Shelby Ruman, MS, LPC
Spring cleaning is often categorized as getting rid of things and decluttering. Sometimes it may involve dusting shelves, clearing closets, and opening windows after a long winter. And just like our physical spaces, our mental spaces can also build up with “clutter”. It is just as important to maintain our mental spaces just like we do our physical spaces.
Out with the old and in with the new as they say. Spring is a time of new blooms, sunshine, and growth. When looking at our mental health and spring cleaning we can look to let go of negative viewpoints and uproot our unwanted behaviors. We can leave behind things that don’t serve us in a positive way anymore whether that be relationships, habits, or other things.
What can you Spring Clean?
Spring cleaning can include anything that feels heavy or is weighing on you. When you pause and take inventory of your inner space, patterns begin to emerge. You might notice recurring thoughts that drain your energy or narratives that no longer reflect who you are or align with who you want to be. This process isn’t always comfortable. It can feel similar to cleaning a neglected room which can be overwhelming at first. But after you start it gets easier.
How do you Spring Clean?
The next step in spring cleaning your mental space is to let go. Sometimes the things we need to get rid of are the things we hold attachment to. Holding on to old familiar worries or situations can feel comfortable, but letting go of these paves the way for new more constructive ideas to form. Liberating yourself from these mentally straining things doesn’t mean we are pretending they don’t exist, but instead deciding they no longer deserve a place in our mind.
Sometimes spring cleaning is more about change and less about “getting rid” of things. For example, a lot of mental weight can come from negative self-talk. Reframing these thoughts to more positive ones is a good way to change them. Instead of saying “I always mess things up,” we can say, “I am human and I make mistakes.”
Another thing that can be decluttered is what we consume. Setting boundaries on our digital devices can help. Turning off non-essential notifications and potential time limits can help if you are trying to do a digital cleanse. Watching out for when we consume is also important like in the morning or right before bed. Consuming things right when we wake up can set the mood for the day.
Spring cleaning for the mind isn’t about achieving perfection. It’s about making space to think clearly, to respond rather than react, and to grow into something new. When the mental clutter is cleared, even partially, there’s a noticeable shift. Consistency matters more than intensity. A single deep clean can feel transformative, but without maintenance, clutter returns. Small, regular check-ins with yourself can help keep you on track. Utilizing moments of reflection, journaling, or simply stepping back from constant stimulation can help keep your mental space clear and functional.
If you are struggling with mental “clutter” and need some extra help. We are here for you.
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