How a clear-out can help your HEALTH

We discover whether decluttering can really cleanse your body and mind

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Christmas presents still sitting on the side? Or maybe you spotted a pile of junk in a corner of the loft when you put the decorations away. Clothes, books, old documents... so much stuff. Research by eBay found that, on average, we each have £2,600 worth of unwanted possessions in our homes. But these things don't just take up physical space - they hog our mental space, too. January is a great time to have a clear-out and declutter - and it could help improve your physical and mental health. Here's how.

Messing with your head

By getting rid of items you no longer use, you make room in your life. This not only makes your surroundings more enjoyable, but it also improves your mental health. 'An overcrowded environment can lead to increased stress levels,' says wellness expert Samantha Greener, as the sensory overload caused by the visual clutter triggers the stress hormone cortisol. It may also block productivity and cause anxiety, leaving us feeling overwhelmed. Not only will stress levels drop, but you'll also have the time and headspace to do something you want - whether that's exercising, a hobby or enjoying some downtime.

Body boost