When it comes to destressing, the last thing that might cross your mind is cleaning. But before you jump to judge, cleaning can actually be a great method for achieving that relaxed state of mind. And many people use it as a therapeutic way to clear and clean out their thoughts, while of course, cleaning up the house as well. It’s a win-win situation that can really benefit you on those days when you just need to decompress. Here’s why:
Eliminating Physical Clutter Can Help Eliminate Mental Clutter
Many people will agree that after you clean and declutter your home or even your closet, you instantly feel great. It’s almost as if your mind feels lighter and refreshed. That’s because it really does! Chaos often instigates chaos, and living in an environment that is messy and disorganized can be overbearing for your own state of mind and body.
If you’re doubtful of this, try cleaning out one room in your home and leave another in a messy state. Then spend a few moments in each of them. How do you feel?
By eliminating the physical clutter, you can drastically help eliminate your mental clutter.
Meditate as You Clean
The great part about cleaning is that you can also enjoy some meditative properties as well at the same time. When you’re focused on cleaning, your mind has a tendency to shut off or at least focus on the one task at hand – cleaning. This allows all of those other pestering thoughts to dissipate. This is really what meditation aims to achieve as well. It’s a good way to shut your mind off, at least for a little while.
Get in Some Exercise
For any homeowner who has a flight of stairs that require weekly vacuuming, you probably know far too well how cleaning can provide you with some physical exercise. Whether it’s vacuuming, mopping, or gardening – all of that bending, climbing, reaching, and sweeping are great for getting your body moving. And when you’re feeling stressed, physical exercise is one of the best ways to alleviate those negative feelings. This is due to the fact that our “feel good” hormones and endorphins are released into the body whenever you exercise.
The next time you feel as though your stress levels are getting the best of you, use that negative energy to clean house! Before you know it, you’ll feel great and have a tidy home to relax in. Win-win!
