Cleaning your house can help tidy your mind, says this Buddhist monk

"Cleaning is a great practice, which reminds you of the connection with the ground and the Earth and the universe." To Buddhists, cleaning is not just cleaning. In Zen Buddhism, it’s known as samu, or work practice and it offers the chance to meditate and be present in the midst of daily tasks.

Cleaning is not just about making your house look nice. It can also be a way to de-clutter your mind and improve your overall well-being. That's according to Brother Andy Matsumoto, a Zen Buddhist monk and the author of the book "A Monk's Guide to a Clean House and Mind."

How Cleaning Can Benefit Your Mind

Matsumoto says that cleaning can help you to:

Focus on the present moment. When you're cleaning, it's important to focus on the task at hand and not let your mind wander. This can help you to develop mindfulness, which is the practice of paying attention to the present moment without judgment.
Let go of negative thoughts and emotions. As you clean, you may notice that you start to think about things that are bothering you. Instead of dwelling on these thoughts, try to let them go. This can help to clear your mind and improve your mood.
Build self-confidence. When you complete a cleaning task, it can give you a sense of accomplishment and boost your self-confidence. This is especially important if you're feeling stressed or overwhelmed.
Connect with your surroundings. As you clean, take some time to appreciate the order and cleanliness of your surroundings. This can help you to feel more grounded and connected to the present moment.

How to Turn Cleaning Into a Meditation

If you're new to the idea of using cleaning as a form of meditation, Matsumoto recommends starting with small tasks, such as washing the dishes or tidying up your desk. Once you've gotten the hang of it, you can gradually work your way up to larger tasks, such as cleaning your entire house.