Spring Cleaning: A Ritual of Renewal for Body, Mind, and Soul

There’s something about spring that feels inherently restorative, isn’t there? The air gets lighter, the world starts to bloom again, and I find myself craving a fresh start—not just for my apartment, but for my mind as well. As a gay man in my 40s, I’ve come to realize that spring cleaning is more than just tidying up; it’s a sacred act of renewal, a way to clear out mental clutter and reconnect with myself.

There’s a certain almost meditative quality to cleaning. It’s like hitting a reset button on your space—and, in turn, on your mental state. I love to turn on my favorite playlists—Madonna’s empowering anthems, ABBA’s timeless pop hits, Britney’s retro tunes—and let the music carry me through the work. Dancing around my apartment like a diva, singing along at the top of my lungs, makes the process feel less like a chore and more like a celebration. It’s a reminder that life is to be enjoyed, even in the midst of dusting and scrubbing…which can be a LOT. Trust me. 

Now, I won’t pretend that cleaning is quick or easy—particularly because I live in an old Victorian apartment, which can be a real labor of love. My partner and I usually spend anywhere from six to eight hours tackling everything. It’s physically demanding, and sometimes overwhelming. That’s when I remind myself to slow down, take breaks, and breathe. Cleaning isn’t a race; it’s a process. I’ll step back, take a sip of water or Liquid IV, stretch a little, and give myself permission to pause. Sometimes, just a few moments of rest make all the difference.

And if you’re like me, sometimes avoiding cleaning can be a sign of something deeper—perhaps a mental health challenge or just feeling overwhelmed by life. That’s okay. It’s important to take cleaning in stride, to be gentle with yourself. Not every day has to be perfect, and sometimes, the act of doing just a little bit is enough. Recognizing that is part of caring for yourself.

When the job is finally done, I love rewarding myself. I’ll order a pizza—something cheesy and comforting—and settle in for a night of simple pleasures. After a long day of scrubbing and dusting, a hot shower feels like a true reset, washing away the sweat and exhaustion. Then, I’ll curl up on the couch, wrapped in a “True Blood” blanket, and watch a newly released horror film. It sounds unexpected, but after a day of physical effort, that mix of adrenaline and relaxation feels perfect. It’s a small way to celebrate my effort and give myself permission to unwind. …And then I crash. 

Spring cleaning is about creating space—both physically and mentally—to breathe, to reflect, and to reset. It’s a chance to shed the mental dust that’s accumulated over time and to welcome a brighter, more energized version of myself and for my clients. As I wipe down surfaces and clear out clutter, I also take time to breathe deeply and think about what I want the coming months to bring.

I highly encourage you to embrace the cleaning process at your own pace. Play your favorite music, use scents that lift you up, and don’t forget to take breaks. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and treat yourself afterward. Whether it’s a favorite meal, a good movie, or simply some quiet time, reward yourself for showing up.

Here’s to spring—a season of renewal, music, and feeling more alive than ever. Trust me, your space and your mental health will thank you. Sometimes, a little dusting and decluttering are just what the soul needs to feel renewed.