"The Psychology of a Clean Space: How It Affects Your Mood"

Clutter and Stress: Understanding the Connection

More an more people are reporting feeling stressed in what is suppose to be their own safe-space environment, their home! Which brings to question, why? The human brain has a limited capacity for processing a lot of information at any given time. And when surrounded by clutter and multiple visual stimuli, it goes into a complete sensory cognitive-overload. Which leads to mental fatigue, and impaired focus along with you guessed it, rising stress-levels.

Cluttered environments activate our body’s stress response and the brain interprets the disorder as a potential threat, triggering a mild but chronic fight-or-flight response and it varies from person-to-person. This ongoing state of low-grade stress can eventually contribute to anxiety, and depressive symptoms which over time can lead to the feeling of overwhelm. So, how can this be resolved?

The Bookshelf Conundrum

In order to create balance, the best thing to do is to keep your space tidy and organized. When your space is clean it helps promote relaxation and proper mental clarity. Now a days even the most tidiest of homes can still have a little clutter. Let me explain: picture walking into a home and it is clean, organized and it even smells good but your eyes wander off over to say.. the left and you notice a bookshelf so you walk up to it.

The bookshelf is filled with books all neatly placed and at first it looks really nice. However, as you examine the shelves, you see that the second shelf is so full that more books are then stacked horizontally in front of the upright ones, hiding some of the book titles. Then you see random knick-knacks, necklaces, figurines, sports patches, and containers of pens scattered around, and a binder stuffed with papers and bills shoved between the pile of books. This type of scenario is a common one, not everything is as it first appears.

Does this sound familiar? We all fall victim to this and I like to call it the bookshelf conundrum. And to be honest the same types of small amounts of clutter can be seen not only on bookshelves but also desks, kitchen tables, drawers etc. So, with that said did you feel the stress-levels rising just now? I did.. But don't worry even with the smallest of clutter there is always a way to tackle it.

Make Organizing a New Habit

To avoid clutter in general, organize items into designated spots and avoid stacking more items on surfaces that already have items on it. Hang keychains and necklaces, use separate bins or drawers for papers and bills. Keep everything tidy and doing this consistently for 30-days will build a new organizational habit, making organizing effortless for you. This method works not just for bookshelves but throughout different surfaces and many other areas of the home.

Another simple tip: Making your bed before leaving your room can also boost your mood. Any amount of decluttering that you can do in and around your home will instantly reduce stress.

The Impact of Color and Scent on Mood

Did you know that colors and scents can also affect your mood? Have you ever wondered why when you go into, say.. a hospital, they choose softer colors that are easy on the eyes? Most hospitals select these colors because they create a calm and soothing environment, which helps reduce stress and anxiety for not only for patients but also visitors too. Soft, gentle hues promote relaxation and healing, making any space feel welcoming. And darker colors will sullen a mood and often make people feel anxious or depressed. So, give color some thought next time you are designing the inside or outside of you home, the color you choose might just impact your mood either positively or negatively.

Lastly, scent! We all love a good smell, and the world of scent is growing—there are so many amazing fragrances available today, from essential oils and candles to diffusers and room sprays. A pleasant scent can instantly uplift your mood, create a welcoming atmosphere, and even help you relax or focus better. Incorporating your favorite scents into your space is a simple yet powerful way to enhance your environment and overall well-being. If you could make your home your ultimate sanctuary of peace and calm, what would you do differently?