AS the old saying goes, a room reflects your life as it represents your identity and the intimate self. 

Some say the things inside your room also speak about your personality. But to let go of some or most of your stuff inside your room may be one of the most complex cleaning parts, but research shows you need it for your mental health.

Just like what Nerissa Ponon did at the height of the pandemic. 

Since the majority had no choice but to be confined inside the four corners of their rooms to avoid getting infected, Ponon revealed that she became “disorganized and lost will” to clean up her space as COVID-19 took a toll on her.

“‘Yung time na pandemic, particularly April, talagang pakiramdam ko wala akong gana sa lahat, naging makalat ako sa room and disorganized kasi pakiramdam ko lagi akong pagod,” Ponon told republicasia.

But Ponon noted that she was being called out by her mother and said she had to clean up her disorderly room to “lighten up” her aura, which at the time, was being dragged on due to the “loneliness” she had felt during the quarantine.

And she did. 

Ponon added that ”mothers truly know best” when she was advised to clean her room because “it indeed minimized” the times she was being “attacked by sudden breakdowns due to the feeling of isolation.”

But research has proven decluttering is an effective tool for that.

A recent study by the University of Connecticut revealed that removing or controlling clutter can significantly lessen the tension brought on by messiness. It can also leave people feeling better, less apprehensive, and more self-assured.

What are the benefits of decluttering?

The research revealed that the opportunity to accomplish a physical activity while organizing room stuff can boost creativity is one of the sound effects of decluttering.

It said that allowing the mind to wander as we reorganize the clutter might help people relax psychologically while their bodies engage in physical activity.

The researchers noted that combining the two could improve the person’s mood since they are less bothered by the clutter and tend to feel successful upon seeing the improvement in their room.

Improves focus

It makes sense that we could have trouble focusing when there is clutter because it is so untidy and disorderly. Decluttering your space makes it much simpler to concentrate better because everything you see is in its proper location. The study said that your mind stays on track to complete activities when you have a sense of organization.

Sets productivity

According to the study, as people declutter, they solve problems and accomplish tasks according to plan since they have a clear mind of what activities should be done because they are not bombarded with clutters. The physical triumphs of decluttering provide vitality, while your increased energy can also be used to accomplish additional tasks on your tasks list.

Reduces anxiety

Aside from stress, seeing your room untidy and disorganized can also add to the anxiety you are experiencing. That’s why the study said that clearing a space full of clutter makes people think “clearer and feel calmer.”

How to start decluttering

The research suggests people don’t need to remove all the clutter in one sitting. Those who wish to declutter may start simply by organizing what clutters would be released today, the other tomorrow, and so on. People can also make this a chance to bond with a friend or a family member by asking them to help them declutter to accomplish the tasks swiftly. 

Because we all have diverse needs, there is no proper simplification method. When you straighten up and organize, put your mind in a state that allows it to wander freely. Change your attention from perfection to action. Employ positive thinking via deep breathing and thinking positively about yourself, what you’re about to do, and subsequently what you achieve, it said.