Spring Cleaning for the Mind: Decluttering for Mental Health
As the daffodils start to poke their heads out in my garden.it feels like spring might be finally on the way. Now I’m not the worlds biggest cleaning fan ( I’ll leave that to the likes of Mrs Hinch!) but I do love a good de clutter. I used to really struggle keeping on top of the tidiness but once I started to really declutter it became easier.
But it’s not just the physical clutter that leads us to feeling overwhelmed, is it?
Mental clutter can also feel overwhelming. The endless to-do lists, the constant worry about our children, and the emotional load of keeping everything running smoothly—it’s a lot. But just as a clutter-free home can bring calm and clarity, so too can a decluttered mind.
Why Decluttering the Mind Matters
When our minds are cluttered, it’s harder to focus, make decisions, and find joy in the day to day. Mental clutter often leads to anxiety, stress, and even feelings of being stuck.
By taking the time to declutter your mind, you’re not just making space for calm—you’re also creating room for the things that truly matter.
Steps to Spring Clean Your Mind
Here’s how you can start your mental spring cleaning:
- Write It All Down
Grab a notebook or your favourite app and do a brain dump. Write down everything that’s swirling around in your head—tasks, worries, ideas, and even those random things like “buy more socks.” The act of putting it all on paper can immediately make your mind feel lighter.
- Challenge the Clutter
Once you’ve got everything written down, take a closer look. Are there worries or tasks that don’t actually belong to you? Can you delegate, delete, or delay anything? Be ruthless.
- Set Boundaries for Your Time and Energy
Spring cleaning the mind isn’t just about clearing out—it’s also about protecting your mental space. Say no to commitments that don’t align with your priorities and set boundaries around your time.
- Practise Mindfulness
Mindfulness is like tidying up your thoughts in real-time. Take a few moments each day to pause, breathe, and focus on the present. Apps like Calm or Headspace can be helpful, but even just a quiet moment with a cup of tea can work wonders.
- Create a Self-Care Routine
Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential. Build small moments of joy into your day, whether it’s a walk in the fresh spring air, a good book, or a long bath.
Decluttering Your Home and Mind
Spring cleaning your home and mind often go hand in hand. A tidy, organised space can have a calming effect on your mental state. Start small—perhaps by clearing out that one drawer or donating clothes you no longer wear.
As you declutter your physical space, notice how it makes you feel. Often, clearing out the external clutter can inspire us to do the same internally.
Join the ‘Spring Cleaning: Mind and Home’ Challenge
This March over in my private Facebook group A mothers Mind I’m inviting mums to join my Spring Cleaning: Mind and Home Challenge. Together, we’ll tackle the overwhelm, declutter our minds, and create space for what really matters. Please come and join in!