Right, so I was chatting with my friend Aidan the other day, and we got onto the subject of wellness at home. He knows I’m passionate about making the most of your space for exercise and relaxation – think yoga, meditation, that sort of thing – and he’s always looking for ways to reduce stress. Turns out, he’d been reading an article about ‘Seasonal Decluttering: A Guide to Refreshing Your Home and Mind Throughout the Year’, and it really resonated with him. I thought I’d share our conversation (well, the highlights anyway!), as it might give you some ideas too.
“It’s not just about tidying, is it?” Aidan started, sipping his tea. “The article talked about how decluttering can actually reduce stress, transforming your home into a calm and functional space. I’ve always felt a bit overwhelmed by the sheer volume of stuff. “
I nodded. “Exactly! It’s about creating a sanctuary. Think of it like this: clutter equals chaos, chaos equals stress. Getting rid of the unnecessary makes room, both physically and mentally, for the things that truly matter, and makes you feel good.”
“So, this ‘seasonal’ approach…tell me more,” he pressed.
“Well,” I explained, “the idea is to align your decluttering efforts with the natural rhythms of the year. Each season presents a different opportunity. Think about it: in spring, you’re naturally inclined to freshen things up, so focus on clearing out winter’s remnants – bulky coats, unused heating gadgets, that kind of thing. It’s a great time to go through your wardrobe and donate anything you haven’t worn in the past year. Cleaning out cupboards works well too, focusing on clearing out dated food items and things you never actually use.”
“And what about summer?” Aidan asked.
“Summer’s perfect for tackling outdoor spaces, the garden, sheds and garages. Get rid of broken garden tools, unused furniture, and anything that’s just collecting dust. Also, it’s a good time to thin out and clear out kids toys and items they have outgrown whilst the weather is nice enough to do this outside. You could also get children involved in donating any old clothing or toys.”
“Okay, I see the pattern,” he said. “So, autumn would be preparing for winter?”
“Spot on! Autumn’s all about getting organised for the colder months. Think about decluttering your pantry and stocking up on essentials. Go through your linen cupboard and get rid of old towels and bedding. Organise your entryway so it’s ready for muddy boots and wet coats. It’s also a good time to check your home for drafts and make any necessary repairs before the winter chill sets in.”
“And winter?” Aidan asked. “Sounds like that’s when you put your feet up!”
“Not entirely! Winter is a great time for indoor decluttering projects that you’ve been putting off all year. Go through your books, DVDs, and paperwork. Clear out your home office and get rid of anything you no longer need. It’s also a good time to organise photos and digital files. Perfect time for cosying up indoors and sorting through those things you have avoided.”
“The article also talked about storing seasonal items efficiently,” I continued. “That’s key to keeping the clutter at bay. Use vacuum storage bags for bulky clothes, label everything clearly, and store items in easily accessible locations. If you don’t have space, consider off-site storage.”
Aidan was scribbling notes. “This is really helpful. What about the orangery angle? You know how I’ve been thinking about getting one…”
“An orangery could be amazing for wellness!” I enthused. “Imagine a dedicated space for yoga, flooded with natural light. You can declutter the rest of your home and keep your orangery just for relaxation and exercise. Add some plants, a comfortable mat, and maybe a small water feature – instant zen! Plus, it’s a flexible space for all ages. The kids can have a calmer space for reading and homework, too.”
“I like that idea,” Aidan said, thoughtfully. “A dedicated sanctuary. Away from the rest of the house. You’re right. If I put the effort into decluttering as a seasonal activity, then having a specific area like the orangery for wellbeing and exercise would be a great reward.”
Decluttering isn’t just a spring clean; it’s an ongoing process that helps you create a more peaceful and functional home all year round. Aligning your efforts with the seasons makes it less daunting and more intuitive. By clearing out the unnecessary, you make room for the things that bring you joy, creating a home that supports your well-being and reduces stress. And, of course, a decluttered space provides the perfect foundation for a dedicated wellness area, like an orangery, where you can truly relax, recharge, and focus on your physical and mental health.
