9 PRACTICAL TIPS FOR DECLUTTERING AFTER THE HOLIDAYS
1. Buy uniform (same size, color) boxes/bins for decoration storage – they’ll neatly stack and you’ll know what they store. Keep this number of boxes as your limit.
2. Store ornaments in shoeboxes, with tissue paper. Place the shoeboxes in a larger bin. And buy a special wreath box to keep wreaths protected.
3. Purchase a special gift wrap container. Limit the wrap you buy to what fits in it. Save space by unwrapping paper, and re-rolling it to fit inside the tube (it should fit more than one type). Cut a small piece and tape to the outside to identify. OR if you purchase only gift bags (a more eco-friendly choice), store them and new and reusable tissue paper in a long shallow bin, which should accommodate many different sizes.
4. Break gift boxes down so they store flat and take up less space. You can also store smaller boxes in larger ones.
5. Pack any extra supplies like cards, festive napkins, etc. with the rest of the holiday things.
6. Wrap lights around empty cardboard tubes to keep from getting tangled.
7. Throw old lights or tattered decorations. Keep only the decorations you love, that bring you joy. Donate the rest to a shelter or sell in a garage sale. (Less is more, and having only what is very special around you is good feng shui!)
8. Make taking the tree/other decorations down as much of an occasion as putting them up – get the family involved, listen to music, have a special treat.
9. Get one or more plastic document wallets with Velcro to keep toy and electronic instructions/warranties handy. Label the outside and either store with important papers or in an entertainment center.
Stay tuned for:
Organizing New Beginnings for the New Year
Monday, December 28, 2009
Monday, December 21, 2009
Clutter-Free Holidays
By Jessica Hoelzel
The holidays are a time of gathering. Whether you take a minimalistic point of view during this season, or an all-out consumption attitude, you will acquire some clutter this time of year. However, it is possible to have a lighter impact on the environment. When I say “environment” I am speaking of two environments, really. The more immediate environments is your home, your dwelling space. And the greater environment is that of this lovely green earth we inhabit. Either place deserves the gifts of care and protection that we have the power to bestow upon them.
Be conscious of the precious environment of the place we dwell and the greater world this season with these ways to simplify:
1. Don’t buy wrapping paper or disposable bows.Ultimately all that wrapping is going to go in the trash, then the landfill. It is not recyclable. It clutters up rooms and fills the trash. Plus, a significant amount of energy goes into producing the paper, and transporting it.
Gift bags are reusable and you can even get ones made with recycled paper. Or look to other alternatives like using paper grocery bags – you can cut them to wrap and stamp to decorate, or let the kids have at it with markers. Tie them up with natural or reusable ribbons. If you feel gift wrap is the most practical way to present your gifts, use recycled paper like those from www.greenpaperstudio.com.
For large items, keep them in the plastic bag they came in, tied with a bow at the top for presentation. You can reuse that bag to gather trash from packaging later.
Another alternative is to not wrap things at all. Hide them until right before you want to present them. And certain things like hostess gifts or general exchange items can simply be placed under the tree as is. If you order a lot of gifts online, keep them in the box they were shipped in. Use a reusable bow or stickers to cover the shipping labels. Break down those boxes later, to store easier and reuse next year.
2. Corral the cards.Gather all holiday greeting cards in one area. Place a large ceramic bowl on the counter or the dining room table to display them. Or if you prefer to see each one in its full splendor, hang together in one place; possibly on a magnetic board or bulletin board.
Another green solution to cut down on waste is to send an electronic greeting card this time of year. You could send it in a simple email with an image, or send a letter as an attachment. Or look online for an electronic greeting – some are even free! Check out www.bluemountain.com.
3. Use real dishes, silverware and glassware.
Please don’t hurt the environment outside by using non-biodegradable disposable serving ware! Imagine millions of people using millions of plastic utensils, plates and cups – and how that adds up to clutter up our world with trash that doesn’t break down.
Instead, make the environmentally responsible choice. You can create a beautiful and special environment inside by using your own dishes. Plus, let’s face it, it is more enjoyable to eat off of a real plate with real silverware. The food just tastes better and seems more sacred.
If you are having a large gathering and won’t have enough, consider borrowing from a friend or relative. Many dollar and discount store have dishes for an inexpensive price, including festive ones. Or look to an antique store to reuse something from the past. You could end up with a very fun and creative table by mixing and matching.
Doing dishes after a good meal doesn’t have to feel like a hassle – besides the fact that you’ll feel good about your earth-friendly choice, you can make happy memories when clearing up after the meal. Encourage a culture of pitching in at your gathering. Some of my favorite holiday memories aren’t the gifts I got or what we ate, but working together in the kitchen, telling stories and jokes.
Blessings for a Clutter-Free Environment!
Stay tuned for:
10 Tips for Decluttering After the Holidays
Organizing New Beginnings for the New Year
The holidays are a time of gathering. Whether you take a minimalistic point of view during this season, or an all-out consumption attitude, you will acquire some clutter this time of year. However, it is possible to have a lighter impact on the environment. When I say “environment” I am speaking of two environments, really. The more immediate environments is your home, your dwelling space. And the greater environment is that of this lovely green earth we inhabit. Either place deserves the gifts of care and protection that we have the power to bestow upon them.
