Spring is finally here! The trees are budding, the days are growing longer, and the sun is shining more and more! You may find yourself diving into your cleaning rituals to tidy up your space, whether it be cleaning out closets or washing windows. But did you know that along with the great physical activity spring cleaning provides, it’s also beneficial for your mental health? Scientific research has shown there is a significant connection between cleaning and mental health! Read on for details and three simple stretches to do before you begin cleaning house.
Housekeeping Boosts Happiness
A survey implemented by researchers at Clorox polled 2,000 people and found that each hour of cleaning done on a weekly basis is associated with a 53% boost in overall happiness. The survey also showed that people who actually enjoy cleaning are also 25% happier overall. Cleaning can also increase your self esteem, because when the tasks at hand are complete, it feels like “a job well done.”
Removing Clutter Decreases Stress
The act of cleaning—and the result of a cleaner home—relieves anxiety, depression and stress. Physical activity boosts your endorphins, which are the feel-good hormones that improve your mood. A study from the University of California, Los Angeles showed that people who describe having a cluttered, messy or chaotic house have higher levels of cortisol, a hormone produced in response to stress. Cortisol isn’t good for your health!
https://www.closetfactory.com/blog/ucla-study-finds-stress-caused-by-clutter/
A Messy Home can Mess with Relationships
A lack of cleaning or disagreements about messes can also affect your relationships. For example, if you and your partner have different viewpoints on when laundry needs to be picked up or dishes put away, this can lead to tension, frustration and irritability. Keeping up with cleaning helps avoid relationship problems. So have frank discussions about household duties and expectations!
A Clean Home Improves Focus
Studies from Princeton University found that messy, cluttered and disorganized spaces cause more stress and distraction. On the other side of the spectrum, in a clean space, people feel a sense of control over their environment and are more focused on the task at hand.
https://paw.princeton.edu/article/psychology-your-attention-please
It is quite interesting to realize the relationship between mental health and cleaning! So, it’s clearly time to recognize that not only does spring cleaning allow us to purge, scrub, dust, and mop out winter’s grime, but it’s also a chance to improve our state of mind! Oh, and don’t forget to stretch prior to cleaning, and to take breaks as needed. Take note below of three stretches you can do to prevent aches and pains!