Spring Cleaning for Home and Mind - a Fresh Start

Spring creates regeneration, with fresh growth all around us and what joy that brings us - I have noticed in the last few weeks how a little blossom on the trees and displays of roadside daffodils has lifted my mood!

This seasonal shift provides the perfect backdrop for our own post-winter rejuvenation - not just in our physical spaces but in our ways of thinking. Just as we clear out cupboards and dust neglected corners (my telescopic feather duster has been very busy!), we can use this energy to reassess our lives and clear mental clutter that no longer serves us.

When we declutter our homes, we create space for what matters. Similarly, when we reassess our choices and priorities, we make room for growth and alignment with our true values.

Here's how to approach this dual spring cleaning:

First, set aside dedicated time for reflection. Just as you might block out a weekend for home cleaning, schedule quiet hours for internal review. Find a comfortable space free from distractions where you can think clearly about what's working in your life and what isn't.

Next, take inventory of your current commitments, relationships, and habits. Ask yourself, "Does this still reflect who I am and what I value?".

Be honest about which aspects of your life feel energising or depleting. My favourite analogy for this is "Is this a drain or a radiator?" ie when you think about this thing, can you feel the energy draining from you or does it give you a warm feeling?

Or as Marie Kondo would say, "Does it spark joy?".

It is a good idea to pay attention to where you feel resistance or resentment - these emotions often signal misalignment with your true needs.

Remember that clearing space - whether physical or mental - creates room for new possibilities. Sometimes we must release good things to make way for great things.. and that is exciting!

When making decisions about what to keep or release in your life, consider these questions:

• Does this relationship/commitment/habit bring me joy or growth?

• Does it align with my core values?

• Will this matter a year from now?

• Am I holding onto this out of habit or fear rather than genuine desire?

Talk to a friend who is a good listener, or get yourself a coach who understands the issue and can help you make a plan to move forward with intention and direction. Sometimes, just saying "the thing" out loud lifts the weight from your shoulders and helps you see things more clearly.

Unless an issue is causing acute discomfort, you have time to think things through.

And you may reveal some uncomfortable truths; please approach these discoveries with kindness rather than judgement!

Don't beat yourself up for making mistakes, but look at how you can change things so you have more chance of avoiding that mistake again.

The most challenging part of this process is implementation. Start small with achievable changes rather than overwhelming life overhauls. Perhaps begin by adjusting one habit that doesn't serve you or having one difficult but necessary conversation.

By making this renewal process a yearly tradiion alongside your physical spring cleaning, you will create a powerful ritual of realignment. Each year, you will find that your life reflects the true you and your values more than ever. And that is huge!