Be conscious of the precious environment of the place we dwell and the greater world this season with these ways to simplify:
1. Don’t buy wrapping paper or disposable bows.Ultimately all that wrapping is going to go in the trash, then the landfill. It is not recyclable. It clutters up rooms and fills the trash. Plus, a significant amount of energy goes into producing the paper, and transporting it.
Gift bags are reusable and you can even get ones made with recycled paper. Or look to other alternatives like using paper grocery bags – you can cut them to wrap and stamp to decorate, or let the kids have at it with markers. Tie them up with natural or reusable ribbons. If you feel gift wrap is the most practical way to present your gifts, use recycled paper like those from www.greenpaperstudio.com.
For large items, keep them in the plastic bag they came in, tied with a bow at the top for presentation. You can reuse that bag to gather trash from packaging later.
Another alternative is to not wrap things at all. Hide them until right before you want to present them. And certain things like hostess gifts or general exchange items can simply be placed under the tree as is. If you order a lot of gifts online, keep them in the box they were shipped in. Use a reusable bow or stickers to cover the shipping labels. Break down those boxes later, to store easier and reuse next year.
2. Corral the cards.Gather all holiday greeting cards in one area. Place a large ceramic bowl on the counter or the dining room table to display them. Or if you prefer to see each one in its full splendor, hang together in one place; possibly on a magnetic board or bulletin board.
Another green solution to cut down on waste is to send an electronic greeting card this time of year. You could send it in a simple email with an image, or send a letter as an attachment. Or look online for an electronic greeting – some are even free! Check out www.bluemountain.com.
3. Use real dishes, silverware and glassware.
Please don’t hurt the environment outside by using non-biodegradable disposable serving ware! Imagine millions of people using millions of plastic utensils, plates and cups – and how that adds up to clutter up our world with trash that doesn’t break down.
Instead, make the environmentally responsible choice. You can create a beautiful and special environment inside by using your own dishes. Plus, let’s face it, it is more enjoyable to eat off of a real plate with real silverware. The food just tastes better and seems more sacred.
If you are having a large gathering and won’t have enough, consider borrowing from a friend or relative. Many dollar and discount store have dishes for an inexpensive price, including festive ones. Or look to an antique store to reuse something from the past. You could end up with a very fun and creative table by mixing and matching.
Doing dishes after a good meal doesn’t have to feel like a hassle – besides the fact that you’ll feel good about your earth-friendly choice, you can make happy memories when clearing up after the meal. Encourage a culture of pitching in at your gathering. Some of my favorite holiday memories aren’t the gifts I got or what we ate, but working together in the kitchen, telling stories and jokes.
Blessings for a Clutter-Free Environment!
Stay tuned for:
10 Tips for Decluttering After the Holidays
Organizing New Beginnings for the New Year
Monday, December 14, 2009
More Tips for Dealing With Clutter
By Jessica Hoelzel
Are you crazed and frazzled – not thinking it’s possible to stop for one minute and reflect upon your clutter situation and how to deal with it? Are there hardly even the briefest of moments free in your hectic day?
If so, here two methods to make a dent in the clutter chaos, without having to set aside too much time or attention. Keep in mind that these are only quick fixes, and if you are very serious about turning your clutter situation around, it will take reflection, time, effort and commitment. Click on my earlier post Dealing With Clutter http://day2dayfengshui.blogspot.com/2009_10_01_archive.html for a more comprehensive plan of action.
1. Nine things a day
I learned this method from my teacher, international Feng Shui expert Carole Hyder. http://www.carolehyder.com/. The number nine is considered a lucky and mathematically magical number in Chinese culture – so consider luck on your side when practicing this, and added fuel to achieve results and attract good fortune. And it’s so easy! You will probably far surpass the expectations you have at first.
Begin by setting your intention – also very important in Feng Shui. (Nothing in Feng Shui should be done willy-nilly or you will get willy-nilly results!) Your intention could be, for example, to clear off your desk so you don’t feel so overwhelmed, like you are never making progress, and instead feel in control and effective at your work.
After setting your intention, remove nine things from your desk (or wherever) per day. Other places this could work well are for the kitchen counter, the mud room, your bedroom closet or your car.
These nine things are going to go to one of three places:
The garbage/recycling
Put away elsewhere
To donate
Remember, nine is your magic number – you can incorporate the numeral in other ways for added success too, such as doing this for nine days, nine weeks, etc.
2. Set a bag or box out
This one is so easy it’s almost effortless! Simply set a large, sturdy bag (like a shopping bag) or a box out in an area. This bag/box will be your donate receptacle. Good places for this could be the kitchen or your bedroom closet. Every time you touch or see something that you do not use or love, just place it in the bag/box. In the kitchen it might be gadgets, cups or plastic containers. In your closet it might be things that are out of style, worn or don’t fit.
Things not suitable for donating should go in the garbage. If you find you have a considerable amount for the trash, you can place an additional receptacle in the area. If you aren’t able to make a decision right away about whether it is trash or donate, just put it in the donate box and decide later. The point is to make quick decisions and purge what you don’t want in your space.
This can also work in the office, for paper. But, of course you wouldn’t be donating any paper – who the heck would want that? (Well, maybe identity thieves.) Make sure to shred anything that has your confidential information on it, such as account numbers. With everything else, set out your recycling container in a prominent place and when you see or touch something that is outdated and/or no longer relevant to you, pitch it!
Rule: Once it is in the bag or box, it is not allowed back in your space! Don’t try to “save” things later. You’ll need to trust your gut on this one, and if you had any inclination at all about not liking or needing it, it’s probably right.
