Many individuals have faced challenges such as illness, economic instability, the climate crisis, grief, and racial disparities. In addition, factors like inflation, supply chain problems, and the aftermath of Russia's conflict with Ukraine are causing stress for many people in the United States, as shown by a recent survey for the American Psychological Association. Experts suggest that the arrival of spring can be a good opportunity to assess our mental well-being and reconnect with activities that bring us happiness and purpose, giving our minds a break when possible. This time of year is seen as ideal for individuals to reflect on their current situation and consider where they stand. Paul Napper, a psychology consultant for business leaders and co-author of "The Power of Agency: The 7 Principles to Conquer Obstacles, Make Effective Decisions and Create a Life on Your Own Terms," reflected on his experiences by asking, "What have I been through?" According to Napper, cultivating a focused and clear mind begins with making deliberate choices about how we use our time each day. When these decisions align with our values, interests, and passions, it demonstrates personal agency. Napper emphasized that there is always a choice, even if it may not be ideal. By evaluating our options, we can better adapt to our circumstances. To help declutter the mind as a new season approaches, here are five strategies to consider. Nkechi Njaka, a meditation guide in San Francisco with a background in neuroscience, emphasizes the importance of practicing mindfulness in order to combat the stress that comes with being human. Mindfulness meditation, which involves returning to the present moment when distracted, has been proven to reduce daily stress levels. Njaka suggests that when people notice their minds racing or feeling anxious, they are often focused on the past or future. To refocus on the present, she recommends starting by paying attention to bodily sensations, such as feeling the ground beneath you. The heat of the sun?” It is common for the mind to wander. If this happens, gently bring your focus back to your breath and return to the present. Being kind to yourself and approaching mindfulness with curiosity, openness, and forgiveness will make you more likely to continue practicing, she noted. Use transitional moments in the day, such as waking up, before or after meals, or changing your location, to practice mindfulness and establish a routine. Consider trying the Bullet Journal method, as research has shown that keeping a journal can enhance well-being. One popular method that has emerged recently is the Bullet Journal, created by digital designer Ryder Carroll and detailed in his bestselling book, "The Bullet Journal Method: Track the Past, Order the Present, Design the Future." This organizational system also serves as a mindfulness practice, prompting individuals to regularly assess how they are utilizing their time and energy and determine if those investments are worthwhile. Carroll emphasizes the importance of avoiding productivity on tasks that are not aligned with one's goals. Initially using journaling to enhance focus and advance his career due to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Carroll eventually delved into assessing the emotional impact of his accomplishments. By reflecting on whether tasks provided energy or drained it, he observed a trend: activities that brought a sense of purpose and pride involved aiding others and performing acts of service. He suggested that if you are unsure of what you want, you will never find contentment in what you already possess. To combat overwhelming amounts of information, Cal Newport, a computer science professor at Georgetown University and author of “Digital Minimalism: Choosing a Focused Life in a Noisy World,” advises simplifying your news consumption. Instead of being bombarded by various sources, he suggests choosing one or two reliable sources to read at a designated time each day. For example, you could listen to a news podcast during your commute or read a newspaper during breakfast. Newport, who is 39 years old and has never used social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, or TikTok, also recommends taking a 30-day break from optional technologies in your life. He wrote about the experience of 1,600 individuals who attempted it, noting that those who completed the entire 30 days were enthusiastic and determined to make the most of their time. Instead of mindlessly using social media in your spare moments, consider engaging in other activities such as reading, going for a walk in nature, or simply relaxing and listening to music. Allocate time for those activities. Clear out your physical space. During the pandemic, and especially during lockdown, many people have started to declutter their homes, a trend The Washington Post called the "great decluttering." If you haven't tackled your clutter yet, now is a good time to do so. According to Catherine Roster, a professor at the University of New Mexico, messy spaces can hinder clear thinking and impact various aspects of a person's life, including emotions and productivity. If hiring a professional organizer is not an option, Roster recommends enlisting a friend who is also decluttering to provide support and help make decisions about what to keep. Listening to music while sorting and organizing can help motivate you, according to Barbara Greenberg, a clinical psychologist. Many of her patients are feeling emotionally cluttered due to information overload and social isolation or unmet emotional needs. She advises reconnecting with loved ones who bring support and positivity into your life. If it has been a long time since you last communicated with someone, it may feel strange at first to reach out again. However, Greenberg suggests being straightforward and honest. You could explain the situation by saying something like, "We lost touch during the pandemic, but now things are settling down and I would love to reconnect with you. Not being able to see you has been something I have missed." This could lead to a positive domino effect where the person you contacted feels motivated to reach out to others as well. "Everyone appreciates receiving that kind of communication," she added. Copyright 2022 by The New York Times Company.