Right, let’s dive in! I’ve always been fascinated by how our homes impact our well-being. Today, I’m chatting with Imogen, who’s been a real whizz at transforming her house into a multi-generational haven, particularly focusing on how decluttering and organisation play a huge role in stress reduction. So, Imogen, welcome! Tell me, where did you even begin?
“It felt overwhelming at first,” Imogen admits, “But I started with a simple premise: less stuff equals less stress. We have my mum, myself, my partner, and our two kids all under one roof, so everyone’s belongings seemed to have multiplied!”
The Initial Declutter: A Step-by-Step Guide
Imogen’s approach was methodical. She tackled one room at a time, armed with three boxes: ‘Keep,’ ‘Donate/Sell,’ and ‘Trash.’
- Step 1: Start Small: “The kitchen drawers were my starting point. Utensils we hadn’t used in months, duplicates… it was incredible how much clutter had accumulated.”
- Step 2: Be Ruthless: “This is the hard part! Ask yourself honest questions: ‘Have I used this in the last year?’ ‘Does it bring me joy?’ If the answer is no to both, it goes!” Imogen laughs. “My kids weren’t happy about some of their old toys going, but we explained that they were going to children who needed them more.”
- Step 3: The One-In, One-Out Rule: “This is crucial for maintaining the clear space. If something new comes in, something old has to go. It stops the clutter creep!”
- Step 4: Seek Help (If Needed): “Sometimes, an objective eye is invaluable. A friend helped me sort through my wardrobe. She pointed out clothes that didn’t fit or flatter me anymore – things I just couldn’t see myself!”
Organisation is Key: Creating Functional Spaces
Decluttering is only half the battle. The next step is creating an organisational system that works for everyone.
- Vertical Storage: “We’re big fans of shelving! It maximizes space and keeps things off the floor, creating a sense of spaciousness.”
- Designated Zones: “Each member of the family has a designated area for their belongings. My mum has her crafting corner, the kids have their toy boxes, and my partner has his work area. This prevents things from spreading throughout the house.”
- Clear Containers: “We use clear plastic boxes to store everything from clothes to board games. Labelling them clearly makes it easy to find what you need.”
- Multi-Purpose Furniture: “Our coffee table has hidden storage compartments, and our sofa converts into a bed. Furniture that serves multiple purposes is essential in a multi-generational home.”
Wellness Integration: Finding Calm in the Chaos
Now, how does this decluttering and organisation translate into a wellness space, especially considering activities like yoga?
“For me, having a clear space is like a mental reset,” Imogen explains. “When everything is tidy and organised, I feel calmer and more focused. We’ve created a dedicated space for yoga and meditation in our orangery. It’s filled with natural light, plants, and soft furnishings – a real sanctuary.”
- Creating a Yoga Space: “The key is to keep it minimal. A yoga mat, a few cushions, and maybe a blanket are all you need. The orangery’s natural light and connection to the garden create a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for relaxation.”
- Adapting for All Ages: “We adapt the yoga poses to suit everyone’s abilities. My mum enjoys gentle stretches, while the kids love doing animal poses. It’s a fun way for us to connect and stay active together.”
- The Orangery Advantage: “The orangery has been a game-changer! It brings the outdoors in, which is incredibly beneficial for our mental well-being. It’s our shared space for relaxation, exercise, and social interaction. Even just sitting in there with a cup of tea and enjoying the view is incredibly calming.”
Accessibility Considerations
It’s important not to forget about accessibility, particularly when catering to older generations.
- Clear Pathways: “We made sure to create wide, clear pathways throughout the house to prevent falls. Removing clutter from walkways is crucial.”
- Grab Rails: “We installed grab rails in the bathroom and near steps for added support.”
- Good Lighting: “Adequate lighting is essential, especially for older people with impaired vision. We replaced dim bulbs with brighter ones and added task lighting in key areas.”
Ultimately, Imogen’s journey highlights that decluttering and organisation aren’t just about aesthetics; they’re about creating a home that supports well-being for everyone. By taking a step-by-step approach, being ruthless with belongings, and creating functional spaces, it’s possible to transform your home into a calm and functional haven for all ages and activities.
