Spring Cleaning Benefits for Mental & Physical Health!
The physical act of cleaning helps reduce stress!
What is it about spring that makes you want to box up the tchotchkes and embrace an open concept? Nature’s abundance and renewal after the long winter spur us to transform our surroundings, clean out the garage, and cull the sock drawer. This desire to declutter may have additional benefits beyond an empty laundry basket. Indeed, studies show that reducing clutter lessens distractions, allowing the brain to focus on important tasks.
Spring Cleaning Benefits
1. Decluttering Boosts Productivity
The saying “clean space, clean mind” is backed by science. The more clutter you see, the more easily distracted your brain becomes, reducing its ability to process information. And looking at beautiful things (that gleaming table with a vase of posies) stimulates creativity. Likewise, the reward and pleasure centers of the brain are triggered.
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2. Spring Cleaning Reduces Stress
The physical act of spring cleaning helps reduce stress and makes you feel more in control of your life. Accomplishing a goal and creating an attractive space promotes a positive self-image and can also reduce fatigue. Reduced fatigue means energy for a walk, and exercise can give hours of relief from depression and lessen the likelihood of an anxiety disorder by 25%!
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3. Encourages a Better Night’s Sleep
Sleep deprivation can affect self-image, appetite regulation, outlook, and optimism. In a survey by the National Sleep Foundation, 73% of respondents said they got a better night’s sleep on fresh sheets. You can read more in our article below.
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4. Spring Cleaning Improves Breathing and Reduces Allergic Reactions
Dust and dust mites live in and on bedding, upholstered furniture, carpets, and curtains, prompting allergies and asthma. In the U.S., studies show that those with allergies are 1.5 times more likely to have major depression. Allergies are also associated with high anxiety. Dusting and vacuuming reduces allergens and lets you breathe easier!
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When you clean your home, office, or outdoor spaces you can improve both physical and mental health. Reducing clutter triggers the reward and pleasure centers of the brain, improves breathing and sleep patterns, reduces stress, and even prevents physical injury. Clean with a friend and share the sense of accomplishment and goodwill.
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, eating disorders, or co-occurring mental health conditions, don’t wait to change your life – click the link below to speak with an admissions specialist.
