It’s officially spring cleaning season! Spring symbolizes new beginnings, making it the perfect time to reset by cleaning and decluttering your home. The perks of spring cleaning aren’t limited to a sparkling kitchen, fresh bathroom, or organized closet – it can also improve your mental well-being. 

While research has shown that a clean space is beneficial to your mental health, decluttering doesn’t have to be limited to your physical space. Here are ways to declutter your mental space too!    

Start a journal 

Journaling is a great relief activity if you’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed with negative or intrusive thoughts. By writing your thoughts on paper, you’re creating an outlet for those overwhelming thoughts and clearing up space in your mind. In fact, journaling is a common therapy for stress management and anxiety.    

Spend time outdoors 

Take advantage of the beautiful spring weather to relax in nature! Research in the National Library of Medicine shows that spending time outdoors can be mentally restorative. Hillsborough County has several outdoor recreation activities for residents. You can take a calming walk through one of Hillsborough County’s nature preserve trails or spend time on the water by kayaking or canoeing the county’s rivers, creeks, and waterways.  

Practice mindfulness with meditation 

Meditation is a simple but powerful tool for decluttering your mental space. Next time you’re feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed, take a few minutes to practice a simple meditation exercise. Need a guided meditation? Visit the Hillsborough County Mindful Monday YouTube playlist for a selection of guided meditations and relaxation exercises.