Springtime is a time of renewal and growth, and I’ve discovered there’s no better way to embrace it than by giving my surroundings a little refresh. It’s become a routine that boosts my mental health after the darkness and drabness of winter. As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, taking the time to clean, declutter, and organise my space truly makes a difference to my mental well-being.
Over the years, I've learned that my physical environment greatly influences my mental state. I felt overwhelmed, anxious, and stressed when my space was cluttered and messy, and it became harder to concentrate and stay motivated. On the other hand, a clean and organised space brought calmness and a sense of control — not just for me, but for my family too. I noticed that when the house was tidy, everyone seemed more positive, helpful, and relaxed.
That's when it hit me — creating a positive living and workspace is essential to maintaining my mental health and personal recovery.
Each time I clean and organise, I feel a sense of:
- Achievement: Completing tasks gives me a confidence boost.
- Reduced Stress and Anxiety: An organised space makes me feel more in control.
- Boosted Mood: A tidy environment naturally lifts my spirits.
- Improved Focus: Without clutter, I can concentrate better.
- Better Physical Shape: Cleaning itself is a form of physical activity that energises me.
When I spring clean my space, I resent my mind, and I do it by:
- Breaking Tasks into Small Steps: such as starting with a single drawer or a specific item category to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
- Sorting and Assessing: I take out items that don’t belong and assess what to keep or donate based on need and joy.
- Adding Some Fun: I play uplifting music or listen to an audiobook while cleaning
- Bringing Nature In: opening windows for fresh air and add plants (real or artificial) boosts my mood.
- Rewarding Myself: by treating myself with something relaxing or fun after – like a nice pamper and bath.
Final Thoughts
For me, my home is an extension of who I am—a place where I can proudly express my personality. I noticed a huge difference in my confidence and mood when I started displaying things that made me feel accomplished and happy. It makes me feel safe, content, and proud of my space.
Don’t underestimate the impact of your surroundings on your mental health recovery journey. Spring cleaning isn’t just about tidying up; it’s about giving yourself a fresh start and nurturing your wellbeing.