Our version of "Spring Cleaning"

One of our favorite things to do in April is a full Spring cleaning. Take some time this month to evaluate which aspects of your life may need clearing and decluttering -- physical, mental or emotional.

When it comes to Spring cleaning, think of the saying "out with the old, in with the new." Clearing, cleaning and decluttering are ways to release things that no longer serve us and make space for things that will.

Start with your physical surroundings. What might need clearing or decluttering this month? Often, making room physically can give us a sense of expansiveness mentally as well. Start small, with one drawer or shelf. What do you notice?  What are you struggling to let go of?  What are you eager to release?

Next, expand your Spring cleaning to other aspects of your life.  Are there relationships, habits, patterns, connections and/or beliefs you've been holding onto that no longer serve you? Even more importantly, are you ready to let these go?

If you’re stuck and don’t know how to move forward, explore with mindfulness-based tools.  Use meditation, journaling, or another mindfulness-based tool.  These tools provide three main benefits to a Spring cleaning process:

1. They allow you to notice exactly what you’re feeling.  They give you the space to quiet down external distractions and truly listen to your thoughts, physical sensations, and emotions.
2. They give permission to witness sensations, thoughts and feelings without judgment or recoil.  This gives you an even deeper view into what’s true for you.
3. You’re then able to respond mindfully to your needs (rather than knee jerk reacting), in this case clearing what doesn’t serve you and holding on to what does.

If the Spring cleaning process feels challenging, give yourself a dose of grace and compassion. Know that we're only human. We build many of these habits, belief systems and attachments through sheer repetition, over long periods of time. Clearing these patterns can be challenging -- but also incredibly rewarding. That's what we're here to help you with!

For further support, check out these resources:

·        One-on-one mindfulness coaching -- included in 6 mo. programs OR can be added a-la-carte

·        Meditation -- tracks can be found on our app

·        Message us through our portal

Author

Mariel Ilardi  Mariel became a weight loss coach with SMWL after being a patient herself -- having lost 65 pounds through the program! In addition to coaching SMWL patients, Mariel is the founder and CEO of Haven Coaching, an executive and career coaching company.