As we're now entering the Spring season, we begin to see the cycle of nature renewing itself all around us. It is a time of new beginnings and new opportunities. Traditionally, we have the practice of "spring cleaning" in which we go through our homes and clean out the old dust and clutter that has gathered over the course of the Autumn and Winter months. This practice has much in common with the ancient philosophy of Feng Shui, which put simply is the art of arranging our surroundings in such a way as to facilitate the smooth and healthy flow of energy. Although most seldom pay much mind to it, the practice of cleaning and removing clutter at the start of Spring has a profound effect on our physical and psychological energies, which in turn affect our progress into the new year.
With these things in mind, let us look at a few simple things you can do this time of year to clear out old stagnant energies and invite fresh new Qi into your home and life.
First, take a look at the walkways of your home -- particularly around the entryways. We want to make sure that there is no clutter blocking these paths. Clutter at the entryways is said to prevent fresh Qi from entering the home, while blocked pathways can cause existing Qi to stagnate.
Next, turn your attention to the surfaces in your home. Tables, counters, shelves, etc. Look for any disorganized clutter or piles of materials. Clean off the surfaces and organize any objects neatly. If there are piles of papers or random objects, the flow of Qi will be disturbed and the home will not feel as open and inviting.
Now that you have cleared away the obstacles and disordered items from the open areas of the home, make sure that the quiet, private areas are comfortable and relaxing. Pay particular attention to the bedroom. The bedroom should be a place of peace and serenity. There should be no stimulating objects, noises, or colors here. When it's time to rest, we need to separate ourselves from stimulating things like TV, computers, phones, and etc. If we aren't able to rest well, our energy levels and eventually our health will suffer.
Finally, in keeping with any Spring cleaning routine, get rid of any items that are no longer needed or that have come to inspire negative feelings. As the new cycle of seasons begins, we want to leave behind anything that is left over baggage from the previous cycle. This is a powerful tool for shaping the mind for progress in life.
After all, we want to give ourselves the best footing for making a fresh new start to the year. Release old attachments that no longer serve. Clear away blockages and obstacles. Open the mind, the heart, and the home to this new season of growth.
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