The Scientific Link Between Home Organization and Mental Clarity

With the sometimes chaotic reality of our modern lives, finding mental clarity can seem like an elusive goal. But emerging research suggests that one powerful tool for achieving this clarity lies within the spaces we inhabit. The connection between home organisation and mental well-being is more than just tidying up; it's about creating an environment that nurtures cognitive peace.

The Psychological Impact of Clutter:

Many studies, including a groundbreaking one by researchers at Princeton University, have delved deep into the psychological effects of clutter. The study found that an excess of visual stimuli (such as that caused by disorganisation), competes for our attention and can lead to increased stress levels (Kunzmann, U., et al., 2018). Also known in the organising space as 'visual clutter', have too much around to look at and think about can really make us feel stressed. I recently participated in an event with a clinical psychologist from International Medical Centre (IMC) in Qatar named Dr. Suzanne, and she mentioned the same. She said it can be helpful to think about our home environments in terms of co-regulation; that is that we are susceptible to mood changes based on the state of our homes. 

Decluttering and Stress Reduction:

A cluttered home can increase our stress, and stress, in turn, clouds mental clarity. Researchers at the UCLA Center on Everyday Lives and Families discovered a direct link between high cortisol levels (a hormone associated with stress) in female homeowners and the density of household objects. They found that decluttering had a measurable impact on stress reduction (Saxbe, D., et al., 2015). 

Orderly Environments, Improved Focus:

Another study published in the Journal of Neuroscience revealed that an organised environment can positively influence cognitive abilities. Participants in a neat and organised room showed better focus and improved productivity compared to those in a disorganised setting. This connection between order and cognitive performance suggests that a clutter-free space fosters mental clarity (Vohs, K. D., et al., 2013).

The KonMari Method and Mental Well-being:

The KonMari method, popularized by Marie Kondo, emphasizes the transformative power of decluttering. While it has gained cultural traction as a method for organizing physical spaces, adherents often report not just a cleaner home but also a clearer state of mind. The intentional act of deciding what to keep and what to discard can be a cathartic process, contributing to a sense of control and mental well-being (Kondo, M., 2014).

Practical Steps for Mental Clarity Through Organization:

1. Start Small: Tackle one area at a time to avoid overwhelming yourself.

2. Donate or Discard: Regularly assess and donate items you no longer need, reducing unnecessary clutter.

3. Organize Mindfully: Create a system for organizing that makes sense to you, ensuring easy maintenance.

4. Personalize Your Space: Surround yourself with items that bring you joy and contribute to a positive atmosphere.

While aesthics are important, the science demonstrates that a well-organised home isn't just visually appealing; it can have an impact on mental clarity. Our living spaces do influence our psychological well-being, and when we embark on a journey of decluttering, the benefits extend beyond the physical space, fostering a sense of peace and clarity of mind. These are the TIDY VIBES!

If you need help decluttering and organising your space in Doha, Qatar I would be happy to help. Check out the contact page and FAQs for more!

References:

• Kunzmann, U., et al. (2018). Life events and changes in daily life: A longitudinal study on everyday stressors. Aging & Mental Health, 22(5), 643–648.

• Saxbe, D., et al. (2015). No place like home: Home tours correlate with daily patterns of mood and cortisol. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 41(11), 1552–1563.

• Vohs, K. D., et al. (2013). Physical order produces healthy choices, generosity, and conventionality, whereas disorder produces creativity. Psychological Science, 24(9), 1860–1867.

• Kondo, M. (2014). The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing. Ten Speed Press.