I have been going through my stuff – organizing & throwing things away – I can tell the difference in how I feel w/ things organized and such. I do not remember what brought about this process but I’m glad I’ve done it. I have a feeling it started because I have been eating better and had the energy – as well as slowly experiencing “postmenopausal zest”. Whatever it is I am enjoying it and moving forward full steam ahead.

Decluttering has several benefits – a few that stand out for me are:

• Improves sleep: A tidy and organized bedroom can lead to a more restful and sound sleep, as clutter can disrupt relaxation.

• Reduces allergens: A less cluttered home is easier to clean thoroughly, which helps prevent the buildup of dust, mold, and mildew that can trigger allergies.

• Encourages physical activity: The act of decluttering itself can be a form of physical activity, and a less chaotic home environment may give you more energy for exercise and other activities.

• Provides emotional closure: Letting go of old items that carry emotional weight can provide closure and help you move past them

• Boosts mood: Getting rid of unnecessary items can create a sense of accomplishment and even boost self-confidence, especially when donating to others.

• Reduces stress and anxiety: Clutter can increase cortisol levels and create a feeling of chaos, while a decluttered space promotes a sense of control and calm.

• Sharpen your focus: Clutter is very messy and chaotic, so it is no wonder that we can have a tough time focusing. When your space is de-cluttered, it is much easier to obtain a sharper focus because what you see is in a specific place. The sense of organization helps your mind to be on track to complete tasks.

• Energize you into productivity mode: When you are decluttering you are problem solving, and therefore getting things done. You gain energy from the visual accomplishments of de-cluttering. Your gained energy can also help tackle other items on your to-do list!

• Relieve anxiety: When things are not organized or clean, it can often bring vast amounts of anxiety. You may feel constantly stressed, worried, or afraid of more clutter accumulating. To allow our minds to find some peace, decluttering can lift that weight and help us to think clearer and feel calmer.

• Lower risk of asthma and allergies: You may think your house is messy but not dirty. But it's hard to clean around piles of belongings. Decluttering can prevent pests and reduce dust, mold, and mildew, which may trigger asthma and allergies.

This is just a few on a list of many – they are the ones that stand out to me and what I have been looking to accomplish.

In Conclusion

I have been thinking a lot about Montessori lately. The process of teaching was to make sure everything was organized and set in a visually pleasing manner.  One could say that I was conditioned to be that way, from my one year at Montessori but I believe I thrived in that environment because that was my natural way of being.

Plus, another important thing for me was to have less stuff so it will be easier to dust – that is a significant goal of mine.