Sometimes when I’m overwhelmed with work, my desk tells the story – piles of papers everywhere, computer desktop crowded with files, and an ever-increasing To Do list… 

That’s when I know I need to pause! 

I’ve come to use this as a “canary in the coal mine” – an early indicator that I need to reset.

This morning was one of those moments. 

As I declutter my desk this morning, I’m struck by how much clearer my thoughts feel when my visual space is organised. 

This connects beautifully with fascinating new research from Yale that explores how visual clutter affects our brain’s information processing.* 

In my work as a neurologist, I’m constantly amazed by how deeply our environment affects our brain function.

How does visual clutter affect your brain health? 

Your brain is constantly processing everything in your field of vision – not just what you’re focusing on! 

Think of it like a busy highway – too much visual clutter slows down your brain’s information processing*

3 Tips for Visual Clarity and Brain Health

1️⃣ Create Visual Breathing Space 

Your brain needs visual “white space” to process information effectively. 

Just like you need physical space to breathe, your brain needs visual space to think clearly. 

Try creating a clutter-free zone in your main focal area – whether it’s your desk or your digital workspace (something that I keep reminding myself to do!)

2️⃣ Manage Your Digital Visual Field 

Your brain processes digital clutter just like physical clutter. 

Close unnecessary browser tabs and keep your desktop organised.

 This helps your brain maintain efficient information flow and reduces cognitive load.

3️⃣ Practice Mindful Visual Focus 

Your peripheral vision can be sensitive to crowding. 

When doing focused work, position yourself where your main visual field is clear of distractions. 

This supports your brain’s natural information processing patterns and enhances cognitive efficiency

Question for you today 

What one change could you make to your visual environment today to support your brain health?

Wishing you clarity of mind and space, 

Dr Sui Wong

PS – Interesting fact: Japanese architecture and design have two beautiful concepts about empty space – “Ma” (間) celebrating the power of pause between elements, and their minimalist designs creating intentional empty spaces. Who knew this centuries-old wisdom would match exactly what our modern research shows about how our brains process visual information!

This is a nice article about the Japanese “space in between”: https://www.andrewgoodwin.us/post/ma-the-space-in-between

*reference: https://news.yale.edu/2024/10/22/visual-clutter-alters-information-flow-brain