Traditionally, people associate spring cleaning with freshening up the house and getting rid of clutter. While this is certainly a part of it, it can also be beneficial for your mental health. In fact, the act of cleaning can clear out mental and emotional debris that may be contributing to anxiety and other mood disorders.

1. Decluttering and Cleansing Reduces Anxiety

Seattle Green Maids a messy space can actually increase stress by making it difficult to concentrate and increases feelings of overwhelm. In addition, a mess can make it hard to find things and can hinder your productivity. Studies have also shown that being surrounded by clutter can increase your cortisol levels throughout the day and can make it harder to relax at the end of the day.

2. Cleaning for Mental Clarity and Peace

In a messy environment, there are often “open loops” of unfinished tasks such as dishes that need to be washed or clothes that need to be put away. Closing these loops can relieve anxiety and stress by providing a sense of closure and accomplishment. Additionally, the physical act of cleaning and the sense of achievement it gives you can trigger your body to release dopamine, which is known as a natural mood booster.

However, if you have a tendency to obsess over cleaning and it feels like a compulsion rather than a positive coping mechanism, it is important to seek help from a mental health provider. A therapist can provide guidance on determining healthy boundaries for your cleaning habits and develop other coping skills to address symptoms of anxiety or depression.