Spring cleaning in our living space benefits not only our health from a scientific standpoint, but also from cultural perspectives. 

Studies have shown that cleaner homes report better health level compared to more cluttered homes. The absence of clutter enables increased focus and the ability to concentrate. A study in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin found that women who felt their homes were restful and restorative had lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol than women who described their homes as cluttered or full of unfinished projects.

There are also physical and environmental health benefits, such as reduced allergens, improved indoor air quality, and a lower risk of illness due to the elimination of germs and bacteria. 

Now that we’ve established the many perks of spring cleaning, what about its cultural significance? Interestingly, spring cleaning is also a tradition ingrained worldwide. It crosses continents and cultures with one common thread—driving away “bad luck” and welcoming in new, positive energy.

POSITIVE CHI THROUGH FENG SHUI

In Chinese culture, spring cleaning is a vital part of Feng Shui, which is the art of harmonising the environment. The Chinese characters for “dust 尘” and “old 陈” sound alike, symbolising that the clearing of dust is like sweeping away the old. 

That is also why spring cleaning is carried out before the Lunar New Year. It is regarded as a practice of making way for the new year’s good luck and prosperity. 

From cleaning the surroundings to washing various household items, putting up a fresh set of curtains and bedding, wiping windows and washing the floor, dusting, and repairing or replacing broken items, most families clean their homes to welcome the arrival of the Lunar New Year.

Here are some of the common practices:

• Deep cleaning: A thorough cleaning purifies your space, encouraging the flow of positive energy, or “chi”. While cleaning your entire home can be a monumental task but the benefits are multifold. Alternatively, you can hire professional cleaning providers to help you out, from cleaning the windows to deep cleaning the carpets.  

• Clearing clutter: By removing unnecessary items from your home, you also remove stagnation and negative energy, allowing energy to circulate and promote a harmonious environment. Organise items and put them in their proper places, and walk through your home to make sure that you have clear paths and living spaces.

INVITING PROSPERITY AND HEALTH THROUGH VASTU SHASTRA

The principles of Vastu Shastra are similar to Feng Shui, emphasising the importance of decluttering and cleanliness. Deepavali, the festival of lights, is also a time for thorough cleaning, symbolising a fresh start and inviting prosperity and health into the home. 

Here are some tips to maintain a good energy flow in the house:

• Open spaces: Adequate open spaces, windows, and ventilation are essential in Vastu Shastra. With good airflow and natural light, your family will live in a healthier and vibrant environment. 

• Decluttering: Regular cleaning and organising enhance the positive energy in your home. It’s undeniable that by clearing and reorganising items in our home, we create more positive surroundings. Decluttering unused items can also clear up mental space.

PHYSICAL CLEANLINESS AND SPIRITUAL RENEWAL FROM AN ISLAMIC PERSPECTIVE

In Islam, cleanliness is both a physical and spiritual necessity. The books of Hadith and the Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence) start with a chapter on cleanliness, which indicates the importance of cleanliness. There are two terms used in Islamic literature: taharah and nazafah. Taharah literally means cleanliness from physical impurities, while nazafah, meaning neatness, is a desirable attribute. Spring cleaning is an opportunity to fulfil the concept of taharah by promoting a clean and purified environment. 

Muslims engage in spring cleaning during special occasions such as Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Hari Haji, before Ramadan, weddings, and special family events. This thorough cleaning goes beyond just physical tidiness, serving as a means of spiritual renewal. It fosters well-being and symbolises a fresh beginning. Apart from deep cleaning, decluttering the home and donating items to charity not only clears up space, but also fulfils the important Islamic principle of helping those in need.

PROFESSIONAL CLEANING FOR RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL PREMISES

Spring cleaning can certainly set up your home for a healthier and harmonious environment. Maclean is a full-fledged expert in cleaning for residential and commercial premises, we can help you achieve this. Our services also include move in and move out cleaning, post party clean up, spring cleaning for high-level areas, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and pest control to make your premise spotless and welcoming. 

WhatsApp us at 019-292 1105 or email [email protected] to explore our services. Quote “ExpatGo01” when you contact us and enjoy a special price on our services for expats.

Read more articles on Maclean’s blog: https://www.maclean.com.my/blog