Eat Clean, Health and Dream: Decluttering Your Space, Clearing Your Mind

Decluttering is often bundled neatly into the idea of “spring cleaning” — a once-a-year overhaul when the sun finally shows its face and we feel inspired to throw open the windows and purge the old. But the truth is, decluttering isn’t seasonal. It’s a mindset, a habit, and for many of us, a gradual evolution that comes with time, life experience, and shifting priorities.

Because let’s be honest — we all accumulate stuff. Not always because we need it, but because life happens. We move, we grow, people pass things on, we hold onto items for “just in case” or sentimental reasons. Before we know it, cupboards are full, drawers won’t close, and boxes sit untouched, quietly gathering dust.

I’ve always been someone who did the occasional clear-out — clothes, shoes, bits and pieces — ever since I left home at 18. But true decluttering? That came later. It came with moving, downsizing, and rethinking how I wanted to live. Going from a large family home to a one-bedroom flat, then into a small cabin, really changes your perspective. Space becomes precious. Every item has to earn its place.

Now, as we build our next home, I’ve made a promise to myself — and to Craig — that we’ll start as we mean to go on. BUT, I have sworn to myself and told Craig that we will start as we mean to go on, nothing comes into that house from the off, that we don't use. This is something I will have to be strict on! Nothing comes into that house unless it has a purpose, is used, or genuinely brings joy. That will take discipline, especially when living with someone who leans more toward hoarding than clearing out!

From “More” to Meaningful

Like many, I’ve been caught up in overconsumption in the past. There was a time when I believed more things meant more happiness — or even status. Expensive clothes, designer labels, impulse buys that felt exciting in the moment but quickly lost their shine.

But have since realised that a happy life doesn't mean to fill it with lots of stuff (as in things objects - quite often over priced, trendy CRAP quite honestly) things that seem a really good idea, you use once and then it sits hidden or gathering dust.

Plus I don't like mess, more so at this age, especially when you share your small home with another adult who doesn't like I said clear out things, and between 2 and 4 teenagers or preteens who all but one are in that stage of to be popular they have to have this this and this... or the influencers and yes we have all been taken in by adverts and celebs in our time.

I will be the first to admit I used to spend a fortune and be more concerned about who I was wearing and what it would look like - £300 or more on handbag or a pair of jeans - wtf no way would I do that now!!

Looking back, it was never about the items themselves. It was about how they made me feel — briefly.

Now, my mindset has shifted.

I ask myself:

• Do I need it?

• Do I love it?

• Will I actually use it?

• Does it bring me joy when I see or wear it?

  
  

If the answer is no, it doesn’t belong in my space.

I remember when I relocated to Devon, clearing out clothes some still with labels and never worn from some top designers (admittedly not all brought by me) but still that is a waste, now I buy a few key items generally from a few different eco or sustainable sources and things I have a think about and not rash purchase.

I must admit I am still a sucker for a surf, or beach lifestyle shop and will still look and have a nosy and occasionally buy something that I will wear and feel good in. That was one of the reasons I started my beach, outdoors lifestyle brand 'Ocean Daze'.

Living a more outdoor, coastal lifestyle has reinforced this even further. When you spend your time on the beach, in the sea, or walking muddy lanes, expensive “fashion” quickly loses its appeal. Practical, comfortable, and meaningful wins every time.

Decluttering and Mental Health

Decluttering isn’t just about creating physical space — it’s about creating mental space too.

A cluttered environment can feel overwhelming, distracting, and even stressful. It’s visual noise. It can make it harder to focus, relax, or feel in control. On the flip side, a clear, organised space brings a sense of calm, clarity, and accomplishment.

It’s no coincidence that during times of stress, one of the most productive things you can do is something physical and tangible — like sorting a drawer, a cupboard, or a single box. It gives you:

• A sense of control

• A clear beginning and end

• Visible progress

• A mental reset

I often suggest this during stress management sessions. It’s simple, practical, and incredibly effective. At the end of it, you’ve not only done something — you’ve improved your environment and your mindset.

Decluttering as an Ongoing Process

Decluttering isn’t a one-off event. It’s something I’ve learned to do little and often, so it never becomes overwhelming.

That might mean:

• A drawer one day

• A cupboard the next

• A quick wardrobe review every few months

It becomes part of life, rather than a dreaded task.

Even now, with boxes in storage waiting for the new house, I’m continuing the process.

Being ruthless has been key:

• Don’t use it? Let it go.

• Don’t like it? Let it go.

• Haven’t worn it in a year? Let it go.

(Yes, even seasonal items get questioned.)

Practical Tips to Get Started

If you’ve been putting off a clear-out, here are some simple, realistic ways to begin:

Tip 1: Start Small

One box, one drawer, one cupboard. Keep it manageable to avoid overwhelm.

Tip 2: Create Clear Piles

Keep, Sell, Donate, Bin — and act on them straight away. (Then Bin straight away, put the box or bag for charity in your car or out of way so it doesn't sit around).

Tip 3: Don’t Let Selling Become Clutter

List items quickly. If they don’t sell within a set time, reduce the price or donate.

Tip 4: Set Time Limits

Short, focused sessions are more effective than long, exhausting ones. (This is what I am getting used to as otherwise it's counterproductive as have a box or bag of selling stuff laying around, generally it's been in my office).

Tip 5: Be Honest With Yourself

Especially with clothes — does it fit? Do you wear it? Or is it tied to a “maybe” version of you?

Tip 6: Involve Kids (But Carefully)

Get their input, but avoid turning it into a battle mid-clear-out.

Tip 7: Clean as You Go

It adds to the sense of achievement and gives you a fresh, reset space.

Tip 8: Think Before You Buy

Pause and ask why you’re buying something. Need, habit, or emotion?

Tip 9: Communicate Your Intentions

Let family know you’re reducing clutter — it helps avoid unwanted items being passed on.

Tip 10: Focus on Value, Not Volume

Experiences, memories, and meaningful items will always outweigh “stuff.”

Making Space for What Matters

Decluttering isn’t about living with nothing. It’s about living with intention.

It’s about creating space for:

• Better habits

• Clearer thinking

• Healthier routines

• Meaningful experiences

It aligns perfectly with the idea of “Eat Clean, Health and Dream.” Because a clear space supports a clear mind — and a clear mind helps you focus on what truly matters.

And yes, there’s often a practical bonus too — a bit of extra cash from selling unused items.

But more importantly, there’s a shift in mindset. One that moves away from excess and toward purpose.

At the end of the day, it’s simple:

Cleaner space, clearer head, better life.