Mental Health Awareness and Car Cleaning

Cleaning and decluttering is proven to be good for your mental health and, subsequently, your physical health. Car cleaning can certainly also be considered a therapeutic experience! Take a look at some of the ways you can benefit from getting out and pampering your four wheeled friend.

1. Fresh air and movement

Research shows that being outside and enjoying the fresh smells around you can help to reduce stress and anxiety. It is also well known that movement has a positive effect on your brain's activity. Even as little as 15 minutes of movement is beneficial for you. Get your body moving, breathe in the fresh air, and give your car some TLC to kill three birds with one stone! A decent maintenance wash of your car should take around an hour, giving your body time to destress and your brain a chance to wind down.

2. It's what's inside that counts

Ever felt more stressed when you look at a cluttered room? Does a messy and untidy environment make your brain feel messy and untidy? That's because clutter can contribute to higher stress levels and an increase in distraction. It's important to not only clean the exterior of your car, but to also focus on the inside. Clear out any rubbish, grab your favourite interior cleaner, and get rid of any dust, germs, fingerprints, and stains.

3. Mindfulness

Detailing allows you to engage more than one of the senses. Throughout cleaning paintwork and wheels, polishing, waxing, coating, and eliminating odours inside, you hone in on sights, smells, sounds, and textures associated with each process. This can help ground you and allow you to clear your brain of any outside noise and chatter. Next time you clean your car, focus on the process and don't let your thoughts wander.

If you or anyone you know is suffering with their mental health, please seek help. The world is better with you in it.

NHS Mental Health Services