TABLE OF CONTENTS
5 Ways Visual Clutter Causes Anxiety
ZEN TIPS for Overloaded Surfaces
ZEN TIPS for Excessive Décor and Personal Items
ZEN TIPS for Untidy Cables and Wires
ZEN TIPS for Unsorted Collections
ZEN TIPS for Cluttered Entryways
5 Key Decluttering Practices
Key Takeaway Summary
Other Blog Articles
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In this article, we’ll take a closer look at 5 Ways Visual Clutter Causes Anxiety – Overloaded surfaces, excessive décor & personal items, untidy cables & wires, unsorted collections and cluttered entryways.
Subliminal visual noise in the home, often referred to as visual clutter, can significantly impact mental well-being, potentially leading to increased levels of anxiety. Visual clutter comprises any unnecessary, overwhelming, or chaotic visual stimuli that occupy the visual field, making it hard for the brain to process information and maintain focus. The concept of visual noise goes beyond mere aesthetics; it delves into the cognitive load imposed by disorganized and excessive stimuli. Understanding how specific types of visual clutter contribute to anxiety can help individuals create more calming and organized living environments.
1. Overloaded Surfaces
One of the most common examples of visual clutter in the home is overloaded surfaces. Kitchen counters, desks, and coffee tables cluttered with miscellaneous items like mail, keys, gadgets, and random objects can create a sense of chaos. This mess distracts the eye and mind, preventing relaxation. For instance, a study published in the journal “Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin” found that women with cluttered homes exhibited higher levels of the stress hormone cortisol. It can be much more difficult to be perform standard daily tasks like cooking or paying bills when every surface is cluttered with items. This can lead to an immediate feeling of anxiety because oftentimes an overwhelming feeling of not knowing where to begin ensues.
ZEN TIPS: Prioritize Essentials, Create Zones and Use Storage Solutions
Keep only essential items on the surface; store or relocate the rest. Then designate specific areas for different types of items to maintain order and functionality. Finally, incorporate trays, baskets, or organizers to group items and keep the surface tidy.
2. Excessive Décor and Personal Items
While personal keepsakes and décor on display can enhance a home’s aesthetic appeal, too much can lead to visual clutter and cause anxiety. Walls filled with an abundance of pictures, shelves overflowing with knick-knacks, and tables covered with various trinkets can create an overwhelming visual environment. This form of visual clutter not only distracts but can also make spaces feel smaller and more cramped, contributing to a sense of confinement, claustrophobia and stress.
3. Untidy Cables and Wires
In the age of technology, cables and wires from various electronic devices often become entangled and spread across floors, desks, and entertainment centers. This messiness disrupts the visual harmony of a room and acts as constant subliminal noise and visual clutter. A tangled mass of cords not only looks unsightly but also serves as a constant reminder of disorganization and pending tasks, which can elevate anxiety levels with a nagging sense urgency.
4. Unsorted Collections
Many people collect items such as books, magazines, toys, or memorabilia. When these collections are unsorted or poorly organized, they add to visual clutter. For example, a bookshelf crammed with books in no particular order can overwhelm the visual senses, making it difficult for the mind to relax. Similarly, piles of unsorted magazines or toys strewn about a play area contribute to a chaotic atmosphere which can subliminally create a feeling of malcontent unease.
5. Cluttered Entryways
The entryway is the first area encountered upon entering a home and sets the tone for the entire living space. A cluttered entryway with shoes, coats, bags, and other items strewn about can create an immediate sense of disorder. This initial visual clutter noise can make it difficult to transition smoothly from the outside world into the home environment, increasing stress and preventing a sense of sanctuary which is what we all want when we come home.
ZEN TIPS: Evaluate Sentimental Value and Set Limits
Keep items with strong personal significance and consider parting with less meaningful pieces. Decide on a set number of items that will work well in the space and part with the rest or consider swapping things out seasonally for a fresh look. Pare down photos by using a digital picture frame with a slideshow capability.
ZEN TIPS: Use Cable Organizers or Velcro Straps and Label
Invest in cable clips, ties, or sleeves to bundle and manage cables neatly. For cords that are used regularly such as phone chargers, Velcro straps are reusable and flexible for bundling cables without damaging them. Use labels or color-coded tags to easily identify cables and prevent confusion.
ZEN TIPS: Display Selectively, Implement Vertical Storage, Categorize and Label
Choose a select number of items to display prominently while purging the rest. Utilize wall-mounted shelves or tall storage units to maximize space and reduce surface clutter. Group items by type, theme, or usage to create an organized system. Clearly label for ease of locating items and maintaining everything in order.
ZEN TIPS: Install Hooks & Racks, Add a Bench with Storage and Use Baskets
Use wall-mounted hooks or racks for coats, bags, and hats to keep them off the floor. Incorporate a bench with built-in storage for shoes, bags, or other items, providing a convenient place to sit and organize. Use baskets or bins for items like mail, keys, or pet supplies to keep them contained and easily accessible.
5 KEY DECLUTTERING PRACTICES
#1. Embrace Minimalism
Consider adopting a minimalistic approach whereas exposed horizontal surfaces ARE NOT considered permanent storage areas but rather open spaces for task prep, temporary items (like a nice glass of Merlot and charcuterie board…oh yeah!), or to display a few well-curated personal and/or decorative items. Less is more but doesn’t necessarily mean barren.
#2. Purge Unused Stuff
Get rid of items from drawers, cabinets, closets, and pantries that are not being utilized to provide a permanent, hidden home for items you routinely use. By decluttering and organizing these spaces, you create an efficient storage system that keeps frequently used items readily accessible and ensures a consistently tidy and organized space.
#3. Identify Dual Purpose Items
Separate utilitarian items that can double as decorative pieces and incorporate smart storage solutions like open shelves to display them. Additionally, consider adding multi-purpose furniture to maximize functionality. Efficiently use vertical space with wall-mounted storage to create a more organized and aesthetically pleasing environment.
#4. Conceal in Plain Sight
If you absolutely must utilize part of your surfaces as permanent storage due to limited space, opt to house them in a clear or decorative container that blends well with the overall look and feel of the space. Sticking to one color or material type will further help to minimize the prominence of these containers and tamp down their visual stimulation.
#5. Maintain a Consistent Tidying Routine
It is a great practice to make decluttering and organizing a part of your regular morning or end-of-day routine to avoid out-of-place things from piling up. This prevents your space from becoming chaotic and overwhelming, reducing the tendency to procrastinate and ultimately alleviating stress and anxiety in your daily life.
Key Takeaway Summary
Ultimately, we have identified quite a few ways subliminal visual noise from clutter and disorganization can increase anxiety and stress. Addressing specific sources of visual clutter can help create a more tranquil and harmonious living environment, enhancing one’s mental well-being.
To reduce visual noise, implement the strategies mentioned above for decluttering and organizing your home. Regularly clear surfaces, limit decorations to a few meaningful items, and manage cables to improve visual harmony. Systematically organize collections, and keep entryways tidy to create a calmer living space.
If you are still finding it challenging to get it all under control, reach out today to book a clutter coaching session.
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