Remind yourself that you are doing this to gain freedom and peace, and you should have your area rejuvenated in little time at all!
Stay tuned for:
Clutter-Free Holidays
10 Tips for Decluttering After the Holidays
Organizing New Beginnings for the New Year
Are you crazed and frazzled – not thinking it’s possible to stop for one minute and reflect upon your clutter situation and how to deal with it? Are there hardly even the briefest of moments free in your hectic day?
If so, here two methods to make a dent in the clutter chaos, without having to set aside too much time or attention. Keep in mind that these are only quick fixes, and if you are very serious about turning your clutter situation around, it will take reflection, time, effort and commitment. Click on my earlier post Dealing With Clutter http://day2dayfengshui.blogspot.com/2009_10_01_archive.html for a more comprehensive plan of action.
1. Nine things a day
I learned this method from my teacher, international Feng Shui expert Carole Hyder. http://www.carolehyder.com/. The number nine is considered a lucky and mathematically magical number in Chinese culture – so consider luck on your side when practicing this, and added fuel to achieve results and attract good fortune. And it’s so easy! You will probably far surpass the expectations you have at first.
Begin by setting your intention – also very important in Feng Shui. (Nothing in Feng Shui should be done willy-nilly or you will get willy-nilly results!) Your intention could be, for example, to clear off your desk so you don’t feel so overwhelmed, like you are never making progress, and instead feel in control and effective at your work.
After setting your intention, remove nine things from your desk (or wherever) per day. Other places this could work well are for the kitchen counter, the mud room, your bedroom closet or your car.
These nine things are going to go to one of three places:
The garbage/recycling
Put away elsewhere
To donate
Remember, nine is your magic number – you can incorporate the numeral in other ways for added success too, such as doing this for nine days, nine weeks, etc.
2. Set a bag or box out
This one is so easy it’s almost effortless! Simply set a large, sturdy bag (like a shopping bag) or a box out in an area. This bag/box will be your donate receptacle. Good places for this could be the kitchen or your bedroom closet. Every time you touch or see something that you do not use or love, just place it in the bag/box. In the kitchen it might be gadgets, cups or plastic containers. In your closet it might be things that are out of style, worn or don’t fit.
Things not suitable for donating should go in the garbage. If you find you have a considerable amount for the trash, you can place an additional receptacle in the area. If you aren’t able to make a decision right away about whether it is trash or donate, just put it in the donate box and decide later. The point is to make quick decisions and purge what you don’t want in your space.
This can also work in the office, for paper. But, of course you wouldn’t be donating any paper – who the heck would want that? (Well, maybe identity thieves.) Make sure to shred anything that has your confidential information on it, such as account numbers. With everything else, set out your recycling container in a prominent place and when you see or touch something that is outdated and/or no longer relevant to you, pitch it!
Rule: Once it is in the bag or box, it is not allowed back in your space! Don’t try to “save” things later. You’ll need to trust your gut on this one, and if you had any inclination at all about not liking or needing it, it’s probably right.
Remind yourself that you are doing this to gain freedom and peace, and you should have your area rejuvenated in little time at all!
Stay tuned for:
Clutter-Free Holidays
10 Tips for Decluttering After the Holidays
Organizing New Beginnings for the New Year
Friday, November 6, 2009
Your Place of Peace
By Jessica Hoelzel
Clear bedroom clutter and create a personal sanctuary
Would you benefit from a better night’s sleep? Do you need a place in your home to de-stress after a challenging day? With so much stimulation, disturbing information and demands for our attention coming at us in this world, we all need a place to retreat and restore our energy
Your bedroom can be this place. It is the place to renew our minds and bodies. This is where we sleep, heal and begin our days. Therefore, it is possibly the most important place in the home to keep clutter-free. When we set up our bedrooms so that they are peaceful, we have a greater chance of maintaining serenity.
Follow the guidelines below to ensure that your bedroom provides you with calm and rejuvenates your spirit.
Remove Sleep Disrupters:
Electronics – TVs, radios, ipods, computers, etc. cause electromagnetic stress and can weaken the immune system
Paperwork, bills, books, magazines and misc clutter have various types of energy associated with them; it can be hard to tune them out and rest peacefully
Lively or harsh artwork does not belong in the bedroom; it is not conducive to feelings of tranquility, but rather may have wild, upbeat, or negative qualities
Bright colors and active patterns make you alert and can cause agitation
Simplify & Beautify:
Choose a flesh-tone or pastel color for the walls – the softest, most soothing tones are restful and can lull us into sleep
Accessorize with soft colors and subdued patterns, think romantic and gentle
Add inviting touches like a cozy comforter or relaxing chair to call you into the space
Bring in fresh flowers for good, healthy chi and the whimsy that comes with gazing at a thing of beauty
Stay tuned for:More tips on Dealing with Clutter
Top 5 Things to do to Reduce Clutter
Clear bedroom clutter and create a personal sanctuary
Would you benefit from a better night’s sleep? Do you need a place in your home to de-stress after a challenging day? With so much stimulation, disturbing information and demands for our attention coming at us in this world, we all need a place to retreat and restore our energy
Your bedroom can be this place. It is the place to renew our minds and bodies. This is where we sleep, heal and begin our days. Therefore, it is possibly the most important place in the home to keep clutter-free. When we set up our bedrooms so that they are peaceful, we have a greater chance of maintaining serenity.
