Chapter 1: The Therapeutic Nature of Household Chores

Engaging in household tasks can be a surprisingly therapeutic experience. For those of us with demanding jobs, like myself, weekends can often feel overwhelming due to constant commitments.

While I love taking nature walks, the intense heat in Malaysia limits my options, leaving early mornings as the only suitable time. Fortunately, I've found a delightful alternative that may seem unconventional but truly uplifts my spirits.

It may sound odd, but I've discovered that performing household chores, especially cleaning and organizing, brings me a sense of calm and relaxation. I eagerly anticipate my weekend grocery trips, followed by the satisfaction of tidying up my home.

However, I must admit that social engagements on weekends can be a bit frustrating. I would much prefer to stay home and create a tidy living space.

Certain chores, like washing dishes and hanging laundry, are less enjoyable for me. My hands often get dry from dish soap, and damp clothes can be cumbersome, which is a common scenario for many Malaysians without dryers.

Despite these dislikes, I find joy in completing chores while listening to soothing instrumental music. Recently, I've been enjoying piano lounge playlists on Spotify, allowing my mind to wander and inspire future writing projects.

Mindfulness isn't always necessary in every task; after all, how much awareness is required when scrubbing a toilet? Dusting, on the other hand, is my favorite chore because I get to appreciate the various cherished items I have on display.

I often reminisce about the backstories of these items, which turns dusting into a nostalgic journey. When I clean my home, I envision it as a way to sweep away negative energy. Using a traditional broom, I genuinely feel like I'm cleansing my space of bad vibes.

After sweeping, I mop the floors, creating a sense of renewal and lightness in my environment, which helps me feel more at ease. Occasionally rearranging furniture provides a fresh perspective, akin to a new beginning.

Ultimately, a clean environment significantly contributes to my well-being. Although my work desk tends to get cluttered during the week due to my home office setup, I make it a habit to tidy it up weekly.

What about you? Do you enjoy household chores, or are there certain tasks you dread? I invite you to share your thoughts in the comments!

This reflection draws inspiration from Liberty Forrest's HHH newsletter: What’s your “go-to” solution when feeling overwhelmed?

Section 1.1: The Benefits of Household Chores

Household chores can be more than just mundane tasks; they offer significant mental health benefits.

Subsection 1.1.1: Finding Joy in Routine

Consider how engaging in chores can provide a sense of accomplishment and clarity.

Chapter 2: Embracing the Magic of Cleaning

Cleaning can transform your mindset and environment.

In this video, "Household Chores Turned Into Exercises | Brooks Rehabilitation," you’ll learn how to turn routine tasks into beneficial physical activity, enhancing both your physical and mental health.

The second video, "Getting children involved in household chores teaches valuable lessons, improves mental health," highlights the importance of including kids in household tasks, fostering valuable life skills and mental wellness.