Decluttering Can Lower Your Stress Level

This is a good article from Realage.com on the connection between clutter and that feeling of stress and overwhelm.


When you're so stressed you can't think straight, take a quick look around. See lots of clutter? Consider it a sign.

In her book, The Superstress Solution, physician and author Roberta Lee writes that a disorganized, untidy, clutter-filled home is not only a symptom of stress but also a source of stress. Clean up the litter and you'll dial up the calm.

The Science of Stress and Clutter
According to Lee, research shows that we secrete the stress hormone cortisol when surrounded by disarray. Bad news for your body. But the good news is that you know exactly what to do about it. With a quick tidy-up, you could reclaim both your surroundings and your serenity. Don't know where to start your spring clean-out? Try these tips:

* Take baby steps. It probably took a long time to accumulate all your clutter, so give yourself time to clear it out. Break up the task into manageable chunks, starting with one room, one corner, one junk drawer, or one cupboard at a time. (Find out how few minutes of clean-up time you need to boost your mood.)
* Set a schedule. Whether you do 20 minutes a day or reserve a whole weekend to declutter, set aside the time you need, and stick to your schedule. (Can't seem to find the time? The real problem may be energy management, not time management.)
* Write it down. Lee recommends keeping a journal to help you set goals and record positive changes you've made to your environment. Ask yourself what's cluttering your life, why you keep it, and what parts of your life and house seem out of control. Then, list concrete steps for changing it.
* Reach out. Articles and self-help books from people who've been where you are can help you get organized and make decisions on what to toss, what to donate, and what to keep.

How To Escape a Boring Life

How To Escape a Boring Life

Go into a cave the end of March
Lie down next to the sleeping bear
Throw your arm softly around her
Listen for her heartbeat

Throw a rock at the neighborhood bully
Watch the blood soak the rag he puts to his head
Wait a minute before turning to run
Down the dark alley

Get on a bus and end up in Mexico
Walk down the streets with your backpack
Left open a little and bulging
Don’t walk very fast

Let the Hell’s Angel come to your place
For a drink or to look at your books
Have him stay over and fix him some eggs
Ask him to let out your dog

Stand on your chair
At the French restaurant
Make up a song for your lover
Get the others to join you

Open your coat to the rain
Step into the fountain
Grab the change at the bottom
And spend it on peonies