Follow the guidelines below to ensure that your bedroom provides you with calm and rejuvenates your spirit.
Remove Sleep Disrupters:
Electronics – TVs, radios, ipods, computers, etc. cause electromagnetic stress and can weaken the immune system
Paperwork, bills, books, magazines and misc clutter have various types of energy associated with them; it can be hard to tune them out and rest peacefully
Lively or harsh artwork does not belong in the bedroom; it is not conducive to feelings of tranquility, but rather may have wild, upbeat, or negative qualities
Bright colors and active patterns make you alert and can cause agitation
Simplify & Beautify:
Choose a flesh-tone or pastel color for the walls – the softest, most soothing tones are restful and can lull us into sleep
Accessorize with soft colors and subdued patterns, think romantic and gentle
Add inviting touches like a cozy comforter or relaxing chair to call you into the space
Bring in fresh flowers for good, healthy chi and the whimsy that comes with gazing at a thing of beauty
Stay tuned for:More tips on Dealing with Clutter
Top 5 Things to do to Reduce Clutter
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Dealing With Clutter
By Jessica Hoelzel
When faced with the task of dealing with clutter, oftentimes people either:
1) Deny that clutter exists
“I don’t have that much stuff, really.”
“Oh, I know what’s in there…I think.”
“I need all this stuff.”
2) Conveniently “forget” about it, or push it out of awareness
“Clutter, what clutter?”
“I don’t see anything out of the ordinary.”
“Oh, is that where that stuff went? I forgot I had it.”
3) Put off dealing with clutter until a “better” time
“I’m going to organize that when I’m off work this spring.”
“As soon as I get caught up on housework, I’ll get to it.”
“One of these nights after I get the kids to bed, I’m going to tackle that.”
4) Do not know how to deal with it, and are paralyzed by it
“I have no idea where to start.”
“There is just so much to go through.”
“I can’t do this on my own.”
Do any of these comments sound familiar to you? When you embark on a clutter-clearing endeavor, the first step is realization – realizing what you are actually doing, compared to what you want to be doing. Knowing that, and wanting to change something is the start.
Break out of old patterns and begin anew!
Here are some sure-fire ways to break out of these clutter patterns, take action, and regain some control over clutter.
HINTS:
Start with one room at a time. Go through the steps below for each room, then start over with the steps again and go through them all for the next room.
If you want BIG results, and are feeling “gung-ho”, choose the most cluttered area first.
If you are unsure and nervous, begin with an area that’s not-so-bad first to ease into it.
Keep an electronic or paper journal to keep all you reflections, assessments and plans in one place – and don’t bury it under a pile of clutter!
Do some reflection
After reading the styles of dealing with clutter described above, think about what your tendencies are in a particular area:
Is your style similar to one or more of the categories described?
Do you want to deal with clutter in a different way? How so?
What is your payoff? What is your compelling reason for wanting to change?
How will your life – your home, family, work, etc, you be different if you deal with your clutter in a different way?
Do some assessment
To get clear on what specifically in your environment may be affecting you in negative way, unconsciously or consciously, step into that area and ask yourself:
How do I feel when I am in here?
What do I see around me?
What is bugging me or making me uncomfortable?
What do I want to do – what is my vision for the space?
What support do I need to make it happen?
How much time will I need? (HINT: Then double your estimate.)
Design your reward
Design one big reward, or small rewards along the way as you make progress. These will give you added incentive, and are a nice way to nurture yourself. What appeals to you? Reward yourself with a night out, a good book, dessert, a new electronic or new pair of shoes, for example.
Do some planning and set up your time
Get your calendar out. Find a few three-hour chunks of time. Make an appointment for yourself and your clutter. Remember, this is for you – so adjust your perception around it to be that of commitment. And you are going to honor your commitment to yourself. If you have trouble sticking with the dates you’ve scheduled, go back to your reflection and assessment notes for motivation. If necessary, make your reward bigger or more enticing.
Three-hour chunks of time work best to make a lot of progress and not get burnt out. If you feel inspired to go beyond that – by all means do so – your momentum is likely to build once you see changes being made, so channel that drive. Starting is the hardest part, but begun is half done!
Stay tuned for:
More...Dealing with Clutter
Top 5 Things to do to Reduce Clutter
When faced with the task of dealing with clutter, oftentimes people either:
1) Deny that clutter exists
“I don’t have that much stuff, really.”
“Oh, I know what’s in there…I think.”
“I need all this stuff.”
2) Conveniently “forget” about it, or push it out of awareness
“Clutter, what clutter?”
“I don’t see anything out of the ordinary.”
“Oh, is that where that stuff went? I forgot I had it.”
3) Put off dealing with clutter until a “better” time
“I’m going to organize that when I’m off work this spring.”
“As soon as I get caught up on housework, I’ll get to it.”
“One of these nights after I get the kids to bed, I’m going to tackle that.”
4) Do not know how to deal with it, and are paralyzed by it
“I have no idea where to start.”
“There is just so much to go through.”
“I can’t do this on my own.”
Do any of these comments sound familiar to you? When you embark on a clutter-clearing endeavor, the first step is realization – realizing what you are actually doing, compared to what you want to be doing. Knowing that, and wanting to change something is the start.
Break out of old patterns and begin anew!
Here are some sure-fire ways to break out of these clutter patterns, take action, and regain some control over clutter.
