Mental and physical health go hand in hand and are essential in life. There are several ways people can de-stress or manage depression. Most people adopt conventional stress-reducing methods like meditation, massage, yoga, etc., while others prefer cleaning and organizing their working or living area to feel calm and comfortable.
Some people derive mental health wellness from cleanliness and staying in a neat environment. According to UNICEF, it is important to use clean water only when cleaning. Several tools (click here) are available to ensure you are using clean water. The study shows that some people de-stress after a hectic day in the sight of a neat and organized house.
Here are some ways cleanliness is connected to your mental wellness, including ways to clean.
Improves Your Mood
By having a cleaner environment, your mind tends to feel happy and comfortable, which reduces anxiety. A study has found that having clean duvets and bedsheets and making our bed every morning when you wake up helps you sleep.
It creates a relaxing environment when you come back home after a hectic day, providing several mental health benefits such as improved overall mood. Additionally, the ADAA (Anxiety and Depression Association of America) says that engaging in cleaning activities.
It not only gives you a cleaner home, but also helps improve concentration, reduce depressive symptoms, fatigue, feelings of anxiety, and stress.
It Helps You Gain Control Of Your Surroundings
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Everyone may feel like they are not in control at some point in their lives. While many people struggle with uncertainties, cleaning can be an excellent way to gain control of their lives.
De-stress by cleaning
It gives people a sense of responsibility and control over their surroundings. The University of Connecticut concluded from a study that some people like cleaning when undergoing high-stress moments to feel they have some control in their lives. On the other hand, disorganization and clutter can get in the way of everyday life by being distracting, making it hard to concentrate on other projects.
It can make you feel stuck and even resort to procrastination. If you feel the need to clean your environment when you are anxious or depressed, your body and mind are looking for a way to be in control.
It Is Essential For Physical Health
Cleaning is essential for mental health, which directly impacts your physical health. There is a strong connection between physical and mental health.
Dr. Nicole Keith, a professor and research scientist at Indiana University, said that studies have shown that individuals with cleaner homes are generally healthier than those who live in messy surroundings. Your working and living environment determine more of your health than the walkability of your neighborhood.
While some people have cleaning as part of their daily routine, it does much more than creating a clean environment for you. It is a great exercise that improves your body and mind function. When we use energy to clean, we remain active hence helping us to stay fit.
This releases endorphins. Endorphins are released in the body to induce feelings of joy or happiness which helps significantly in dealing with stress. Cleaning as a part of exercise helps with this. Endorphins make you happy, elevate your mood, and reduce anxiety.
It Helps You Find Inspiration
Cleaning your premises regularly helps you reconnect with your possessions. How many times when cleaning have you found something valuable you once thought was lost. No words can describe this feeling. Often you find sentimental objects.
Getting lost items helps you re-evaluate their importance which makes you feel good. This impacts mental health positively. Additionally, objects found can help you become inspired to resume forgotten projects or get inspired from thoughts associated with property found. Completing pending tasks will also make you accomplished and healthier mentally.
You Feel More Organised
Ways to adopt cleaning
– Start small by cleaning a little bit every day.
– Set a timer, or have a schedule that you adhere to
– You can involve other people like friend and family to assist
– Get outside help like hiring a person to clean for you once a week
It helps you manage your depression, reduce stress, and help with several other psychological disorders. According to VeryWellMind, several teenagers have used cleaning as a coping mechanism when they are exhausted after studying for several hours.
Also, parents usually distract themselves by maintaining hygiene around the house when experiencing anxiety or stress. Keeping your surroundings clean will prevent feelings of sadness and irritation. If you are least bothered by how your environment looks or is obsessed with cleaning every place, you might want to consult your physician.
