by Lemuel Niere
Springtime inspires us to start fresh and declutter our lives. A clean space just makes us feel better. In fact, research in Psychology Today shows that for every hour of cleaning we do each week, we get back a 53% increase in happiness!
If cleaning the house has that much benefit, imagine what Spring cleaning your whole being can do. Beyond just our physical spaces, Spring can be a time to focus on our overall well-being. By taking steps to declutter our bodies, minds and spirits, we can embrace the rejuvenating energy of Spring and experience a greater sense of renewal and vitality.
One key aspect of whole-person Spring cleaning is nourishing our bodies with a wholesome diet. By incorporating more nutrient-dense whole foods and minimizing processed items, we can support our physical and spiritual well-being. Good health promoters tell us that a simple way to start is by beginning each day with a glass of warm lemon water, which can help detoxify the body and promote digestive health.
Engaging in regular, gentle exercise will help energize the body and awaken the spirit. Outdoor stretching exercises (or walking) that combine physical movement with spiritual intention are a great way to soak up some sunlight, reflect on our Creator and enjoy the vibrant environment that He provides.
Just as our physical spaces can become cluttered, so too can our minds. Good health practitioners tell us that mindfulness and prayer are powerful tools for clearing mental clutter and finding inner peace. One simple mindfulness practice is the “three-breath technique.” Take a moment to pause, close your eyes and focus on taking three deep, intentional breaths. With each inhale, imagine drawing in peace and clarity. With each exhale, release any stress and negativity.
Spring cleaning our spiritual lives involves nurturing our connection to something greater than ourselves. Engaging in prayer or spiritual practices that resonate with our faith can foster a deeper sense of purpose and meaning. Connecting with a faith-based community or volunteering our time in service to others can also nourish the spirit and provide a sense of belonging.
Moreover, the practice of forgiveness and letting go of past hurts can lighten our spiritual load, allowing us to move forward with peace and resilience. When it comes to whole-person Spring cleaning, it’s important to remember that small, manageable steps can lead to significant improvements in our overall well-being. Choose one small decluttering act to undertake today and notice the difference it makes. By selecting one area — body, mind or spirit — to focus on decluttering first, we can gradually achieve a greater sense of wholeness and vitality.
