The Joy of Less: How Decluttering Your Space Can Clear Your Mind

Let’s face it: clutter has a sneaky way of taking over. One day, you’re putting an empty yoghurt pot “just in case” you need it, and the next, your cupboards resemble a game of Tetris. But here’s the thing: all that stuff you’re hanging onto isn’t just crowding your shelves; it’s crowding your brain, too.

Decluttering isn’t just about tidying up; it’s about making space for what matters—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Ready to create room for the new, spark some energy in your life, and maybe even boost your mental health?

Ever notice how walking into a tidy room feels like taking a deep breath? That’s because physical clutter drains energy, while open space makes it easier to focus, relax, and think clearly. When you remove what you don’t need, you’re not just clearing surfaces; you’re creating room for possibility.

Think of decluttering as hitting the refresh button on your life. By letting go of that broken toaster, the clothes that don’t fit, or the random cables you can’t identify, you’re freeing up mental space to dream about what’s next. Want to start a new hobby? Need space for that indoor herb garden? It all starts with making room.

My solution for when things feel stuck is to find seven things to get out of my house in the next hour - if that doesn't work then seven bags of stuff over the next week is usually enough to blast through the energy block and get me going again (I have known to do this in one day when I have reached the frustrated with EVERYTHING stage!)

Here’s the truth: you can’t embrace new opportunities if your life is weighed down by the past. Whether it’s sentimental knick-knacks or those jeans from 1999 that you swear will fit again someday, holding on to “just in case” items keeps you stuck.

When you let go of the old, you’re telling the universe (and yourself) that you’re ready for new adventures. It’s not about being ruthless; it’s about being intentional. Keep the things that bring you joy and purpose, and send the rest on its way—whether that’s to a charity shop, a neighbour, or the bin.

There is something significant about appreciating those things from the past and letting them go - ready to welcome in the new things from the future. Moving into the future lighter and ready to receive better things to come.

Decluttering isn’t just good for your home; it’s a gift to your mental health. Research shows that messy spaces can increase stress and anxiety, while clean, organised spaces have the opposite effect.

Conversely - a more than usually cluttered environment can indicate that you are on the slide into black dog days and a quick clean up, walk in the sunshine and conversation with a friend can all help to stave that off.

Think of each item you part with as lifting a tiny weight off your shoulders. That pile of unopened post? Gone. The mystery drawer filled with things you haven’t seen since 2010? Empty. Every item you clear is a step toward calm, clarity, and mental freedom.

Decluttering doesn’t have to be a grim, joyless task. Put on your favourite playlist, grab a cup of tea, and make it fun. Start small—a single drawer or one corner of a room—and let the momentum build. Celebrate each bag you donate, each shelf you organise, and each square foot you reclaim.

Or my solution - Body Doubling! Pair up with a friend in real life (or online on zoom) and hang out together for an hour getting as much done as you can then sitting down and having a good natter.

And remember, it’s not about perfection. You don’t need a Pinterest-perfect home to feel the benefits of less (Crofting is not really for those of a minimalist mindset but you do need to be able to lay your hand on your tools when you need them). It’s about creating a space that feels like yours—light, inviting, and full of possibilities.

By clearing away the old, you’re making room for fresh energy, new opportunities, and a more peaceful mind.

If you’re ready to dive in but don’t want to do it alone, jump in the comments and find an online decluttering buddy to take action with. Together, we can tackle the chaos and create the space we deserve! Clear Your Mind.