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It is the time of year where some of us start to feel the urge to purge. The need to find the dark corners of our home and peel them open. It is also a season where we are craving change. After the winter months we feel ready to let go of the dark days and move towards the light. Change is everywhere. Blonde hair starts to emerge from the salon. Long hair is found in the recycling bin ready to be repurposed and fresh crops are going out the door. Why is this a tradition? Is there a way we can make this season less overwhelming?
Clutter can increase stress by distracting us and overwhelming our senses with extraneous stimuli – toppling piles and unsightly messes as well as associated smells and noises. Piles of papers can indicate that work is endless and that even when we finish what we are working on there is more to be done. If you think you are the only one with a few piles of junk around the house, think again. Most Americans believe that home organization and cleanliness are among their top five stressors. Women specifically have shown to have chronic levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, if they perceive their homes as cluttered.
Beyond negative emotional effects, a disorganized space is also associated with less physical activity. On the contrary, organization and order have been associated with choosing to eat more healthily, being more generous, and conventionality. With both the physical and psychological benefits to cleaning and decluttering, why doesn’t everyone do it?
Psychology Today
An efficient approach is minimalism. According to Wikipedia the concept of minimalism is to strip everything down to its essential quality and achieve simplicity. With this approach we are able to get a clear objective. When we can define the highest priority we can create a plan. This concept can be applied to all areas of life from wardrobe, home decor, relationships and more. What better season than to release the things and parts of life no longer serving you!
I can honestly say that despite having a simple life I still feel overwhelmed. My kids somehow collect ten millions things that are scattered around the house and I find myself busy without down time. Less things = less time moving them. Smaller house = less to clean. Less people in your inner circle = more time on growing healthy relationships. Less truly is more. Reducing your life can make space for greater things and help you breathe easier.
As far as my advice for your hair, sometimes a subtle change is all you need. Are you bored or does your current hair not work for your lifestyle? Keep it simple, but make a change that feels right. Jump in without second guessing. Hair will always grow out. Live a little.
After a good through purge and clean I feel lighter. Don’t you? So the next time you think about buying more items or striking up a new project, take time to consider what you already have/have going on. Maybe those things just need to be repurposed. I am a big believer in living a life of enjoyment, if it doesn’t nurture your happiness is it really worth your energy?
Try a minimalist approach 🙂
-Chantel
Chantel Funk + Co. 