The Mental And Physical Health Benefits Of Pre-Diwali Decluttering: A Deep Clean For Mind And Body

The auspicious festival of Diwali brings the practice of decluttering and deep cleaning as a must-have tradition. But this pre-Diwali cleaning goes beyond traditional cleaning; it's a practice that offers a boost to your mental and physical health when done right. With deep roots in Indian culture, this custom signifies renewal and preparing one's space to welcome abundance and positivity. While Diwali is a festival that signifies the victory of good over evil, find out how you can achieve victory from clutter in the healthiest possible way. In addition, this Diwali reap the physical and mental health benefits associated with Diwali decluttering at the same time. Just remember to be careful and not overdo or overstrain yourself, and follow these tips.

The Cultural And Spiritual Significance Of Diwali Cleaning

The ritual of cleaning homes and surroundings is an integral part of Diwali, with historical ties to the idea of regeneration and rejuvenation, symbolising the removal of the old to make way for the new. Popular belief states that Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and purity, visits only clean and 'sattvic' homes. The ritual of cleaning before Diwali is seen as a way to welcome her blessings, and this is the ritual of renewal.

Beyond physical tidiness, this practice is considered "Bhoot Shuddhi" according to the anciet science of Vaastu, a cleansing of both space and energy. According to popular beliefs, stagnant clutter is thought to hold negativity, while a clean home attracts positive vibrations and energy. In fact, modern science and recent studies have also confirmed the mental health benefits of decluttering.

Mental Health Benefits Of Decluttering

Decluttering offers numerous psychological advantages, including improved emotional states and enhanced cognitive clarity. Leading to the release of chemical compounds that give rise to feelings of happiness, reduced anxiety, and increased self-confidence.

Reduced Stress And Anxiety

A cluttered environment often leads to mental clutter, rising stress levels due to constant visual chaos. Studies show that people living in cluttered homes tend to have higher levels of the stress hormone 'cortisol'. Conversely, a clean and organised home can create a sense of calm and order, which helps reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.

Improved Focus And Productivity

Clutter can make it difficult to concentrate and can bombard the mind with excessive stimuli, leading to cognitive overload and reduced working memory. A tidy space, however, minimises distractions, allowing for improved focus and more effective task completion. An organised home helps individuals stay on track and manage tasks efficiently.

Enhanced Mood And Emotional Well-being

An organised living space can positively influence mood, fostering a sense of calm and happiness.The act of decluttering can boost mood by providing a sense of accomplishment and reducing stress. Conversely, excessive clutter can lead to feelings of shame, hopelessness, and guilt and can even worsen depression. Clearing emotional clutter by letting go of unnecessary items can lead to a sense of emotional lightness and closure.

Physical Health Benefits Of Decluttering

Beyond mental improvements, decluttering also offers tangible physical health benefits by creating a safer and healthier living environment.

Enhanced Safety And Reduced Health Risks

A cluttered environment can pose safety hazards, such as tripping over objects, which may lead to accidents and injuries. Cluttered areas also accumulate dust and allergens, potentially causing respiratory problems, allergies, and other health issues. A clean, clutter-free space actively promotes better health.

Physical Activity And Energy Boost

The process of decluttering and cleaning can be a physical activity in itself, contributing to overall physical health. This physical exertion can relax the mind, improve sleep patterns, and even burn calories. Regular physical activity, including cleaning, is known to have irrefutable benefits in preventing various chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity.

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Improved Eating Habits

Working in a neat environment can positively influence dietary choices. Clutter can be stressful for the brain, potentially leading to coping mechanisms like choosing comfort foods.

Practical Tips For Pre-Diwali Decluttering

Approaching pre-Diwali decluttering with a plan can make the process more manageable and rewarding.

Setting Intentions And Starting Small

Before beginning, it's beneficial to set an intention, such as inviting peace, purity, and prosperity into your home. Start with small, manageable tasks, focusing on one area, cupboard, or wardrobe at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Organising And Discarding

Decluttering involves removing items that are no longer used or needed. A useful rule is to consider discarding items not used in the past year. Items in good condition can be donated or given away, while those not in good condition should be disposed of responsibly. After decluttering, organise the remaining items neatly using storage solutions.

Engaging The Family And Mindful Cleaning

Involving family members in the decluttering process can foster togetherness and shared responsibility, making preparations more enjoyable. Mindful cleaning can transform the yearly event into a meaningful and reflective experience.

Incorporating Spiritual Elements

Beyond physical cleaning, pre-Diwali decluttering often includes spiritual rituals like energetic cleansing using sound and smoke, such as ringing bells or burning dhoop. Lighting diyas and adorning the entrance with rangoli also contribute to creating a sacred and welcoming atmosphere.

Pre-Diwali decluttering is a holistic practice that offers profound benefits for both mental and physical well-being. By systematically cleaning and organising, individuals can create a sense of order and control, reduce stress, and improve focus. This tradition, intertwined with spiritual and cultural significance, allows for a deep cleansing of both external and internal spaces, leading to a more purposeful and fulfilling life.

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.

References:

Ellenbogen, M.A., Schwartzman, A.E., Stewart, J., & Walker, C. (2002). Stress and selective attention: the interplay of mood, cortisol levels, and emotional information processing. Psychophysiology, 39 6, 723-32 .

Patterns of physical activity among the students of an Indian university and their perceptions about the curricular content concerned with health | medRxiv

Vohs, K., Redden, J., & Rahinel, R. (2013). Physical order produces healthy choices, generosity, and conventionality, whereas disorder produces creativity. Psychological Science.