CLEANING OUT THE CLUTTER
Why Engage It?
We are prone to accumulating a lot of “stuff” in our lives! This accumulation can be tangible, such as our belongings, or it can be intangible, such as the information we take in. While these things can positively contribute to our lives, they can also distract us from what is really going on in our heart or mind – keeping us from a life of simplicity.
It has been said that our home and actions reflect the state of our soul. Sometimes, that requires us to stop and take a moment to “declutter” or “de-accumulate” what is around us physically so that our mind has space to think clearly. This also means decluttering our mind from social media, Netflix, Google, etc., so that we can focus on what is really going on for us in the moment.
How to Practice It?
Take 20 minutes to stop, sit comfortably, breathe deeply, and allow your mind to remember a place where you felt “spaciousness” or “free to relax” without anything distracting you. Was it the beach, the mountains, a deck, a living room, an open field? Remember how it felt in that moment. No clutter, just space to Be. Now, open your eyes and look around you. Does your current space provide that same sense of relaxation? Or does it need to have a few items removed to create breathing room? Is there any tug at your heart to sort and give some things away? A tug to make a commitment not to buy anything unnecessary this week? A nudge to forego watching Netflix shows for a few days or take a break from social media in order to let your mind rest from constant information/stimulation? A desire to be free from so much screen time?
It’s amazing how our surroundings and choices truly do reflect what is going on internally. Pay attention to how you feel in your home, especially your thoughts and your emotions. Invite God into your physical and mental space, and see what happens! Journal your reflections.
Each journey begins with a step. Take just one step today toward this simpler way of living and Being!