Time For The Annual Spring Clean!
With winter finally on the way out and the start of British summertime just around the corner your thoughts may be turning to the ritual of the annual spring clean.
The origins of spring cleaning traditions date back to ancient times. For centuries, Iranians have been following the ritual of “shaking the house” just before the start of the Persian New Year which falls on the first day of spring, cleaning everything inside the house from the carpets, curtains furniture to silverware and clearing the garden of winter debris. This is believed to rid the house of evil spirits. In Scotland it’s also traditional to give the house a thorough clean on Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve) and in Jewish tradition spring cleaning is done in preparation for the Passover feast. In Greece and other Orthodox countries spring cleaning is carried out just before the start of Great Lent which is referred to as Clean Week.
In many cultures spring cleaning is associated with spiritual renewal. In China, for example, it is believed to get rid of the bad luck of the past year and get your home ready to fill with the good luck sure to follow in the new one. Many people use this time to repaint their homes and fix anything that’s broken.
Spring cleaning isn’t just about cleaning your home. It’s also about getting rid of clutter that you don’t need. Experts agree that clutter is bad for our physical health, providing a breeding ground for mould and bacteria and dust that can exacerbate certain medical conditions such as asthma and eczema. Living in a messy, disorganised environment can also create stress and anxiety. So de-cluttering is actually good for your mental health too, creating a sense of control and enhanced well-being. And you don’t need to be a hoarder to enjoy the benefits! Tackling that pile of junk in your loft, garage or cellar (or even on the back seat of your car!) or simply taking a couple of hours to tidy up the garden ready for spring will make you feel more calm and relaxed and create a sense of spiritual renewal.
Why not take advantage of the natural urge that comes each spring and make a plan for getting rid of all your clutter over the next month? You’ll not only be creating more space in your home but also in your mind. You’ll feel much better for it and the cleaning will be so much easier too once you’ve cleared away all the junk! You may even make a little cash on the side by selling your unwanted items on eBay to put towards a holiday or some new home furnishings.
Don’t forget that Away With It is always here to help by taking away anything you want to get rid of that can’t be donated or sold.
