06 Apr Spring Cleaning

During our little winter hibernation, clutter seems to pile up: holiday decorations that never quite made it back into storage, blankets, books, toys, and all of the other things we like to have close at hand during those cozy, lazy Sundays. So of course, as soon as the air gets that fresh springtime smell, we feel the urge to purge all that winter residue. Why not take that motivation to tidy up and apply it to more than just stowing away your seasonal supplies?

Clean Your Home’s Energy
Cultures all around the world have been burning sacred herbs for most of human history. Turns out, the tradition isn’t purely symbolic; burning medicinal herbs actually kills airborne germs. So choose a traditional smudging herb like sage, lavender, or rosemary (bonus points for choosing one that’s sustainably sourced nearby where you live) to banish bad energy and bad bacteria.

Tidy Up Your Flow
Speaking of energy, this is a great time to check its flow in your home. If you’ve got an interest in Feng Shui that might mean adding some indoor plants or fountains, or addressing the chi flow in your entryway. Otherwise, turn a critical eye to how your furniture is arranged. Are you blocking walkways? Do you have all of your furniture up against the walls like middle-schoolers at a dance? Moving just a few key pieces can better define your spaces and direct the flow of everything from energy to conversation.

Scrub Your Phone
How many of those apps do you actually use? And do you really need that many pictures of your dog? Free up some storage space, and while you’re at it, turn off some of your notifications and free up some mental space as well. Finally, take a soft cloth and some rubbing alcohol and water to get rid of all those germs.

Clean Out Your Kitchen
If you’re like us, there are some Christmas cookies and Thanksgiving turkey still lingering in the back of the freezer, not to mention all of the half-used baking supplies languishing in the pantry. Empty out the fridge and pantry, wipe down the shelves, and only put back foods that you’ll actually eat. Take this opportunity to fill in the gaps left behind with some fresh produce and other healthier options, and keep that New Year’s Resolution for healthy eating going strong.

Clean Out Your Brain
Getting ride of physical clutter feels good, but it feels even better when you follow it with mental clutter. Whether you choose to journal, meditate, write a letter without sending it, or write things on a piece of paper before burning it, set aside time to release worries, resentments, and other thoughts that don’t serve your higher good.