I like to think of Spring Cleaning as a lifestyle vs a seasonal event, after all, Spring Cleaning isn’t just for your house. If when you hear Spring Cleaning your mind goes straight to scrubbing and washing, you may be missing an opportunity for all that Spring Cleaning could represent in your life.

We all know that Spring is a time for growth and rebirth but what if we looked at it metaphorically and thought of it more as a ‘spring-board’ into change and better habits? I like the idea of looking at it both ways. Similar to planting a garden, Spring is also a great time to till the soil of your life so to speak and evaluate what is and isn’t working. Spring lends favor to better times ahead with a few mental adjustments, we can take advantage of all that Spring can represent.

Creative ideas to help you make the most of Spring:

• Go through your social media accounts. Reflect on each account you follow and really ask yourself how that content makes you feel. If it doesn’t bring a smile to your face or add to your life positively, time to hit that unfollow button.
• Be conscious of the habits you are choosing and meditate on if they are serving you. If they aren’t, begin to make small changes to cut them out of your lifestyle and make room for better habits.
• Digital clutter is a thing. Put time aside to tackle your email inbox or desktop and delete/back up anything you don’t need immediate access to. You will feel so much lighter.
• Consider being cognitive of your internal dialogue. Try adding some positive mantras to your life to help you build self-esteem and confidence.
• Instead of focusing on cleaning, focus on de-cluttering. Our environment impacts our mood and less can often be more.
• Prioritize self-care and adopt the Spring Cleaning mentality to your relationships. Set aside some time each week to research healthy boundaries so you don’t over extend yourself. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup.
• Rearrange your living space to signify a fresh start and bring nature inside by adding more plants to your indoor space.
• Declutter your mind: consider starting a journal. Not only does it decrease stress but it can help clear your brain. (For more journaling ideas, click here)
• Revamp your nutrition this Spring – make a habit of adding in seasonal foods. To find what is in season, click here ( https://snaped.fns.usda.gov/seasonal-produce-guide )
• Protect your energy: your energy is your life-source. Don’t give it to just anyone. Avoid ‘energy vampires’ and those that make you feel drained being around them.

Spring Cleaning doesn’t have to be a seasonal thing, it can be part of a healthy lifestyle.