Unravelling the Complex Connection between Mindfulness and Decluttering

The connection between decluttering and mindfulness is complex, profound and sometimes hard to comprehend. However, having a reflective attitude while de-cluttering our lives can bring about remarkable benefits – from mental clarity, improved sense of wellbeing, to greater focus and personal growth.

The principle of decluttering — reducing or removing physical possessions — is as old as time. The ancient Greeks spoke of the overload of clutter, and advocated for citizens to live simpler. Similarly, the original Buddhist monks adhered to the essence of minimalism, by valuing experiences over objects.

The battle between clutter and order rages on in our mental space too. Ordinary life with its obligations, decisions and shallow engagements tend to take up place in our minds, without us realizing it. Too often, unfiltered content accumulates in our minds, leading to confusion and chaos - and perhaps depression and despondency.

It is at this point where being mindful comes to the rescue. Mindfulness enables us to approach clutter more effectively, by providing crucial cognitive defence mechanisms. Through mindfulness, we can discern which possessions are essential to keep and which are not. With greater clarity, we can recognise those choices and thoughts that stimulate our mental health and happiness, and then take the required actions needed to get rid of the rest.

Naturally, when we reduce the mental and physical clutter, our environments become more conducive to healing and growth. We become aware of the complexity of our lives, and start to take ownership of our destiny. Over time (an often overlooked and underestimated enabler of reflection) can help us make sense and order out of the clutter and chaos around us.

A meaningful way to apply this newfound mindfulness to life's challenges is to set yourself personal goals, both professionally and personally. Determine what brings you joy and purpose, and develop an emotional shield against distractions (and potential triggers) to these goals.

Setting aside regular time to reflect, contemplate, or meditate on our goal(s) can provide opportunities for insights and enlightenment. An over-arching awareness — based on decluttering the physical and mental aspects of our lives and presence — facilitates mindfulness.

Mindfulness can also be accessed via nature, another natural purifier of life's complexities. Our attitude to nature allows us to create, rather than consume — in terms of conversations, experiences, and understanding. We become more accepting of the challenges we face, and regain mental agility.

It is clear that mindfulness and decluttering go hand-in-hand. When we take time to connect these elements, we open up a pathway to transforming our lives. Through this process, our environments will become clear of the detritus of everyday life, and we can collectively participate in creating a new environment, where positive reflection and growth are encouraged. Each de-cluttering task becomes an irresistible invitation to delve deeper into ourselves and our journey in life, to become aware of what really matters, and to celebrate our authentic selves.