Spring Cleaning: Mental Health and Organizing

Decluttering and spring cleaning season is upon us. It is no shock to know that our mental health is tied to our physical state- of clutter or organization. Mental well-being can lead to better sleep, a clearer mind, and improved relationships lower depressive thoughts, etc. etc.

Finding spots for your belongings can be an increasingly difficult task in a consumer driven society. Online shopping is quite literally at our fingertips and delivery services are more convenient than ever.

Sometimes the task can feel daunting, often there are ties to the things you need to organize or sort through, perhaps you’re grieving the person who these belonged to or they have a special meaning that makes it difficult to part with. If that’s the case, start slow, with a small space, or short amount of time. Organizing can leave you feeling exhausted so have compassion in your experience. Find support in sorting. Sorting through your parent’s belongings with a sibling or someone else that knew the original owner or the special tie to the item can feel better than making all the decisions solo.

Here are some ways to get started:

1. Listen to music or set a timer. Start with 10 minutes and see what items you can come up with to pass on.

   
   

2. Pick a meaningful place to pass on items. Is your nephew moving to a new apartment and in need of kitchen supplies? A young family in need of kids clothing or toys? Is there a neighbourhood garage sale weekend or a “free page” in your community?

   
   

3. And my favourite one of all. When you buy a new piece of clothing or kitchen utensil or accessory etc, swap it out for an old one. Did you neeeeed another sweater or can this new one replace one of the other ones that you no longer wear?

   
   

The most important part is just to start. Start slow. Start with support, but just get started. See the benefits for your mental health and continue from there.

If you feel like you could benefit from additional support for your mental health or grief and you are located in Ontario. Please reach out. Rural Refresh is a counselling agency supporting adults in Oxford and Perth county (and virtually across Ontario), who are experiencing loss or transitions.