Blank space can be beautiful, and popular books promise strategies to shed extra stuff. But is minimalism livable? Some research suggests that decluttering can have as much of an effect on your well-being as it does on your physical space. (5)
The older we get, the more unneeded items we may have. Although we tend to gain fewer possessions after age 50, many older people are also less likely to sell things or give them away. In one study of people over 70, about one-third said they had not thrown out any possessions in the past year.(3)
Sometimes, older adults don't get rid of clutter because it requires a lot of physical effort. In such cases, family members can help. It's better to handle clutter before ill health or death makes it urgent. (3)
Below, relationship expert, Dr. Karyn Gordon talks about why decluttering your home can be beneficial for your mind and your lifestyle.
Here are 8 benefits to decluttering your home:
- improves anxiety by bringing back your control
- increases ability to focus without distractions
- creativity is increases with organized space
- clears allergens and risk of asthma
- reduces safety hazards for children, pets
- most people sleep better in tidy space
- less stress in a clean environment
- easier to clean in the long run
Of course, you can take anything to an extreme level, so if decluttering becomes an obsession or you become super strict about having everything in a specific place, you can go overboard. It’s important to find what works for you in this realm and be flexible enough to relinquish the reins of control when appropriate. But it’s worth the effort to find your personal sweet spot, because in the right amount, decluttering can be good for your overall well-being in many ways. (4)
Sources:
- https://www.budgetdumpster.com/resources/how-to-declutter-your-home.php
- https://www.greenandhealthyhomes.org/home-and-health/elements-green-healthy-home/
- https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/mental-health-benefits-of-decluttering
- https://www.everydayhealth.com/healthy-living/why-decluttering-is-important-for-self-care-and-when-it-isnt/
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/how-decluttering-your-space-could-make-you-healthier-and-happier/art-20390064