The podcast Simplified Spaces explores “When Decluttering Becomes Control: Identifying Toxic Minimalism.” Host Mansi Kapoor explains that minimalism should free you, but can sometimes turn into an obsession. She shares Riya’s story — a joyful minimalist makeover that soon spiraled into strict rules, anxiety and sleeplessness. This, Mansi says, is toxic minimalism, where tidiness becomes more important than comfort or relationships. Research from the American Psychological Association shows 36% of extreme declutterers are reacting to stress, not style. Key red flags include guilt over keeping useful items, prioritizing tidiness over people, and being unable to relax unless everything is perfect. Mansi offers mindset shifts to break the cycle: replace “Less is more” with “Enough is enough,” keep sentimental items, and create flexible zones. She suggests monthly check-ins to clarify whether you’re creating space for peace or trying to control chaos. Minimalism, she reminds listeners, is not a competition but a personal balance between values and lifestyle. A home should support its people — not demand perfection from them. The episode encourages reflection before impulsively discarding belongings. Ultimately, decluttering should be about nurturing yourself, not fixing yourself.

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