HINTS:
Start with one room at a time. Go through the steps below for each room, then start over with the steps again and go through them all for the next room.
If you want BIG results, and are feeling “gung-ho”, choose the most cluttered area first.
If you are unsure and nervous, begin with an area that’s not-so-bad first to ease into it.
Keep an electronic or paper journal to keep all you reflections, assessments and plans in one place – and don’t bury it under a pile of clutter!
Do some reflection
After reading the styles of dealing with clutter described above, think about what your tendencies are in a particular area:
Is your style similar to one or more of the categories described?
Do you want to deal with clutter in a different way? How so?
What is your payoff? What is your compelling reason for wanting to change?
How will your life – your home, family, work, etc, you be different if you deal with your clutter in a different way?
Do some assessment
To get clear on what specifically in your environment may be affecting you in negative way, unconsciously or consciously, step into that area and ask yourself:
How do I feel when I am in here?
What do I see around me?
What is bugging me or making me uncomfortable?
What do I want to do – what is my vision for the space?
What support do I need to make it happen?
How much time will I need? (HINT: Then double your estimate.)
Design your reward
Design one big reward, or small rewards along the way as you make progress. These will give you added incentive, and are a nice way to nurture yourself. What appeals to you? Reward yourself with a night out, a good book, dessert, a new electronic or new pair of shoes, for example.
Do some planning and set up your time
Get your calendar out. Find a few three-hour chunks of time. Make an appointment for yourself and your clutter. Remember, this is for you – so adjust your perception around it to be that of commitment. And you are going to honor your commitment to yourself. If you have trouble sticking with the dates you’ve scheduled, go back to your reflection and assessment notes for motivation. If necessary, make your reward bigger or more enticing.
Three-hour chunks of time work best to make a lot of progress and not get burnt out. If you feel inspired to go beyond that – by all means do so – your momentum is likely to build once you see changes being made, so channel that drive. Starting is the hardest part, but begun is half done!
Stay tuned for:
More...Dealing with Clutter
Top 5 Things to do to Reduce Clutter
Friday, October 23, 2009
Part II: How does clutter impact you?
By Jessica Hoelzel
“The use of space, and the degree of cleanliness or clutter all impact and collectively determine your home’s energy flow. And this flow (or lack of flow) affects you continually, conditions your experience in your home and workplace, and significantly influences your future for good or for ill.”
David Daniel Kennedy, Feng Shui for Dummies
More ways clutter impacts you…
4. Clutter drains your energy
Clutter can drain you because it is stagnant energy. If you have things sitting around in boxes or shoved in corners, closets, drawers or storage areas, untouched and unattended to, their energy has in essence been abandoned. They are left to sit and fester, like water in a gutter.
Since all your things – outdated and unnecessary paper records, articles of old clothing, or broken electronics, for example – have ties to your energy, if they are not being used they serve no purpose. Their old, abandoned, stagnant energy can pull you down with it. You might feel tired, unmotivated, hopeless or empty.
Another way clutter can drain your energy is when it collects on surfaces, unattended to. The main culprit: PAPER. Do you have piles of papers stacked up, strewn about or covering your office or kitchen counters?
If you answer yes, and also say you are quite sure you don’t know exactly what is there, then your paper clutter could be draining your energy as well. Every piece of paper you have is demanding something from you. It is saying, “Pay me!” “Call me!” “Reserve me!” “Plan me!” “File me!” or “Recycle me!”
So, when you have a lot of papers, all crying for your attention, that is a big pull on your energy. It can make you tired just imagining it. Now, how does it feel to look at that clutter every day, passing it several times a day? How about when you try to focus and get work done or cook a meal amongst it?
When you multiply these factors, the drain on your energy becomes substantial. The absolute worst place for paper clutter to be is in your bedroom. If you have a desk in your bedroom that accumulates paper, beware. It can affect your sleep, your mood and overall feelings of well-being.
Another type of clutter that can occupy surfaces is “the unnamable”. It doesn’t have a clear-cut category that it falls into, because it is many things from many categories. So, random stuff, this ‘n’ that, junk, crap. It is enough to make you exhausted just thinking about how long it will take to put back (if it has a home) or also tiring to contemplate where it’s home should be in the first place.
I’m talking about stale pieces of candy from Valentines Day (maybe somebody will eat them), the popsicle-stick sculpture your kid brought home from school three years ago (my kid will hate me if I move it), the electrical cord thingy (I have no idea what this goes to), that cute photo someone gave you (that’s now curled up, smudged and spattered on), different odds ‘n’ ends of a project (or two) you started (I will get to that, it could be in my next life…but I will), a book of your neighbor’s (it’s sitting there so I remember to give it back)…all of this, plus, of course, change, gum wrappers, paper clips – WHATEVER!
This stuff can drain your energy much like the paper can. It needs your attention. You pass by or you try to function around it, all the while trying to convince yourself it’s not bothering you, but it probably is. It’s subtly pulling you down with its decaying energy. Yes, it’s true, anything that sits there long enough will start to decay.
5. Clutter makes you feel stuck
Besides lovely thoughts of decay, what clutter is also doing is making you feel stuck. It’s simple: it is sitting there, in your space, not moving. And your space reflects your life. Your home and everything you have in it is an extension of you.
If you have a lot of things that haven’t been dealt with, and are piling up – stagnating – they can make you feel like you’re also stagnating. You might find yourself stuck in the past or like you can’t move forward. Or like you’re repeating the same patterns over and over. What is happening here is that the stuff – your clutter – is weighing you down and keeping you there.
