Are You Shedding?
It seems as though the dog days of summer came early this year. It's been sweltering here in the city, day and night, causing us to need the AC around the clock. We've had a bit of a reprieve this week, but surely August will get us back into the 90's soon enough.
Summer can be as isolating as winter, which leads me to the point of this week's newsletter. Like the winter doldrums, now is the best time to time to prepare for the upcoming change in the season and change the energy inside your home. Some of you may have the added bonus of a quiet house with the kids being away for camp, this is the best time to divide and conquer any cluttery areas that are weighing on you. Here are 3 ways to help get you started:
1. Tackle a Tabletop: Look at the tables in your home—coffee table, bedside table, the table next to the front door—and figure out what needs to go and what needs to be put away. More than likely, it’s unpaid bills, a letter from your Aunt Tina that you’ve been putting off lately, some bits and pieces from your bags and briefcase, or magazines that you haven’t read it. Take the time to junk whatever should be thrown away, file what needs to be kept, and organize what should be there in the first place.
2. Question your Countertops: Similar to the plight of the table, unnecessary items build up over time, often when you are in a rush or are distracted. Think about what should be on your kitchen counter and how often that item is used. If it’s the blender you use once a week or a coffeemaker that’s only given life when there are guests around, put it away! However, if your Nutri-Bullet is the source of your daily breakfast shake, it’s earned it’s spot in the corner of the counter. If you have ten mugs but there’s only two of you in your home, it might be time to reconsider how many you really need. Your counter is a functional space and should be treated as such.
3. Wear Down your Wardrobe: Start with those summer clothes that you haven’t put on once this year—that bikini bottom that maybe showed a little too much for your liking, the pink knitted sarong that you got on vacation three years ago, and everything else that doesn’t fit, is worn out, or that you just don’t care about anymore. Then go over your fall and winter gear. What should be replaced? What doesn’t serve you? If they are still usable, donate them to your local shelter or to a donation center. Remember that while they may not be what you need anymore, they could be perfect for someone else.
When you are stuffed with things you don’t need that take up too much room, the heat only increases. By clearing out and removing these unnecessary items you will find yourself feeling at ease and accomplished.