How I embrace spring cleaning for the mind, body, and soul

As the snow melts and the first flowers bloom, I welcome spring as a season of renewal. For me, spring cleaning isn’t just about scrubbing floors and reorganizing closets; it’s about decluttering my mind, refreshing my body, and realigning my spirit. Living with Huntington’s disease means that every season presents new challenges, but spring offers an opportunity to set the tone for the months ahead with fresh energy and clarity.

Spring cleaning has become a ritual of self-care, a time when I reassess what’s working for me and what’s weighing me down. Here’s how I approach spring cleaning for my mental and physical well-being while navigating life with Huntington’s.

Decluttering my space for a clearer mind: A cluttered environment often leads to a cluttered mind. Because Huntington’s affects my motor skills and energy levels, keeping my living space organized is essential for preventing stress and unnecessary frustration.

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I start with small, manageable tasks. Instead of tackling my entire home in one day, I break it down into sections. One day, I focus on my bedroom — rearranging furniture to ensure clear pathways, removing tripping hazards, and swapping out winter bedding for something lighter and fresher. Another day, I dedicate my time to organizing my kitchen, making sure frequently used items are within easy reach.

Decluttering also extends to my digital life. I take time to clear out old emails, unfollow accounts that no longer serve me on social media, and organize important medical documents so they are easy to access when needed. A clean space equals a clearer mind, allowing me to focus on what truly matters.

Setting myself up for a healthy body

Detoxing my body with nourishing choices: Spring is a time of renewal, and that includes my diet. Living with Huntington’s means I need to be mindful of my nutrition, as my body requires extra care to maintain strength and energy. As part of my spring reset, I reassess my eating habits, making sure I’m getting enough nutrient-dense foods that support brain health and combat inflammation.

I start incorporating more fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and omega-3-rich foods like salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts. Hydration is another key component; I make a conscious effort to drink more water, herbal teas, and smoothies packed with greens.

I also review my supplements with my doctor to see if any adjustments are needed. Making these small but impactful changes helps me feel more energized and in control of my health.

Refreshing my routine for physical and emotional strength: Huntington’s disease can make daily routines feel overwhelming at times, but spring cleaning also applies to the way I structure my days. This season, I take time to reflect on my daily habits. Are they supporting my well-being? Am I making time for rest, movement, and joy?

To stay active, I adjust my exercise routine to fit the season. If the weather is nice, I take short walks outside to soak in the sunshine and fresh air. Moving my body, even in small ways, helps with mobility and mood regulation. I also incorporate gentle stretching and meditation, which I’ve found beneficial for balance and relaxation.

My nighttime routine also gets a refresh. I create a calming bedtime environment by using soft lighting, essential oils, and soothing music. Prioritizing rest is crucial because fatigue exacerbates my symptoms, and quality sleep makes a significant difference in how I feel each day.

Releasing emotional clutter: Spring cleaning isn’t just about the physical; it’s about emotional renewal too. Carrying emotional baggage can be just as draining as a cluttered home. This season, I check in with myself: What thoughts, worries, or relationships are no longer serving me? What can I let go of to make space for peace and happiness?

I practice journaling to process my emotions, writing about my struggles, victories, and intentions for the season ahead. I also reassess my boundaries, ensuring I’m surrounding myself with supportive people who uplift me rather than drain my energy.

Cultivating joy and new beginnings: Spring reminds me that life is constantly evolving, and so am I. Instead of focusing on what Huntington’s has taken from me, I look at what I can still embrace. I make a list of activities that bring me joy and ensure I incorporate them into my routine. Whether it’s gardening, listening to music, reading, or spending time with my support system, I prioritize what makes my heart light up.

Note: Huntington’s Disease News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Huntington’s Disease News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Huntington’s disease.