Less Mess, Less Stress

Here’s how to free up mental and physical space and start enjoying the benefits of a calmer, simpler and more joy-focused life

Clutter. It comes in many forms and often seems to have a negative impact on contentment. Souvenirs, old magazines and receipts — it’s easy for stuff to pile up. When we let things take up too much space, it can take a toll on our overall health and wellness. Clutter can compete for our attention while we’re trying to focus on other things.

Why does that matter? Because our minds are taxed when they have to focus on multiple things, and our performance of each task can become less efficient.

While some clutter is unavoidable, an overabundance of things can negatively impact our mental well-being and how we feel about our home. A clutter-free home doesn’t just mean it’s easier to find the TV remote. The process of decluttering living spaces is an excellent exercise for our brains. It can give us a sense of satisfaction, increase energy, lower anxiety and even reduce relationship and family tension.

Are there aspects of your life that feel cluttered? Try these simple tips to help you purge items that may be weighing you down.

Team up

When it seems impossible to conquer clutter on your own, enlist a partner, family member or friend to help. They can keep you motivated and offer another perspective on sentimental items.

It’s important to have conversations about your personal possessions with family and friends. During those discussions, don’t be afraid to make it clear that you’re the final decision-maker regarding what stays and what goes. But remember: When downsizing, it’s typically into a living space that’s about half the size of your current home. So, if your loved ones encourage you to part with certain things, try to trust them.

Make three simple piles

Label them Keep, Toss and Donate. This prevents the temptation to make mounds of “maybe” items.

Ask questions

As you go through your items, ask yourself: Why do I have this? Does it still provide a purpose for me? Could someone else benefit from it more?

Start small

It can be overwhelming to start the decluttering process. The key is to begin with something manageable. For example, try conquering your canned goods. In a matter of minutes, you can toss out expired items, put a few items in a bag to donate to the local food shelf, and take stock of what remains. Day by day, work your way through your home — one drawer, cabinet or closet at a time.

Block off time

Schedule decluttering sessions on your calendar to stay committed to the task. Break them up over several smaller sessions to make the process less overwhelming.

Save your faves

For things such as birthday cards, mementos and gifts from family, pick your favorites, and toss or donate the rest. If you feel guilty, remember: It’s the relationships and memories that matter — not the objects that represent them.

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This publication is for informational purposes only and does not replace the care or advice of a doctor. Always talk with a doctor before beginning any exercise program, therapy or medication. Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. This information is not a complete description of benefits. Contact the plan for more information. Limitations, copayments and restrictions may apply. Benefits, premium and/or copayments/coinsurance may change on January 1 of each year. UnitedHealthcare does not provide any assurances nor accept any responsibility or liability regarding the quality, nutritional value, or safety of the included recipes.