Spring Cleaning for Mental Health

The change from winter to spring brings longer days, warmer weather and the blooming of flowers and trees. Along with these changes comes a sense of hope and renewal for the future. During this time of the year, many people practice the tradition of spring cleaning in their homes. However, spring cleaning isn’t just for your home — it can also apply to your mindset.

Spring cleaning for your mental health is a way to create calm amidst change. Just as cleaning your home creates space for new energy, taking care of your mindset allows you to make room for positive thoughts and clarity. When you clear mental clutter, you can think more positively and feel better equipped to handle life’s challenges. So, how can you spring clean your mental health?

Start by decluttering your mind. One way to do this is by writing things down, such as thoughts, goals or lists, and then prioritizing what matters most to you. Taking time to evaluate your mental space is another great way to declutter. Reconnect with your values by assessing whether your daily actions and habits are moving you toward or away from what’s important to you. This exercise will help you understand what you need to change or continue doing to live in alignment with your values. Journaling can also be an effective tool for evaluating your mental space. Here are some prompts to help you declutter and let go:

• • • What’s been weighing on my mind is…
    • The thing that frustrates me the most is…
    • Another way that I can see this situation is…
    • What I’d really love to let go of is…
    • What is no longer supporting me is…
    • If I could change one thing, it would be…
    • How does holding on to the past affect my present and future?
    • What grudges am I holding on to? How are they serving me?
    • How can I be more open to change?

After evaluating your mental space, it’s important to address your physical space as well. Your surroundings can significantly affect how you feel mentally, causing stress and anxiety when cluttered or messy. Begin in the areas that cause you the most stress, such as the kitchen or bedroom. If your home is already organized, you can still renew your physical space through mindful cleaning. Practice mindful cleaning by giving your full attention to each task and engaging your senses. This practice can provide stress relief and bring you into the present moment, helping you let go of worries and distractions.

Lastly, spring cleaning for your mental health includes renewing your spirit. This can be achieved through meditation, gratitude, prayer or deep breathing. These strategies will help you relax and stay present. Also, practicing mindfulness, self-compassion and self-care can help shift negative thoughts. As the weather warms, try spending time outside in nature to ground yourself and enjoy the spring season.

With these tips in mind, consider the seasonal change as an opportunity to improve your well-being. Embrace the fresh energy of spring and start cleansing your mental space!

About the author

Megan DiPietro

Ms. Megan DiPietro is a part-time team member on the Slainte Fitness team at USLI. She graduated from West Chester University with a degree in Psychology. At WCU, Ms. DiPietro was involved in a health and wellness club called CHAARG which developed her passion for fitness. She got into weight lifting in 2020 which has grown her love for wellness even more.