Hey guys, it's that time of year again! Can you believe it's spring already? 

The equinox came early this year, bringing with it much-needed longer days and blue skies. But it's a little different this time around, with most of us stuck inside! Whether you are social distancing or self-isolating, everyone is spending more time in their homes — which is a good and a bad thing, all at the same time.

Spending so much time indoors, especially when the sun is shining, can take a toll on our mental health. But it also provides a window of opportunity to get stuck into cleaning, decluttering and other household activities to help usher in a new season.

What’s more, in a situation where we are using our homes for everything from work to exercise, and school work to downtime, it is important we create an organized, stress-free space. Take advantage of this time we have, and use it for a spot of spring cleaning — you may just be surprised how well the process eases your mind!

Why is spring cleaning so important in the home?

Springtime has always symbolized fresh starts and a renewed sense of hope. And, because of this, spring cleaning is a perfect opportunity to refresh your environment. In our current situation, spring cleaning is even more important than ever, and although it is hard to motivate yourself to clean, now is the time to do it! 

If you’re struggling to get started, these four tips can help:

Make a to-do list - Beginning your spring clean can feel daunting, no matter what size space you're in. Create a to-do list and divide tasks out by day, and this will leave you less overwhelmed. There is also no need to rush through your list, the extra time at home will allow you to complete your tasks at a steadier, more enjoyable, pace.

Organize cupboards/pantries - You may have filled your cupboards recently, meaning you have a lot more food than usual. So this is a great time to go through your storage and see exactly what you have and where. Chuck out anything old, create new recipes and really begin to organize your kitchen. NYC-based Neat Method has a wonderful range of wire baskets and storage containers for everything from dishes, tea products and wine bottles. This will not only help you declutter your space but will have your cupboards and pantry looking luxurious, too.

If you are a New Yorker and need help with organizing, contact Louisa Roberts @nycneat_louisa with Neat Method. Louisa is the best when it comes to organizing and getting things in order. And if you are not from New York area, no worries at all, Neat Method has multiple locations across the states and in Canada.

Closet Clear-out - No spring clean is complete without a closet clear-out! Everyone has at least a couple of items they don't wear anymore, and now is the perfect time to get rid.  Organize the stuff you don't want, to give to friends or charity at a later date. 

Creating a makeshift office space - If you are working from home right now, you may be needing an improved sense of order in your impromptu work space! Using storage boxes and tags can be a life saver for when you have to find something quickly, and they can be stored neatly under your desk or on a shelf. If you can, clearing out a drawer and creating color-coded folders (or using the colored sticky-notes) can be a great way to divide and sort your paperwork. See the Neat Method’s instagram and Neat Method NYC based Louisa’s page for some office inspiration or drop me a line to discuss what you need — I’ll happily give a free 30 minute consultation to help transform a corner of your home into a fully-functioning, supercharged work space!

Taking these small steps in spring cleaning will provide you with a huge emotional and mental lift, allowing you to relax and enjoy your space more while nailing the working from home challenge.

Spring cleaning for the soul

Spring cleaning shouldn’t be seen as a chore. With shows such as Marie Kondo's The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, we have learnt the ways in which having a tidy space can truly "spark joy." 

Here’s what you seek to gain from a spring clean:

Reduced stress - While a long to-do list can be overwhelming, the act of cleaning can actually help relax you and reduce stress and anxiety by 20%. Also, by the end you'll have a sparkling home to relax in, so it’s a win-win situation! 

Increased productivity - As they say, a tidy space equals a tidy mind. And not having the distraction of mess and clutter means you have more time to focus on checking off your to-do list. Cleaning also works as a form of exercise and gets you moving, which in turn releases endorphins and improves your mood! 

A feeling of accomplishment - Who doesn't love the satisfaction of ticking tasks off a to-do list? While not everyone enjoys the act of cleaning, the end result can bring an enormous sense of well-being and achievement, which in turn leads to more motivation to take on other tasks!

If you are still unsure, I highly recommend "Organizing Your Home with SORT and SUCCEED - Five Steps to Stop Clutter Before It Starts, Save Money and Simplify Your Life." by Darla DeMarrow. This amazing book will give you advice on how to organize and stay organized: a "master plan" if you will.

It is important to take time to mentally declutter too, especially in these uncertain times. 

Although it may feel lonely, this is the time to wander through quiet city streets, reconnect digitally with old friends, reflect on your life's direction or just explore your bookshelf. And each of these activities is a beautiful thing in itself. 

There will be a time (very soon!) when we can plan some exciting home decoration projects, again. 

For now, though, I’m really happy to chat about how to make your spring storage solutions sleek and stylish. So drop me an email or give me a call. 

Either way, stay in touch and stay safe!