As the world changed almost over night, it has forced most of us to slow down, to be still and really reflect on what is important in life. This has most definitely been my experience. Here in Santa Teresa we switched drastically from one of the busiest high seasons yet, with a town buzzing full of visitors, to no visitors at all - all the businesses and restaurants closed, driving restrictions in place and the beaches off limits.
Whilst following the stay at home guidelines, for me it has been a good time to count my blessings and appreciate what I have. And to also get things done that I am normally too busy to do! Stopping the busyness I am allowed to be more present in many ways. I hope that it has been the same for you.
I have found that one of the ways that I can positively make use of this time, and at the same time improve the mental and physical well being of myself and my family, is to declutter and organize our environment!
I am expecting twins in July and have found myself in a nesting phase. It helps keep my mind clear, my body active, and my home organized as we anticipate the arrival of our new babies. Plus, it is a good time to separate useful things to donate to local families and charities during a time of need!
Here are some tips to help you start decluttering your home:
- Break down the organizing into small areas to make it manageable and less overwhelming. Start with a closet, a room, or even a drawer.
- Start a good will donations pile. (You can include clothes, sheets, towels, toys, etc. Anything in good shape that can be useful to someone else is welcome).
- Separate garbage and recyclables.
- Start in the kitchen. It is easy for things to pile up in the room where families spend most of their time. Start with your countertops! Then organize kitchen cabinets and the pantry. Yes, tackle that junk drawer too.
- Sort through piles of paper and old mail.
- Clear out open shelves. Unless its books, items on shelves should be spaced out to stand out.
- In the closet, anything you haven’t worn in 6 months or more can go. These items might be useful to someone else!
- Ask your kids to sort thought their rooms and toys as well. It is good to teach them to let go of old things and make room for the new.
- Add cute baskets to make great hidden hampers in bathrooms or toy bins throughout the house.
- In your home office space, minimize. Clear space, color code book shelves, and hide cables.
- Sort through the laundry room and organize old linens and cleaning supplies.
The key is taking it little by little, to not get overwhelmed or overly tired. Once you start to make progress you will find that organizing and decluttering reduces anxiety, it makes you feel energized, and boosts self-esteem. You might even get some good ideas for new projects and home improvements along the way. Plus, you might find some exciting old hidden treasures!
I hope everyone is staying safe! Sending well wishes to all from Santa Teresa, Costa Rica,
Jen
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