Why Decluttering Our Environment, Creates Fresh Brain Space – Anna Colitto of Anima Coaching & Associate of Every Chat Matters Coaching explores ….
Have you ever felt anxious or overwhelmed about being in certain spaces? What if I would tell you that sometimes those feelings are brought on by the cluttered spaces that we live in, or work in.
Did you know that our external environment has a profound impact on our internal state. A cluttered environment can also create emotional baggage, making it harder to let go of the past or move forward with clarity. That is why decluttering often brings a sense of relief and emotional lightness.
By decluttering our surroundings, we’re not just tidying up our physical space we’re also creating fresh brain space in the process.
When we move through our busy day, we prioritize the thoughts that help us accomplish our lists of tasks. Whether at work or at home, we tune in on what we have to do, how we will accomplish this, and in the quickest way possible. But, when we are facing all those decisions and we add a cluttered environment to the mix, that changes everything.
Our brains are wired to process and organise information efficiently.
When surrounded by clutter, the brain has to work harder to filter out distractions, leading to cognitive overload and reduced focus. Studies have shown that excessive clutter can elevate the stress hormone. cortisol which is helping the body to prepare for a flight or fight response which can manifest in anxiety, stress, or uneasiness.
A disorganized space often creates a sense of unfinished tasks, making it harder to relax. When faced with too much visual stimuli, the brain struggles to prioritize and make decisions. This can lead to procrastination, mental fatigue, and difficulty focusing on important tasks.
The Connection Between Clutter and the Brain
Clutter isn’t just about things piling up in your home; it also creates mental noise. Research suggests that physical clutter competes for our attention, reducing our ability to focus and process information effectively. This is why walking into a clean organized room can instantly make you feel lighter, calmer, and more productive.
When your environment is chaotic, your brain follows suit. But the good news is, the opposite is also true, decluttering your physical space can bring order and clarity to your thoughts.
The Power of Small Steps
Starting with small steps is the key to easy and lasting change.
One of the biggest roadblocks to decluttering is the feeling of being overwhelmed. Where do you even begin? The secret is to start small. You don’t need to overhaul your entire home in one weekend, instead take it one small step at a time.
The 5-Minute Rule
What is the 5-minute rule? Well, it is the simplest and smallest step to a clutter free life, where you spend just five minutes a day decluttering one small area a day. Over time, you’ll see a huge transformation. That’s it!!! Sounds too good to be true???
Maybe, but it works!
The 5-minute rule removes the pressure off of the initial thought of having to completely overhaul a room in one shot. Usually when we put a plan in place to tackle decluttering a room or garage etc., we begin with, “which day of the week do I have 5 or 6 hours to do this one room/area”? As well we need between 5 days to a 2-week window before we can commit to getting this baby done. All the while dreading and stressing, maybe even getting a little anxiety as the countdown approaches.
BUT, what if we change our approach! “Hum, well hey nobody told me that we could do that!!!” Full disclosure that was my comment when I first heard of this 5-minute rule!! This information stopped me in my tracks. After the shocked look wore off, I felt like someone just told me some top-secret information! I never cleaned a room, kitchen, bathroom, office, garage in 5 MINUTES!! EVER!! Until !| discovered that the brilliant new plan was to take whichever room you want to tackle and only do 5 minutes of sorting or declutter. You commit to 1 drawer, or 1 shelf, or 1 small section of your closet, you see where I am going with this right?
Okay okay, so how do you sort/clean/organise in 5 minutes you ask?
You begin with one drawer at a time – Choose a single drawer anywhere in your house or office., remove what doesn’t serve you, and neatly organize what remains. DONE for today.
Clear the kitchen counters – A clutter-free counter makes cooking and meal prep more enjoyable and reduces visual chaos. DONE for the next day.
Straighten up the living room- Fold blankets and remove any water glasses or bowls from your coffee table. DONE for the day after that.
Tidy your nightstand – The last thing you see before bed and the first thing you see in the morning should promote peace, not stress. Keep it simple and keep the strictly necessary items, max 4 on your nightstands. DONE for the day after that.
Throw out old papers on your desk – or organize your calendar. When your desk is clean you will| want to be there creating and working. DONE for the day after that.
Create a “donate” box – Place a box in your home/office where you can gradually collect items to give away.
The key is to do this effortlessly. When you begin remember to choose whatever looks easy to complete.
Over time you will be more confident in the quick execution of the 5-minute decluttering, that you may just begin to look forward to your daily fix. Once you begin the process, you will be more conscious of your environment and it will be easier to maintain your efforts.
You are picturing it right? Don’t lie, something inside you is starting to feel hopeful about finally doing some decluttering right? YOU’RE WELCOME!
And last but not least.
The Mental and Emotional Benefits of Decluttering.
Decluttering is more than just cleaning-it’s an act of self-care. That is correct SELF LOVE. Research has shown that an organized environment can lead to: Reduced stress. A tidy space helps lower anxiety levels, as well as increased productivity. Fewer distractions mean better focus which equals, better decision-making. With less visual clutter, your brain has more energy for important choices. Every small win boosts motivation to continue towards clutter free clarity, and creates a tangible sense of accomplishment.
Remember, Your Environment Reflects Your Mindset
Your outer space is a reflection of your inner world. By taking small steps to clear out what no longer serves you, you create space for new opportunities, fresh ideas, and a sense of calmness, peace and might I say JOY.
Remember, your Environment Reflects Your Mindset
So, are you ready to transform your mindset?
Decluttering is one step on the path to a clearer, more intentional life. If you’re looking to create lasting change, let’s connect and explore how I can assist you on your journey of clarity.
What is the first space you’ll declutter today? Reach out and email me at animacoaching.life or book a free call with me so we can chat about your goals. I would love to help get you started. It’s finally time to begin to step into your new healthier, happier, calmer, decluttered life.
Blessings,
Anna
Anna Colitto
PGDip Coaching and Leadership
Consciousness Transformation and Mindset Coach
https://animacoaching.life/
