When you think of spring cleaning what is the first thing that comes to mind?
For me it’s not the chore of doing an annual house clean or the countless products on the store shelves that whiten, brighten, unclog and disinfect but instead a favored ritual that falls in line with the change of season.
After a dull and dreary winter, I find the warm weather and sunshine inspiring. It makes me want to get out, get active and make some positive changes.
Like the buds and flowers that bloom, spring brings with it a sense of renewal and rebirth. Everything is new – anything is possible.
Spring is the time of year when I want to switch things up from work projects to exercise routines.
While some people like to spring clean their homes, I like to spring clean my life.
While I do like to purge seasonal clothing as well as clean, dust, and disinfect any corners of our home that have been neglected over the winter, I also like to try new things from hobbies to recipes.
Spring is the ideal time to reassess your needs and priorities, to get rid of emotional baggage and clear you mental dust bunnies. It’s the perfect time to do something that inspires you, rejuvenates your soul and gets you ready for the new season ahead.
So this spring instead of focusing on the dirt or sweeping up those dust bunnies, focus on yourself and spring clean your body, mind and spirit.
Here are some ideas to get you started…
Take inventory of your life
Make improvements to as many aspects of your life as necessary – relationships, living environment, finances, personal health, professional development etc.
Make a date with the sunrise
Enjoy the solitude that only the early morning hours can offer. Pray and/or take the time to reflect on what you are grateful for.
Renew your commitment to the planet
Explore your earth ethics and recommit to recycling and reusing. Refrain from purchases (and actions) that are harmful to the environment.
Cut ties in unhealthy relationships
Let go of unhealthy relationships or learn to set better boundaries.
Let go of negative thoughts and worries
Accept what you can and can’t control.
Go with the flow
Loosen up, be spontaneous and let go of rigid and unrealistic expectations.
Get real
Be honest and forthright yet compassionate when communicating with others.
Let your inner beauty shine
Explore and appreciate your inner traits and uniqueness. Take pride in who you are.
Use positive affirmations
Improve your self-esteem by replacing negative thoughts with positive messages.
Challenge yourself
Set goals that challenge and inspire you to be all that you can.
Set priorities and focus your energy
Decide on what’s most important and give it your undivided attention.
Laugh often
Enjoy the many benefits of laughter. Find something to laugh about each day.
Please your palate
Select and prepare foods that make your heart happy, satisfy your soul and celebrate the act of eating.
Live in the moment
Enjoy the present and make the most of every day.
The key to spring cleaning your life is to nourish your spirit and cleanse your soul in a way that makes the most sense to you. You’ll find yourself not only in a better mood but often with a smile on your face.