As the daffodils and crocuses start to push through the soil and the days stretch a little longer, our thoughts naturally turn to new beginnings and fresh starts. Spring cleaning is usually about scrubbing our homes and clearing out the clutter, but giving our minds a bit of a refresh can be just as valuable.

When our minds are overloaded, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Mental clutter can take many forms; negative self-talk, unhelpful thought patterns, or emotions we haven’t quite processed. Taking time to journal or simply reflect can help pinpoint what’s weighing you down.

One way to approach this is by identifying the emotional burdens you’re still carrying. What are you holding onto that no longer serves you? Writing a “letting go” list or doing something symbolic, like ripping up a piece of paper, can be a simple but powerful way to release what’s no longer needed. If it feels right, seek closure, whether that’s through a conversation or personal reflection.

Spring is also a great time to reassess your mental well-being habits. Are your current coping mechanisms actually helping you, or are they just keeping you stuck? Think about whether your daily routines energise you or drain you. Small tweakslike practising mindfulness in the morning, getting outside for some fresh air, or cutting down on screen time; can make a big difference.

And speaking of screen time, this is the perfect opportunity to detox your digital world. Social media can be a wonderful tool, but if certain accounts leave you feeling inadequate, hit that unfollow button. Take stock of who and what lifts you up, and who or what drains you. Remember, the polished snapshots we see online rarely show the full picture.

Spring cleaning isn’t just about decluttering; it’s also about making space for what brings you joy. What do you want more of in your life? Set goals that focus on progress, not perfection.

Finally, instead of just thinking about what needs fixing, take a moment to appreciate what’s already going well. A gratitude journal can be a great way to do this, or you can simply pause to acknowledge the small wins each day.

A little spring refresh, inside and out, can help set the tone for the season ahead.