Clutter often has a heaviness that’s unnamable, because it is low energy. As it is draining you, like I described above, it pulls you down and keeps you there. No wonder you can’t get ahead. The energy of the old, abandoned things are keeping you right there with them. How could they not? They are in your space. Their energy field is mixing and melding with yours.
Life may not present you with new opportunities because the clutter is taking up too much space. It is like a cement dam, blocking up the open space that represents creativity and possibilities.
Stay tuned for:
Dealing With Clutter
Top 5 Things to do to Reduce Clutter
“The use of space, and the degree of cleanliness or clutter all impact and collectively determine your home’s energy flow. And this flow (or lack of flow) affects you continually, conditions your experience in your home and workplace, and significantly influences your future for good or for ill.”
David Daniel Kennedy, Feng Shui for Dummies
More ways clutter impacts you…
4. Clutter drains your energy
Clutter can drain you because it is stagnant energy. If you have things sitting around in boxes or shoved in corners, closets, drawers or storage areas, untouched and unattended to, their energy has in essence been abandoned. They are left to sit and fester, like water in a gutter.
Since all your things – outdated and unnecessary paper records, articles of old clothing, or broken electronics, for example – have ties to your energy, if they are not being used they serve no purpose. Their old, abandoned, stagnant energy can pull you down with it. You might feel tired, unmotivated, hopeless or empty.
Another way clutter can drain your energy is when it collects on surfaces, unattended to. The main culprit: PAPER. Do you have piles of papers stacked up, strewn about or covering your office or kitchen counters?
If you answer yes, and also say you are quite sure you don’t know exactly what is there, then your paper clutter could be draining your energy as well. Every piece of paper you have is demanding something from you. It is saying, “Pay me!” “Call me!” “Reserve me!” “Plan me!” “File me!” or “Recycle me!”
So, when you have a lot of papers, all crying for your attention, that is a big pull on your energy. It can make you tired just imagining it. Now, how does it feel to look at that clutter every day, passing it several times a day? How about when you try to focus and get work done or cook a meal amongst it?
When you multiply these factors, the drain on your energy becomes substantial. The absolute worst place for paper clutter to be is in your bedroom. If you have a desk in your bedroom that accumulates paper, beware. It can affect your sleep, your mood and overall feelings of well-being.
Another type of clutter that can occupy surfaces is “the unnamable”. It doesn’t have a clear-cut category that it falls into, because it is many things from many categories. So, random stuff, this ‘n’ that, junk, crap. It is enough to make you exhausted just thinking about how long it will take to put back (if it has a home) or also tiring to contemplate where it’s home should be in the first place.
I’m talking about stale pieces of candy from Valentines Day (maybe somebody will eat them), the popsicle-stick sculpture your kid brought home from school three years ago (my kid will hate me if I move it), the electrical cord thingy (I have no idea what this goes to), that cute photo someone gave you (that’s now curled up, smudged and spattered on), different odds ‘n’ ends of a project (or two) you started (I will get to that, it could be in my next life…but I will), a book of your neighbor’s (it’s sitting there so I remember to give it back)…all of this, plus, of course, change, gum wrappers, paper clips – WHATEVER!
This stuff can drain your energy much like the paper can. It needs your attention. You pass by or you try to function around it, all the while trying to convince yourself it’s not bothering you, but it probably is. It’s subtly pulling you down with its decaying energy. Yes, it’s true, anything that sits there long enough will start to decay.
5. Clutter makes you feel stuck
Besides lovely thoughts of decay, what clutter is also doing is making you feel stuck. It’s simple: it is sitting there, in your space, not moving. And your space reflects your life. Your home and everything you have in it is an extension of you.
If you have a lot of things that haven’t been dealt with, and are piling up – stagnating – they can make you feel like you’re also stagnating. You might find yourself stuck in the past or like you can’t move forward. Or like you’re repeating the same patterns over and over. What is happening here is that the stuff – your clutter – is weighing you down and keeping you there.
Clutter often has a heaviness that’s unnamable, because it is low energy. As it is draining you, like I described above, it pulls you down and keeps you there. No wonder you can’t get ahead. The energy of the old, abandoned things are keeping you right there with them. How could they not? They are in your space. Their energy field is mixing and melding with yours.
Life may not present you with new opportunities because the clutter is taking up too much space. It is like a cement dam, blocking up the open space that represents creativity and possibilities.
Stay tuned for:
Dealing With Clutter
Top 5 Things to do to Reduce Clutter
Monday, October 12, 2009
Part I: How does clutter impact you?
By Jessica Hoelzel
Having physical and energetic clutter in your space can impact you in a number of ways. Its effects can be unconscious - the clutter subtly affects your energy and life circumstances without you being consciously aware of what is happening, and without pinpointing the source of the unbalance or negative circumstances. Or, the clutter can be affecting you in a very apparent way – when you see it, you are conscious of the fact that it is there, and it nags at you, making you feel upset. Whether you are conscious of clutter or not, you are attached to everything you have with an invisible line of energy. It is an extension of you.
1. Clutter creates unnecessary stressClutter can make you late, miss appointments, get behind, lose focus and lose things. It can cost you money, having to pay late charges or pay to replace things you’ve lost, which is stress on your wallet. These occurrences can in turn frustrate you, make you angry, or flaw your reputation. Clutter out-of-hand can cause you to lose your job, damage or ruin your relationships. Delaying decision-making about clutter and taking steps to alleviate it can actually create more work for you, causing you to be increasingly burdened by responsibility.
