Spring cleaning your life

There’s something special about the warmth of springtime, don’t you think? It’s not that the sun has been absent during winter; rather, spring stirs up a renewed zeal for life and propels us into action to revive and reinvigorate our environment, even in the midst of a pandemic.

So, that “spring cleaning spirit” is in the air. It’s not a new concept by any means, but perhaps you’ve not seriously considered spring cleaning your entire life. I’m here to encourage you to use this season as a springboard for reevaluating the old and ushering in the new. Just the thought of it feels so natural and satisfying!

If you’re wondering what to do and where to start in order to spring clean your life, here are some suggestions.

Clean and clear

I know this is the tip you expect the most at this time of year, but decluttering your living space and giving it a good deep clean can change the entire feel of your home. Renewing your sacred space can rejuvenate you in many ways, stirring up a lighter, happier feeling as the sunshine rolls in with spring. So tuck away all those winter clothes, give your living space a refresh and start spring on a clean and clear footing.

Finesse your fitness

Have you been stuck in the same old fitness routine all winter long? It can get monotonous, not just for you but for your muscles because they get too used to repeating the same movements. Shake things up by taking a new class, searching for a new workout video online, or jogging down a new trail. I’m sure you’re eager to spend more time outdoors in the warmer weather, so switching up your exercise regimen will do you good on many levels.

Remove negativity

Whether it’s negative people in your life or bad habits you’ve been meaning to give the boot, use springtime as an opportunity to get rid of anything that has been bogging you down. What comes to mind immediately when you read this sentence? Chances are, that’s precisely what you need to work on releasing. As you do this important work of releasing negativity, make sure to replace the negatives in your life with positives.

Disconnect more

When you aren’t at work, be intentional about taking time off from technology as much as possible. Use the time to connect with people face-to-face. Meet your friends for lunch, read a book, explore a new part of your city, or find other creative outlets that will keep you from being glued to a screen. You’ll feel so much happier when you do. Even if you start by allotting a set amount of screen-free hours per day, you’ll be making a huge difference in your relationships and happiness levels.

Eat better

Spring is an ideal time to give your eating habits a makeover. Take notice of how you feel on a daily basis. Are you feeling energized by what you eat? Sluggish? Exhausted by mid-afternoon? Your food choices are a main component of the answer to any of these questions. If you realize that you’re more sluggish than energized, incorporate more whole foods into your daily routine. Phase out the processed foods one by one, replacing them with healthier options.

A better budget

Living paycheck to paycheck is a reality for many people, and it’s become much more so over the last year. Unfortunately, it isn’t always easy to fix monetary challenges, but use this new season to pinpoint areas where you can make incremental changes with regard to your funds. Review your financial situation and see which expenses can be cut, how you can increase your savings for a rainy day, and how you can give back to those in need.

Something new

I’m sure you have a few hobbies you enjoy, but spring might be the perfect time to welcome new, interesting pursuits. Join a painting or cooking class, learn a new language, or delve into something you’ve always wanted to try. It’s invigorating to fuel our quest for creativity. And above all, treat yourself. Indulge in activities that make you come alive, spark creativity, and engender playfulness.

What’s at the top of your “spring cleaning my life” list of priorities?