7 Benefits of Spring Cleaning

Spring cleaning isn't just about making your home sparkle; it's also about boosting your mood and overall wellbeing. Getting rid of clutter can do wonders for your mental and emotional health. 

Raise your hand if you’ve read Marie Kondo’s “Spark Joy” book. Because if it doesn’t spark joy, it doesn't deserve a spot in your house (kind of like our philosophy on joy and purpose, more on that here!). 

We took her lead and recently cleaned up our office, gathering up gently worn shoes to donate through Soles4Souls and recycling old prototypes through Terracycle. Not only are we practicing what we preach in terms of sustainability and giving back (more on that here and here), but it's brought such new energy and life into our office! 

So without further ado, here are the 7 benefits that spring cleaning can bring to your life: 

1 - Reduces Stress: Clutter and mess can create a sense of chaos, leading to increased stress levels. By decluttering and tidying up our living spaces, we create a more peaceful environment that promotes relaxation and reduces feelings of anxiety.

2 - Boosts Mood: There's something satisfying about seeing a clean, organized home. Did you know that completing tasks and achieving goals (such as cleaning a room or decluttering a closet) releases dopamine in the brain, the neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward? This can lift our mood and leave us feeling accomplished and happier.

3 - Promotes Mindfulness: Engaging in spring cleaning can be a form of mindfulness practice. By focusing our attention on the present moment, whether it's scrubbing a countertop or folding laundry, allows us to cultivate a sense of mindfulness and presence. This can help alleviate stress and promote a sense of calm and well-being.

4 - Enhances Productivity: A clean and organized environment can boost productivity and creativity. When our surroundings are clutter-free, we can better focus on the tasks at hand and approach them with a clear mind. This can lead to increased efficiency and a greater sense of accomplishment, further contributing to our overall well-being.

5 - Creates Space for Joyful Living: Clutter often prevents us from fully enjoying our living spaces. By clearing out unnecessary items and organizing our belongings, we create space for the things that truly bring us joy. Surrounding ourselves with objects and decor that evoke positive emotions can enhance our sense of happiness and well-being daily.

6 - Improves Sleep Quality: A clean and tidy bedroom can significantly improve the quality of our sleep. Removing clutter and creating a calm, relaxing environment can help promote better sleep hygiene, leading to more restful nights and increased energy levels during the day.

7 - Creating a Sense of Pride: Taking care of our homes and belongings instills a sense of pride and ownership. When we invest time and effort into maintaining a clean and organized space, we feel a sense of accomplishment and pride in our surroundings. This can positively impact our self-esteem and overall sense of well-being.

So there you have it. If you’re looking for a sign to tidy up your space, now is the time. Start small - like that junk drawer you’ve been meaning to get to. Work your way up to a closet and then an entire room. Trust us, it will be worth it.

Have old shoes to donate? Send us an email at info@joyasolshoes.com. We’d be happy to donate and/or recycle them through our partners at Soles4Souls and Terracycle. To learn more about our sustainability programs, visit here.