Why Spring Cleaning Matters: is Clutter affecting your health?

Is de-cluttering worth it?

Often with the arrival of spring, we notice a boost in our energy, motivation, and our mood. Many of us use this change in season as an excuse to refresh our homes, and minds with some spring cleaning. Several studies have been published about the benefits of decluttering and cleaning your space which can translate into improved overall wellness and outlook on life. 

WHAT IS CLUTTER?

A 2021 study determined that "clutter" can be broken into 2 categories: subjective and objective. Subjective clutter describes how an individual perceives and experience clutter regardless of its volume. Objective clutter, on the other hand, refers to the tangible items in our home are often not associated with negative emotions. Objective “clutter” is not often perceived as clutter by the individual but normally perceived as items that make one happy or have a memory or purpose associated with it. However, a high subjective clutter, or rather, a negative perception of the “clutter” in your home correlates with more negative emotions.  The findings challenge the notion that clutter, itself, may not always be detrimental, but the subjective experience of that clutter is what can have a problematic impact on wellbeing. So, when looking at how to address clutter, we must all consider person-specific clutter reduction strategies to align the home with the client's self-identity. 

WHAT ABOUT WORK CLUTTER?

Spring cleaning and decluttering do not stop at home. A recent study explored how perceived environmental clutter in one’s workspace increases the employee’s stress level and emotional exhaustion. Interestingly, this article noted that job engagement remained the same, but job satisfaction dropped when an employee perceived their environment to be more chaotic.

Clutter at work can impact job satisfaction and impact your productivity

It is also important to note, however, that clutter is not limited to physical items, which is particularly illustrated in our virtual desktop. Digital decluttering and organizational folders allows for increased productivity and easier completion of daily tasks. If you find yourself becoming overwhelmed and irritated with your technology (Guilty 🙂), take some time to organize your documents and frequently accessed documents into folders for easier access. Use spreadsheets or other digital organizational tools to streamline your day and reduce tech related stress. 

HOW DOES CLUTTER IMPACT OUR FOOD CHOICES?

The stress of clutter and perceived chaos can impact our tendency to overconsume or consume foods we wouldn’t normally. How often are you chugging away on a work project only to get up and grab a sugary snack? (Also guilty….. Guilty while writing this article….). Vartanian, et al, 2016 observed that our self awareness during stressful situations allows us to step outside the reactive nature of our stress response, and choose healthier coping actions, stating that "Participants in the chaotic kitchen and out-of-control mindset condition consumed significantly more cookies (unhealthy food) than those in the in-control mindset condition." However these authors ultimately suggested that while "a chaotic environment can create a vulnerability to making unhealthy food choices, one’s mind-set in that environment can either trigger or buffer against that vulnerability.," emphasizing the role of mindfulness in subjective clutter. For more information on mindful eating, check out our article this very topic!

FINAL THOUGHTS ON CLUTTER

So, as we get excited about opening our windows, airing out our homes, and starting afresh this season, let’s remember the importance of mindfulness as we go about our days. Also, "decluttering" should be tailored to your needs and preferences in order to amplify the positive impact on your well-beining. Here are some top considerations:

1. If you enjoy participating in spring cleaning rituals, always remember to ask yourself what changes to your space will make you feel the happiest and most content

2. What forms of “decluttering” will leave you feeling at peace and inspired? 

3. Interventions should focus on helping you create an environment that reflects your identity and promotes a sense of control. 

The concept of "home" as an extension of self is a key mediator in the relationship between clutter and wellbeing. When the home environment aligns with one's sense of self, wellbeing is enhanced

If you find that you need support decluttering your life, feel free to reach out to Coach Elizabeth. She offers sessions to help with stress management, goal setting and achievement, and work life balance.