Spring is officially here, and, for many of us, it’s a time of renewal and a fresh start. It only seems appropriate that it is an ideal time to clean our home and office spaces, thus honoring the tradition of spring cleaning. While the immediate effect of a neater space is obvious (less mess, more breathing room!), there are a few unexpected benefits of spring cleaning that can improve our physical, mental, and emotional health. If you’re looking for a little motivation to dust off those books and finally dig into the back of your closet, here are five amazing benefits of spring cleaning that will have you ready to tidy up right away.
1. Tidying boosts productivity.
Feel like you just can’t get any work done when your desk is cluttered? There’s a reason for that. Studies have shown that it’s difficult for humans to focus when we’re working in a disorganized, cluttered space. It overstimulates the brain and creates the perception of chaos, neither of which are good for checking items off the to-do list. To make sure you reach your goals this spring, take some time to discard unwanted items and create a simple organizational system that works for you.
2. Cleaning improves your physical health.
An unhealthy home can create an unhealthy body. Clean spaces are associated with an increase in physical activity, and those who inhabit them are more likely to make healthy eating choices. If you’re looking to get in shape and lead a more active lifestyle, tidying your space can serve as a better motivator than a fad diet or unhealthy exercise habits. Additionally, if you suffer from spring allergies, cleaning your home can alleviate your symptoms and help you feel healthier all season long.
3. Donating unwanted items makes you feel good.
If you’re cleaning out your home, chances are that you’ll find an item or two that you no longer need. Instead of throwing it away, visit a local donation center and pass your unwanted goods along to someone who might find use for it. Not only is it better for the environment, but it’s proven that charitable acts release endorphins in the brain and activate the region in the brain that’s connected to social connection. That’s some seriously great incentive for passing along that old sweater you haven’t worn in three years.
4. Spring cleaning reduces stress.
When our environment is disorganized, it can actually make us more stressed. Too much stimuli in our surroundings can heighten levels of the stress hormone cortisol in our bodies, causing us to feel flustered and overwhelmed. Obviously, that is the last thing you want when you need to recharge at the end of a long day. To create more peace of mind, simplify your surroundings by clearing out any unwanted items in your home and you’ll be able to feel that unnecessary weight lifted off your shoulders.
5. Decluttering can get the creative juices flowing.
Stuck in an artistic rut? Cleaning the space where you create might be just what you need. Studies have described clutter and too many possessions as pitfalls for the creative process. Minimalism can help our minds to more easily experience mental flow, which is key for creative thinking. Letting go of things that no longer serve you is a fantastic way to create extra space for new inspiration to enter your life.
Do you love spring cleaning? Tell us your favorite perk of tidying up in the comments below!
Also by Ashley: Jump Start Your Spring Clean Eating With These 6 Superstar Foods
Related: 7 Vegan, Cruelty-Free Cleaning Products for Spring
How to Spring Clean Your Thoughts
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