The impact of clutter on mental health – some practical tips
In today’s fast-paced world, many of us juggle multiple responsibilities. While it's normal to have a busy life and an imperfect home, clutter can quickly become chaotic, and lead to stress, anxiety, and even depression. Mess and disorder creates visual noise that distracts us and makes it difficult to focus, so we feel confused and overwhelmed. Research shows a clear link between cluttered environments and increased stress levels.
Clutter can raise levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, especially in women, who often bear a larger share of the mental load in managing household tasks. Reminders of unfinished tasks keep our minds in a state of constant alert, making it nearly impossible to relax.
This cycle of stress creates a challenging environment for both mental and emotional health, so we need practical solutions that cultivate a calming space in our homes and enhance our wellbeing.
Creating a calm home for a busy life
To create a little more peace and less stress, consider the principles of sensory design. This approach focuses on how our surroundings affect our senses – sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste. Here’s how to implement sensory design in your home, organise your space and promote mental wellbeing:
1. Declutter for mental clarity
Assess your belongings: Regularly think about things in your home and decide which ones no longer serve a purpose or bring you joy. Use the KonMari Method, which encourages you to keep only the items that “spark joy,” creating a more meaningful connection with your possessions.
Remove unneeded items: Make some room by getting rid of things that contribute to clutter.
Simplify your space: Creating a simpler environment will save you time and reduce stress when it comes to tidying up. If you have too much stuff, you’ll spend a lot of energy tidying, so keep it simple.
2. Organise smartly
Smart storage: Buy some practical and stylish storage solutions to keep your home tidy and visually appealing. Use furniture with built-in storage, like ottomans or coffee tables, to hide clutter, make clean up easier and encourage everyone to put things away.
Organise for living: Arrange your furniture to promote a sense of flow and space. Keep pathways clear and position seats to encourage connection and conversation. A well-organised space helps you relax and encourages social interaction, which is essential for mental health.
3. Textures, natural materials and plants
Indoor plants: Choose varieties like peace lilies with large leaves and rounded edges to improve air quality and create a calming atmosphere.
Soft textiles: Cushions, throws, and rugs made from natural fibres like cotton, wool, or jute will add warmth and invite touch.
Weighted blanket: This provides deep pressure stimulation, which helps to reduce anxiety and give you a sense of safety.
Natural artwork: Hang art that depicts tranquil landscapes or calming scenes to reduce stress and help you relax.
By blending these elements, you can create a harmonious living space that nurtures your mental wellbeing.
4. Mindful lighting
Natural light: Make the most of your natural light by using sheer curtains and strategically placing mirrors to reflect sunlight. Natural light not only brightens spaces but also elevates mood and improves productivity.
Dimmable and adjustable: Use dimmable lamps so you can adjust brightness to suit the time of day and what you’re doing. Soft, warm lighting in the evening creates a calming atmosphere, promoting relaxation and getting you ready for a good night’s sleep.
Layered lighting: Use a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting. For example, a table lamp for reading with soft overhead lights can create a cosy nook perfect for taking it easy.
5. Sound and smell
Soft furnishings: Rugs and curtains will absorb sound and reduce echo.
Calming sounds: Play some chilled-out music or nature sounds as a soothing backdrop.
Essential oils: Use a diffuser with essential oils like lavender or chamomile.
6. A calm corner
Your retreat: Create a specific space in your home dedicated to relaxation.
Minimise distractions: Keep this area free from anything that might disturb your peace, and fill it with things that bring you joy.
Comfort items: A cosy chair, soft blanket and meaningful decor can transform this corner into a personal retreat. Add the books you love, plants and scents to bring you peace and relaxation.
7. Colour palette
Calming colours: Choose neutral shades, soft greens, blues, and earth tones. Research shows that these colours can reduce stress and anxiety, creating a sense of calm.
Avoid overstimulation: Steer clear of overly bright colours and busy patterns, which can be overwhelming and trigger stress responses. Instead, focus on solid, calming hues.
Transforming your home into a calm space is an ongoing journey. With these practical tips, you can reduce clutter and create an environment that promotes a sense of serenity.
Taking the time to cultivate a peaceful home environment not only benefits your mental health but also gives you a sense of control and tranquillity in a busy world. As you begin this journey, you’ll probably notice a positive shift in your mood. Start small and let the process unfold in a way that feels right for you. Embrace the changes as you create a more peaceful and harmonious home.