2. Clutter creates more housework
When you have to move and shift things around to clean, it takes more time and effort to get the job done. And, when things are in the way, for example, in a kitchen or entry/mudroom area, they can get dirty themselves and need cleaning. Knick-knacks, picture frames and collectibles collect a lot of dust, as does extra furniture. These things become obstacles to what should be a simple task. You may put off housecleaning because it seems too daunting of a task, dealing with pockets of clutter here and there, but postponing it makes the job even more overwhelming and verging on unsanitary.
3. Clutter embarrasses you and makes you feel uncomfortable
Clutter can deter you from inviting friends and family into your space, or when they do visit, you might feel embarrassed because so many things have accumulated, they are in disorder, or when there is no place to sit comfortably. You may feel uncomfortable yourself when you are in your space, amongst the clutter. When you look around your space and see piles of things to put away, sort or do, it is difficult to relax and be at peace. Feelings of inadequacy, ineffectiveness and helplessness may abound.
“There is no place you can put your clutter where it will not affect you. Even if you take it out of the house and stash it…it is still there and still having an effect on your life. The one and only thing you can do with clutter is take responsibility for it and clear it.”
- Karen Kingston, Creating Sacred Space With Feng Shui
Stay tuned for more to come:
Part II: How does clutter impact you? More ways…
Dealing With Clutter
Top 5 Things to do to Reduce Clutter
Having physical and energetic clutter in your space can impact you in a number of ways. Its effects can be unconscious - the clutter subtly affects your energy and life circumstances without you being consciously aware of what is happening, and without pinpointing the source of the unbalance or negative circumstances. Or, the clutter can be affecting you in a very apparent way – when you see it, you are conscious of the fact that it is there, and it nags at you, making you feel upset. Whether you are conscious of clutter or not, you are attached to everything you have with an invisible line of energy. It is an extension of you.
1. Clutter creates unnecessary stressClutter can make you late, miss appointments, get behind, lose focus and lose things. It can cost you money, having to pay late charges or pay to replace things you’ve lost, which is stress on your wallet. These occurrences can in turn frustrate you, make you angry, or flaw your reputation. Clutter out-of-hand can cause you to lose your job, damage or ruin your relationships. Delaying decision-making about clutter and taking steps to alleviate it can actually create more work for you, causing you to be increasingly burdened by responsibility.
2. Clutter creates more housework
When you have to move and shift things around to clean, it takes more time and effort to get the job done. And, when things are in the way, for example, in a kitchen or entry/mudroom area, they can get dirty themselves and need cleaning. Knick-knacks, picture frames and collectibles collect a lot of dust, as does extra furniture. These things become obstacles to what should be a simple task. You may put off housecleaning because it seems too daunting of a task, dealing with pockets of clutter here and there, but postponing it makes the job even more overwhelming and verging on unsanitary.
3. Clutter embarrasses you and makes you feel uncomfortable
Clutter can deter you from inviting friends and family into your space, or when they do visit, you might feel embarrassed because so many things have accumulated, they are in disorder, or when there is no place to sit comfortably. You may feel uncomfortable yourself when you are in your space, amongst the clutter. When you look around your space and see piles of things to put away, sort or do, it is difficult to relax and be at peace. Feelings of inadequacy, ineffectiveness and helplessness may abound.
“There is no place you can put your clutter where it will not affect you. Even if you take it out of the house and stash it…it is still there and still having an effect on your life. The one and only thing you can do with clutter is take responsibility for it and clear it.”
- Karen Kingston, Creating Sacred Space With Feng Shui
Stay tuned for more to come:
Part II: How does clutter impact you? More ways…
Dealing With Clutter
Top 5 Things to do to Reduce Clutter
Monday, September 14, 2009
What is Clutter?
By Jessica Hoelzel
There are two kinds of clutter – one you can see and another that you can’t. The first kind of clutter, that you can see, is best described as physical clutter. It is very apparent: papers, folders/binders, books, magazines, cds, jewelry, shoes, clothes, bags, knick-knacks, food boxes and containers, furniture, equipment, odds and ends, etc - STUFF. You can physically see it in your environment. These things by themselves are not necessarily clutter, but when taken together, mixed up, stacked up, piled up, stashed, filling up, blocking areas and covering surfaces – they are considered clutter. They are also considered clutter if you do not love or even like them, you don’t need them, don’t use them, they bother you, or you have other negative associations with them.
The second kind of clutter, the kind you cannot see, is better described as energetic clutter. Although the first kind of clutter that we talked about also has an energy to it (could be positive or negative – we’ll get to more about that later), the second is purely energetic, with no physical form that we can see. Some people are able to feel it, though, to sense that it exists. It could be energetic remains of arguments, yelling, violence, sickness, financial stress, or possibly the other end of the spectrum, happiness, laughter, celebration and excitement. The energy of these occurrences and emotions can gather and stagnate just like the physical clutter described above.
Both kinds of clutter can affect people that dwell in the space, unconsciously. It can affect them without them even knowing it.
Stay tuned for more to come:How does clutter impact you?
