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A 2017 study on young adults found that clutter was linked to procrastination, feeling overwhelmed and lower quality of life. Our outer environments can act as a container for our emotional and psychic states, Dr. Roeske explains. “When there is order and structure to our outer environment, it can help us feel more able to manage some of the internal feeling states and worlds,” she adds.

Human beings prefer similar routines that offer us stability, even amid otherwise chaotic circumstances, Dr. Roeske notes. Keeping your household items in order can provide that familiarity. However, she adds that “order” doesn’t necessarily mean everything is lined up perfectly and color coordinated, and that another person’s sense of order may differ from yours.

The physical act of cleaning can also release endorphins, which Dr. Roeske states,“is hugely beneficial as a pain reliever, stress reliever and overall enhancement of our well-being.”

Having too many items in our field of vision distracts the brain’s processing capacity, according to a 2011 Princeton Neuroscience Institute study[6]. Clearing away clutter allows the brain to focus on items and tasks one at a time.

The act of cleaning also requires us to slow down, which can offer a calming effect during overwhelming situations and help us explore and manage our emotions. “Deep cleaning can be a great constructive physical outlet for frustration,” says Dr. Loo.