Get Clarity Clear with Spring Cleaning

Spring cleaning sounds like a simple concept, an annual ritual during which, with the best of intentions, we clean and clear out the “old” to make space for the “new” that comes with the advent of spring. However, not many of us look forward to this ritual. Instead, we imagine ourselves spending hours scrubbing on our hands and knees, and sneezing from all the dust. At this time, we also think about throwing out many things cluttering our living space that we haven’t used for years but we still don’t want to let go. And that’s when “Spring Cleaning” becomes much, much more; it becomes a ritual that should be untaken regularly.

As part of my healing journey, I practice clearing my mind and body of clutter and debris – physical, mental and emotional. Keeping my living space clean and clear of clutter is an extension of my success in my daily practice for peace and harmony. For most of us, spring allows us the opportunity to open up the windows cleaning and clearing out the stagnant energy of a long, cold winter to begin anew. I find that I must constantly let go, releasing my attachments to things especially when I realize that they no longer serve me.

So as you begin your Spring Cleaning this year, make it your goal to purposefully and joyfully clean and clear out your home, clutter, dust and all. Take some time during this important ritual to observe yourself and ask questions. What objects are you attached to? What are you keeping that is cluttering not only your living quarters, but your inner life as well, your true self? Why is it so painful to donate that raggedy old doll that you received for your seventh birthday? What part of your past are you holding on to? Why is it so difficult to get rid of the outfit that your mother loves on you, even though you never liked it? Are you still very concerned with other people’s opinions of you? If you can begin to clean and clear the space around you, it may help you clear the space within you, the space in which you truly live.

5 Spring Cleaning Tips

        ·            Set a reasonable time period for Spring Cleaning. Often, it will take you more than a day or a weekend.

        ·            Commit to one room at a time. In the bedroom: dust, vacuum, change the curtains and the bed linens, and exchange your winter and spring wardrobes – then move to another room.

        ·            Observe when you resist letting go of something. Explore your attachment to the object in writing.

        ·            When in doubt, throw it out! If you haven’t used it in a year, it’s probably time to let it go.

        ·            Celebrate at the end of your Spring Cleaning. Congratulate yourself for the dedication it takes to care for your home and yourself in this important way. Play with your children, take a bath, go on a picnic, see a movie – whatever gives you joy!

By: Lauren Larsen