Top 5 Things to do to Reduce Clutter
Ways Physical Clutter Comes Into Our Spaces & Our Lives:We buy it
We inherit it
We find it
We pick it up
We get it as a gift
We get it in the mail
We download it
Plus, speaking of what clutter is and how it manifests in our spaces…
Being intentional about buying things
Most of us love a good bargain. Finding deals can be a wonderful way to live a frugal lifestyle. Where we can get into trouble, however, is buying just because it’s a deal.
Do I need this? Hmmm…no. Is there someone I know who could use this? Maybe. I’ll get it – it’s such a great deal! I can’t pass it up.
Does this commentary sound familiar to you? Do you buy on impulse, or shop as a hobby - a challenge to find bargain prices? If you do, and your home is cluttered as a result, keep in mind these questions:
Do I love it? Will I love it tomorrow, next week, in 6 months or a year?
What do I intend to do with it? Where will I put/store it?
Can I afford it? Is it a good investment?
Taking the time to stop and think about what your intentions are before you buy can bring you clarity on what you really want in your life. Don’t waste your energy on things that you don’t love, need or have the space for.
There are two kinds of clutter – one you can see and another that you can’t. The first kind of clutter, that you can see, is best described as physical clutter. It is very apparent: papers, folders/binders, books, magazines, cds, jewelry, shoes, clothes, bags, knick-knacks, food boxes and containers, furniture, equipment, odds and ends, etc - STUFF. You can physically see it in your environment. These things by themselves are not necessarily clutter, but when taken together, mixed up, stacked up, piled up, stashed, filling up, blocking areas and covering surfaces – they are considered clutter. They are also considered clutter if you do not love or even like them, you don’t need them, don’t use them, they bother you, or you have other negative associations with them.
The second kind of clutter, the kind you cannot see, is better described as energetic clutter. Although the first kind of clutter that we talked about also has an energy to it (could be positive or negative – we’ll get to more about that later), the second is purely energetic, with no physical form that we can see. Some people are able to feel it, though, to sense that it exists. It could be energetic remains of arguments, yelling, violence, sickness, financial stress, or possibly the other end of the spectrum, happiness, laughter, celebration and excitement. The energy of these occurrences and emotions can gather and stagnate just like the physical clutter described above.
Both kinds of clutter can affect people that dwell in the space, unconsciously. It can affect them without them even knowing it.
Stay tuned for more to come:How does clutter impact you?
Top 5 Things to do to Reduce Clutter
Ways Physical Clutter Comes Into Our Spaces & Our Lives:We buy it
We inherit it
We find it
We pick it up
We get it as a gift
We get it in the mail
We download it
Plus, speaking of what clutter is and how it manifests in our spaces…
Being intentional about buying things
Most of us love a good bargain. Finding deals can be a wonderful way to live a frugal lifestyle. Where we can get into trouble, however, is buying just because it’s a deal.
Do I need this? Hmmm…no. Is there someone I know who could use this? Maybe. I’ll get it – it’s such a great deal! I can’t pass it up.
Does this commentary sound familiar to you? Do you buy on impulse, or shop as a hobby - a challenge to find bargain prices? If you do, and your home is cluttered as a result, keep in mind these questions:
Do I love it? Will I love it tomorrow, next week, in 6 months or a year?
What do I intend to do with it? Where will I put/store it?
Can I afford it? Is it a good investment?
Taking the time to stop and think about what your intentions are before you buy can bring you clarity on what you really want in your life. Don’t waste your energy on things that you don’t love, need or have the space for.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Introducing Day to Day Feng Shui
By Jessica Hoelzel
Introducing “Day to Day Feng Shui”, a blog written by me, Jessica Hoelzel, the owner of Rejuvenate Space. I am a certified feng shui consultant and professional organizer. I believe that managing things and enhancing our spaces should not be an afterthought, or something that continuously gets postponed, but viewed as a very important, day to day effort. It should be a high priority, because our space reflects our lives. And now, more than ever, we need grounded, peaceful places to renew our minds and bodies, so we can rise high and above the occurrences in life that challenge to keep us down or drain our precious energy.
My mission as a professional is to help people rejuvenate their space by decluttering, organizing and applying feng shui principles so that their space reflects who they truly are, and nurtures and supports them in an uplifting and comforting way. The vision I hold for my clients is that they live simply and intentionally, unburdened by clutter, and love and enjoy their spaces!
Stay tuned for more blogs to come…
What is clutter?
How does clutter impact you?
Top 5 Things to do to Reduce Clutter
And more!
Live well and happily,
Jessica
Introducing “Day to Day Feng Shui”, a blog written by me, Jessica Hoelzel, the owner of Rejuvenate Space. I am a certified feng shui consultant and professional organizer. I believe that managing things and enhancing our spaces should not be an afterthought, or something that continuously gets postponed, but viewed as a very important, day to day effort. It should be a high priority, because our space reflects our lives. And now, more than ever, we need grounded, peaceful places to renew our minds and bodies, so we can rise high and above the occurrences in life that challenge to keep us down or drain our precious energy.
My mission as a professional is to help people rejuvenate their space by decluttering, organizing and applying feng shui principles so that their space reflects who they truly are, and nurtures and supports them in an uplifting and comforting way. The vision I hold for my clients is that they live simply and intentionally, unburdened by clutter, and love and enjoy their spaces!
Stay tuned for more blogs to come…
What is clutter?
How does clutter impact you?
Top 5 Things to do to Reduce Clutter
And more!
Live well and happily,
Jessica
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
