The cold season creates favorable psychological and practical conditions for a large-scale cleaning. Space organization experts note that in winter, people more often notice clutter, find it easier to part with unnecessary items, and quickly regain a sense of control and calm.
Why Winter Encourages Organization
In winter, people spend significantly more time at home, making clutter more noticeable. Overstuffed closets, shelves, and drawers no longer "hide" behind the active pace of life, and thus have a greater impact on emotional well-being. According to Martha Stewart, this is the time when cleaning helps restore a sense of structure and reduce everyday stress.
Psychologists also link the winter urge for order to seasonal mood changes. The short daylight hours and decreased energy levels make large goals seem unattainable, while small, manageable tasks—such as sorting one drawer—provide quick and tangible results. Such actions stimulate dopamine production and enhance the feeling of control over the situation.
Post-Holiday Reset and Reevaluation of Values
After the New Year celebrations and a busy social period, many feel tired and in need of a "reset." In this context, cleaning becomes not only a household necessity but also a way to restore inner balance. Minimalism experts note that spending extended time at home helps to objectively assess which items are truly used and beneficial, and which merely take up space.
Moreover, January and February are traditionally considered quieter months in terms of meetings, trips, and events. This allows for a more methodical approach to cleaning, without haste, completing long-postponed tasks.
Preparing for Spring Begins in Winter
Experts agree that even small daily steps toward organization in winter help enter the spring season with a sense of lightness and renewal. Freed-up space and a structured environment create a favorable backdrop for new plans and ideas.
Thus, winter is not only a period of cold and short days but also an optimal time for mindful spring cleaning that benefits both the home and psychological state.
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