when washing dishes—in other words they took the time to smell the soap and to take in the experience—reported a 27% reduction in nervousness, along with a 25% improvement in "mental inspiration."
Sometimes, just cleaning can be a daunting task. Here are some tips for getting started.
- Start Small: Pick an area or task that can be accomplished easily. A big "to do" list rarely gets done.
- Set a timer: Give yourself an hour, and see how much you can get done.
- Ask for help: This is one of the more difficult tips. Sometimes we are ashamed or worried that our clutter will be judged. Choose someone who genuinely wants to see your environment improve. Nadiah Gardner and Nina LaRue cleaned the Wellness Director’s office, making the area easier for me to use to write this newsletter. It works!