Lately, I’ve been doing something that feels both simple and surprisingly powerful. I started organizing and purging my surroundings.
It began with one desk drawer. Then I moved on to my spice cabinet, tossing expired spices, combining duplicates, and making the space easier to use. Before I knew it, I was purging some closet areas and donating gently used items. With each small step, I have been feeling lighter. I’ve still got many more closets, drawers, and cabinets to get through, but just getting started is worth celebrating!
There’s something freeing about clearing physical clutter. And it turns out, there’s science behind why it feels so good.
From a neuroscience perspective, clutter increases cognitive load. Our brains are constantly taking in information, and when our environment is crowded or chaotic, the brain has to work harder just to process what it sees. That can lead to stress, fatigue, and a sense of overwhelm.
When we simplify our surroundings, we give our brain a signal of safety and calm. Focus improves. Decision fatigue decreases. Peace becomes easier to access.
This doesn’t mean we need a perfectly organized home. It simply means small changes can have a big impact.
Here are a few gentle ways to begin:
- Start small. Choose one drawer, shelf, or cabinet. Small wins build momentum.
- Release guilt. If you haven’t used something in a long time, it’s okay to let it go. Donating is a gift, not a failure.
- Create space on purpose. Clear spaces invite clarity, not perfection.
“For God is not a God of confusion but of peace.” 1 Corinthians 14:33
As we move into a new season, creating surroundings that feel peaceful can help our minds and hearts feel more grounded.
Your turn:
What’s one small space you could clear this week? Reply and tell me. I’d love to cheer you on.
