Do you ever get stressed or overwhelmed? Do you sometimes feel like you have so much to do, but you’re just not sure where to begin? This might just be the perfect moment to tidy up a bit, especially if things are –– well –– messy. It’s been said: “Messy home, messy head.”

The problem is, the worse things get, in terms of messiness and disorganization, the harder it becomes to undo. It can feel like you’re trying to dig yourself out of a hole. The good news is, all you have to do to make it better is start. And you can start anywhere

The positive psychology of housecleaning

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America’s article, Physical Activity Reduces Stress, the physical activity of cleaning coupled with the end result of a cleaner home helps reduce stress, feelings of anxiety , and depressive symptoms. In fact, many experts agree that order and cleanliness in the home have a positive effect on mood and can lead to a number of mental health benefits –– there are quite a few books that have been written on the subject. Conversely, people who live or work in environments that are cluttered, disorganized or lacking in cleanliness, may run into challenges in terms of morale and with staying motivated.  Mental health issues can manifest physically in the form of cortisol; also known as the stress hormone.

So what can you do to get motivated and stay motivated? The answer is simple. Start cleaning and tidying up and keep it up on a daily basis.

A few general health benefits of cleaning:

• Housecleaning is a form of exercise
• Housecleaning is Zen therapy
• Housecleaning boosts your self esteem
• A clean home smells clean and makes for cleaner, fresher air
  • Clean air can mean fewer headaches (as bad odors can cause headaches)
  • Clean air is healthier (bad smells can cause health issues, some of which are serious –– do not ignore foul odors in the home
• Decluttering leads to fewer distractions, which leads to better thinking

A little housecleaning goes a long way toward a happier and healthier you

You’ve probably heard it before, but a great place to start is simply with making your bed every day when you wake up. If you don’t normally make your bed, give it a try. Many find that it creates a sense of accomplishment, and from there, other tasks become easier. Then, when you return to your bed in the evening, it feels cleaner and more inviting; preparing you for a good night of rest, and you’ll be well ahead of the game going forward.

Clear the clutter to start cleaning

Once your bed is made, you won’t want to stop there. Anything lying on the floor or on a chair has a true place, and when you help your clothes find their way to a drawer, a hanger or a hamper, you’ll see that your room looks great in very little time. Tables, dressers or desks can be quickly organized, and unnecessary items can go in the trash or recycling bin.

When you head to the bathroom for your morning routine, simply add in a bit of cleaning and tidying before you go. When you’re through with the shower and sink, give them a quick spritz with your surface cleaner and wipe them down with a non-scratch sponge or cloth. If your wastebasket is full, grab it and empty it on your way out the door.

Obviously, a thorough, deep clean of the whole house is not possible every day, nor is it necessary. Yet with a daily quick pickup and cleaning approach, when your weekly cleaning day comes around, it’s going to feel a lot less daunting, and you’ll be that much happier because it won’t mean too much work. Since your floors and surfaces will be clutter-free, cleaning them will be a snap.

When are cleaning and tidying a good idea?

Really, when are they not a good idea? Almost any old time is a good time to clean house or to make things neat and tidy. Once you get into a daily habit, chances are, you’ll get addicted to how good it feels and to how much it can improve your mind, body and soul as well as your world. In case you need some extra inspiration, here are some ideas to help you get going.

• Clean your way out of your funk, frustration, anger, or sadness
• Do a load of laundry to help you think and plan
• Vacuum, sweep and mop your way to cleaner air and better breathing
• When you’re just passing through -- pick something up

Perhaps best of all, clean when you’re happy. “Whistle while you work.” Like a desert flower getting a drink of rain, there is profound beauty in housekeeping. You can actually see the glory of cleanliness and order unfolding before your eyes as you work. Your joy progressively blossoms with every newly-cleaned area. Enjoy it, and let your neat-freak flag fly!