Imagine this: you’re feeling overwhelmed, and your first instinct is to clean your room. It might sound counterintuitive, but there’s a reason why this simple act can make you feel better. The connection between our living spaces and mental health is more profound than we think.
In the world of Feng Shui a cluttered room is believed to create energetic stagnation. But beyond ancient philosophies, modern psychology is uncovering how our surroundings significantly influence our mental state.
The psychological toll of clutter
Thea Gallagher, PsyD, a clinical associate professor of psychiatry at NYU Langone Health describes the mental chaos caused by clutter as “mental noise”. This noise can manifest as distraction, irritability, or a sense of being overwhelmed. Naomi Dambreville, PhD, a licensed clinical psychologist and assistant professor in the Department of Psychiatry at Mount Sinai agrees, noting that persistent clutter can even trigger anxiety and mental fatigue.
Our brains are constantly processing information from our environment, even when we’re not actively paying attention. This means that piles of clothes, stacks of papers, or dirty dishes can all vie for our attention, making it difficult to focus or relax. Gallagher explains that attention and memory are closely linked, so when our attention is constantly divided, it becomes harder to concentrate and retain information.
However, the impact of clutter is subjective. Some people may not be bothered by a disorganized room, while others might find it highly stressful. It’s essential to recognize that clutter is a personal experience shaped by our individual standards and desires.
The mental benefits of a decluttered room
Decluttering your room can have several positive effects on your mental health. Here are four key benefits:
Enhanced focus
An organized space can help reduce the visual and cognitive competition caused by clutter. When you eliminate “mental noise” your mind can focus better on the task at hand. Gallagher notes that this can make it easier to concentrate on what you’re doing.
Improved relaxation
Your bedroom is your sanctuary for rest. Decluttering this space can create an environmental cue that signals the end of the day, helping you unwind and prepare for sleep.
Increased self-efficacy
Taking care of your space can give you a sense of agency. When life feels chaotic, doing something small but concrete to make your environment more manageable can be surprisingly regulating. It serves as a visual reminder that you’re taking steps to improve your life.
Boosted Dambreville suggests thinking of decluttering as a form of self-care. When your space is more organized, it reduces your mental load and helps you function better. It’s a way of practicing feeling worthy of a clean, comfortable, and safe personal space.
Practical steps to declutter your room
Decluttering doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Here are some easy ways to start:
Start small
Gallagher recommends making the task almost ridiculously small. Instead of thinking about cleaning your entire bedroom, start with putting away five pieces of clothing or cleaning one nightstand. Set a timer for five minutes and see how much you can accomplish in that short period. Every little bit counts.
Outsource if possible
If you can afford it, consider outsourcing the task. Gallagher points out that we outsource many things we’re not good at or don’t have time to do, and cleaning should be no different. Our time is a valuable resource, and sometimes, it’s worth investing in help.
Be kind to yourself
Both Gallagher and Dambreville emphasize the importance of not being too hard on yourself about any mess or clutter in your room. Life happens, and decluttering is doable, no matter how big the task might seem. Remember, being good at keeping a house clean isn’t a measure of your character.
Make it fun
Making the task more enjoyable can motivate you to keep at it. Dambreville suggests gamifying the process or rewarding yourself for completing the task. You can also play music, listen to an audiobook, or even call a friend to help you.
Remember, the goal isn’t perfection. Decluttering your room won’t magically solve all your problems, but it can be a small step toward feeling less overwhelmed. It’s about figuring out what kind of living environment helps you and your brain function better. As Gallagher puts it, the benefit comes from creating an environment that feels manageable and supportive to you.
