Happy Winter Solstice! Around this time last year I went on my first winter float. Winter floats are different from summer floats because it’s cold, of course, and there’s an element of danger knowing if you flip, you better get out of that water quick! But there’s also something about how quiet and peaceful the river is that makes winter floats extra special. Learning to value experiences like these over buying more junk has had a major impact on my life. What better time to get rid of the junk than the winter solstice?
Junk goes beyond material items. Junk can also be intrusive thoughts, bad habits, and emotional baggage. The winter solstice gives us an opportunity to reflect and think about what we would like to take with us into the next year, and what we would like to leave behind. I’ve recently purged my home of unwanted items, and now I’m in the beginning steps of becoming a professional organizer and helping others do the same. You’ll often find me preaching the gospel of minimalism and for good reason. There are so many benefits to purging one’s life of the unnecessary junk and living with only what you really need:
Your mind becomes more clear. Without the clutter, you can focus better.
It can also improve your health mentally and physically.
Less stuff means less to worry about. Less to clean and less to maintain.
Having fewer items gives you more time and more freedom to enjoy doing what you love.
Stuff breaks down, but memories last a lifetime. Invest in those experiences!
The winter solstice is a great time for reflection. Think about what you’d like to take with you into the next year and what you would like to leave behind. Start cleaning out those closets, the pantry, the basement and other neglected spaces. Sweep out the cobwebs that have been accumulating in the corners of your home and prepare yourself for the new year. Here are some ideas for how to celebrate the winter solstice:
What would you like to leave behind in 2021?