When we think of self-care, I’m sure a lot of us aren’t thinking about cleaning. But hear me out. What if I told you that cleaning could be just as crucial to your mental health? What if you’re one solid cleaning day away from feeling uplifted and refreshed with the bonus of having a clean space?
I never loved cleaning, and I still don’t. But I have to admit that keeping a clean space gives a sense of accomplishment and is a good way to clear my head. And I’m sure that I’m not alone in thinking so.
In fact, there seems to be a connection between cleaning as self care because of mental health.
Let’s break down why we should be cleaning more. And how to make the task more enjoyable.
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The Cleaning for Self-Care and Mental Health Connection
The world is a chaotic place. We can’t control what goes on outside our four walls. But we can control what goes on within them. Cleaning can give us a sense of control. Over all, cleaning can have a positive impact on our mood. Not to mention the boost we get from accomplishing a task.
When it comes to a messy house, it can boost your cortisol levels which is the stress hormone. Raised levels of cortisol can cause all kinds of negative impacts to the body, including our appearance.
Cleaning can make you feel psychologically lighter and over all better. It’s worth working into your self-care routine even if you’re pressed for time. A little bit can go a long way. And you never have to worry about scrambling to clean up if you do a few of these things every day.
But if you find that you just can’t get started, then here’s a few tips on what to do.
Set A Timer
Start by setting a timer for at least ten minutes. Use that time to pick up the room you’re in. It’s not a lot of time, and it’s always surprising the amount I’m able to pick up in just ten minutes. Plus, depending on my energy for that day, it can inspire me to do more.
Ten minutes could be all you have in you for the day. But if it inspires more, go with it.
You might start with clutter and find that you need to sweep. Or maybe it’ll inspire you to do dishes, clean surfaces, or even tackle a bigger task that you’ve put off.
Put On A Podcast
For bigger tasks, I find them much more enjoyable if I have a podcast going in the background. I hate cleaning my bathroom, but it feels less excruciating when I’m listening to an episode of my favorite podcast.
I may be scrubbing at stubborn grime, but I’m laughing along with what I’m listening to. Plus, sometimes I’ll save up podcasts for when I know I have a big task ahead of me. It’s incentive to listen to my favorites.
And if you really want to add self-care to your cleaning, listen to a positive podcast to help you along. With so many mental health podcasts out there, you’re sure to find one that resonates.
Focus on Self-Care By Cleaning One Room at a Time
You will drive yourself crazy if you try to do everything all at once. Do yourself a favor and focus on one room at a time. Make a list of all the tasks that you need to do for that room. Then start with the timer method.
If that’s all you can do in one day, that’s great! You did something and that’s worth being proud of. If you find you have more energy, put on a podcast and tackle the bigger tasks at hand. The sweeping. The mopping. The decluttering. The scrubbing.
Even if you start in a room by making a list. Sometimes you can get that extra boost by checking things off a list and seeing your progress.
The Takeaway
Cleaning doesn’t have to be a dreadful task. In fact, it may improve your over all mental health. It’s a matter of making it more enjoyable and doing what you can as you have time. But the results will speak for themselves. Physically and mentally.
If you’re still not convinced, check out Marie Kondo’s book The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up. It’s an inspirational read that may change the way you look at cleaning forever.
Sources:
Cleaning Is A Form of Self Care
The Psychological Reason Cleaning Your Home Should Be Your Biggest Form Of Self-Care