We all know there’s a direct link between anxiety and a fast-paced lifestyle, but have you ever thought that the clutter in your home can affect your mental health? According to Dr. Victoria D. Coleman, a Las Vegas-based clinical behavioral health specialist and mental health counselor, there’s a psychological link between a high density of household objects and higher cortisol levels in humans, especially women, leading to stress and anxiety. A cluttered environment in the home or workspace increases clutter in our minds. You can tidy up your space at regular intervals, but beyond that, you can also adopt a few adjustments to make your living and working spaces healthier for both your mind and body.
Arranging Lush Houseplants
Houseplants are great for making both your room and mind free of clutter. A recent study conducted at the University of Hyogo, Japan, has proven that adding greenery to an indoor environment can increase calmness. The study found that, during a short break in between work, office workers having a plant on their desks experienced a significant decrease in their pulse rates. Also, taking care of potted plants can help to calm your nervous system.
Increasing Natural Airflow
Incorporating healthier air more to your mundane life can have a great soothing impact on you by clearing out the clutter in your mind. As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, simply getting more ventilation in your house and office will do the job. Switching off the AC and cracking the door or the windows when possible is essential to allow natural air to flow. This effectively clears away contaminants like germs, chemicals, and harmful gasses.
Adjusting Indoor Lighting
According to Dr. Susan Albers, a clinical psychologist at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, clinical studies have shown yellow lights to be relaxing and calming. Nowadays, we are surrounded by screens, from laptops to smartphones, all emitting blue light that suppresses melatonin production and aggravates anxiety. Experts suggest installing soft yellow or white bulbs in your bedroom, living room, and workspace to clear out the clutter of both your house and mind.
Setting the Scent-Scape
Aromatherapy is a smart method to clear up your mental clutter by tapping your sense of smell. According to a review in the Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience journal, the protective effect of essential oils, especially the scent of bergamot, is proven for treating anxiety in cancer patients. Put a few drops of any essential oil you like atop a pure wax candle or onto a mini wooden diffuser to fill your room with the calming scent. It’s truly a great way to de-clutter your mind.
Try Some Background Music
Creating a soothing playlist of your choice can be beneficial to clear up mental clutter. According to research, published in the Health Psychology Review, listening to gentle music and natural soundscapes can considerably boost endorphins and lower cortisol. Study participants tuning in to nature-related sounds experienced a decrease in their anxiety and heart rate. Experts suggest checking out calming ambient playlists on Spotify to find out what works for you.