How to improve mental health?

After reading this post, we’ll see:

• Why you should declutter.

• How I did this when I moved.

• The best decluttering methods.

TL; DR;

Decluttering has many benefits. Better focus, working memory, mental health and energy. Setup a recurring time for this awesome habit & reap it’s benefits.

But why should you declutter?

1. To reduce stress.

   According to research, there is a direct link between clutter and stress. 96 females students aged 18- 25 visited a lab twice, 2 months apart. They experienced a neutral and chaotic living room, both having an infant simulator. The Participants in the chaotic environment showed higher levels of stress.

2. To increase focus.

   According to research, you're overwhelmed by objects not related to your task. This makes it harder to focus on your work. So, clear that work desk today!

3. To improve sleep quality.

   According to research, people who hoard stuff may have serious complaints about sleep.

4. To have a positive impact on your weight.

   According to a study, there's a clear relation between clutter and food intake. Especially unhealthy food.

How I did this when I moved:

4 weeks ago I moved. And got a chance to sell /discard / donate more than 50 items! This is how I did it. I asked myself:

“Does this item spark joy?”

“Have I used it in the last 6 months?”

I got rid of anything that didn't pass this filter. I had to even part with some books!!

It was painful but I feel much lighter now. And I feel like my brain got defragmented 🧠 

The best decluttering methods of all time!!

1. The KonMari method.

   Marie Kondo developed this method. It focuses on keeping items that "spark joy". And discarding those which do not.

2. The 20 - minute rule.

   Set 20 min per day to declutter 1 area of your home.

3. One- in, two - out method.

   For each items that comes home, two items must go out.

4. Peter Walsh's three - box method.

   Sort items into boxes labeled "keep", "donate / sell", and "trash".

I hope this edition helps you reclaim your mind space (for things that matter) 😀 . If you found this helpful, share with someone who will benefit.

Further reading:

• 20 - game - changing decluttering hacks that actually work!