Spring is upon us, and for most our annual spring cleaning is underway. We once again open windows, closet doors, dresser drawers, and storage bins, using the fresh air as motivation to take stock of all the stuff that has accumulated over the past year. We attempt to rid ourselves of the unwanted and unnecessary clutter by sifting through and sorting these into organized piles of what to keep, what to toss, and what to give away.
Many find it difficult to let go of things, even though those things have ceased to have any value. Believing that they might hold some futuristic purpose, we relegate them to the backs of dark closets, taking up space.
Unnecessary possessions equal unnecessary burdens, so disorganization and clutter leaves us feeling overwhelmed and weighed down. Purging our homes of the things that no longer serve us is an empowering step toward feeling renewed, energized, organized, and more in control of our lives.
The same holds true when we take the time to renew our hearts and minds. Opening up the windows of our souls and letting in that fresh spring air can clear away the dusty cobwebs that have dulled our thinking, while restoring clarity and giving us a brighter outlook.
Just as in the physical realm, when we determine what to toss, keep, and give away in our internal lives, we need to organize everything by what we need to release, what we need to embrace, and what we need to change. Purging our hearts and minds of past grudges, bitterness, and unresolved issues frees our souls, creating space for more positive experiences. Ridding ourselves of toxic relationships and negative self-talk, which only produces stress and robs us of sleep, makes room for peace, contentment, and a renewed desire to care for ourselves.
Dumping social commitments that are no longer enjoyable, and dusting off and disposing of past disappointments, helps us to face the future with renewed hope. We can now organize our time with reverence and wisdom in pursuit of what really matters. We can participate in more activities that advance our dreams and goals instead of depleting them.
By renewing and bringing order to our hearts, as well as our homes, we create the breathing space we need to enjoy a more satisfying and fulfilling life.
