Issue link: https://nest.uberflip.com/i/1284887
discipline and a lack of responsiveness); and child behavior problems such as impulsivity, conduct problems and delinquency. Caregivers who report elevated levels of chaos in the home had children described by teachers as having elevated levels of behavioral problems. Household clutter and excess visual stimuli create tension in the home as well. Children tend to act out more in a cluttered home which further impacts the way a mother responds to them. Mothers who feel frazzled often become more authoritarian and harsher in their parenting style. If you have a high volume of clutter, it's likely a subconscious distraction tactic to cover up resentment, regret or remorse. The clutter contributes to keeping these heavy, dense emotions anchored in and covered up. The negative energy is simply projected back onto yourself and is in essence a form of self- betrayal. This is a toxic pattern that can lead to physical disease. Many people who accumulate material goods do so to increase their happiness and satisfaction, though the opposite may be true. Those who are heavily materialistic tend to be less satisfied with their possessions than those who prefer a simple lifestyle. Clutter tends to decrease relaxation as it gives an individual too much to think about and plenty to maintain. Overall well being can be improved by decreasing clutter and aiming for a simpler lifestyle. Although it's not always easy to start that process —or even know where to start. Photo: Lisa VanDoorne