Environments are powerful and can add a lot to the chaos, or success, in our lives.
When I see a pile of clothes to be put away, or dirty dishes in the sink, I can become distracted and don’t focus as well. I’m very much aware of how my environment impacts my energy. Sometimes, however, it’s quite subtle, and many people don’t even pause to notice how significant this correlation can be.
All things, even our material things, contain energy and can influence the experiences and events that come into our lives. Recently, I was helping a friend prepare for a move into a much smaller place. We had several conversations about creating an inviting space that makes you feel good and releasing what just isn’t working any more (we even took a trip to Ikea which is always a bonus!).
This got me thinking about my own environments.
Last month my intention was to simplify and organize. I dragged five large garbage bags and two boxes to Goodwill and that always feels good. I still have a long way to go, but it was a step in the right direction.
I’ve also been reading the book The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo. Organization has always been a part of my DNA and I’ve read volumes on the subject, so I was easily attracted by the title of this book. Most articles and books I’ve read in the past almost always involve some kind of basket, cubby, of container (which could even elicit another trip to Ikea!!). But Kondo takes the topic from a different perspective (I highly recommend checking out her book to delve deeper) centered around the idea of joy.
Instead of being intent to continue my purge and fill more garbage bags this month (well, I’m still doing that), I began taking a closer look at my surroundings. I started by taking a visual tour around my home (even snapped some photos, see below). You could do this at home, work or any place you spend a lot of time. As you consider the many scenes around you, ask yourself these important questions:
Does it bring you joy?
Does it create energy for you, or drain it?
I confess I’m not following Kondo’s method of tidying up, not yet at least. But I have started the process by embracing some of her philosophy. I’m coming from a perspective of choosing what I want to keep, versus what I want to get rid of. Determine what brings me great joy, like this pic of the comfy chair and ottoman in my office, a favorite spot for working, reading and mediating. And which total drain me, like in my basement (I will spare you a picture of that hot mess).
My intention this month is to focus and energize. Perhaps evaluating my space, along with a little tidying up, will help me with both of those intentions. According to Kondo, it definintely should, and that’s where the magic occurs. I am excited as I continue this process to see what else transpires in my life. Open up the space and amazing things happen. I invite you to try it as well and let me know what happens.
Here are some of the nooks and crannies in my home that make me smile.
