How do we end up with so many containers that don’t work?

It becomes overwhelming with what to do with them and how to use them and what to put in them.. oh I am getting overwhelmed as I am writing this. So I am going to give three principles for using baskets and storage containers.

1. Sizing matters. Use the right size container to store the right amount of stuff. Don’t have large objects spilling out of a small container or have a large container with small objects getting lost inside.

2. One basket/container per same or similar stuff. No catch alls. It is better to have as many as you need with only one purpose for each one, than having a large container with everything dumped in. You’ll never find anything in those. For example in my kitchen, as pictured, I have a large open shelf unit.  There are two grapevine baskets for supplies. One holds pencils and pens. The other holds tape, scissors, post its, etc. That’s it. Keep it basic and simple.

3. Stick with one style that fits the decor. If baskets are what works, then use the same exact basket or style for the area. I have a client who was using different shaped and sized wicker baskets to hold various items on shelves in her black contemporary desk/hutch. It didn’t work. I suggested sleek black boxes to hold her items which matched perfectly and the boxes blended in and almost disappeared, another benefit.

4. It doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to work!

What to do with the rest after you have found your perfect fit? Get rid of them! Don’t hold on to them. Donate or my favorite thing is freecycle.org. Really, I am addicted to see what people are trading. I love matching resources to needs.

at hOMe Think Spring

The sun is warmer. The days are longer. To mark the season, this week is the holidays of Passover and Easter. Let's take a break and find ways to celebrate life! Think about what this time means to you and your family. Regardless of religious beliefs or faith, there is no denying that it is a time of renewal and rebirth. Signs are all around. I am looking out my window and see pink buds blooming on the magnolia tree, yellow and white daffodils, bluebirds, and red cardinals. To life, to life, L'Chaim!

To harness rising chi, the energy of Spring:

1. Get fresh flowers. Need I say more? They are great energy boosters and promote health. Natural beauty activates the senses with colors, shapes, and scents and make us feel good. They add oxygen, and some even can help remove toxins from the air. 

2. Sweep the front of your house first thing in the morning. Catch that rising chi. Clear away the debris from the past day and start anew. Sweeping the walkway or doorway to your home clears the space to your place. Take deep breaths while doing so. 

3. Grow food. Whether you are planting in the ground or in a container on the kitchen windowsill, put your attention on the action of growing something. At the same time, think about what area in your life you would like to see grow. Choose a favorite vegetable, fruit, or herb. Add water, sun, and watch the cycle of life. Have patience and see what you discover.

4. Play a little. Have some fun. I think we all need jellybeans about now. What's more fun than jellybeans? Count how many times you play each day.

5. Spring cleaning. Nah. April fools. We've been doing that. Ok, if you are one of the few people in the world that hasn't, now is the time.

6. Enjoy your family. If you are a family of 1 or 100, spend at least one hour of 100% focused quality all-in time. Maybe start a new tradition of your own.

7 Things To Do To Feel More Zen

While we can't control the world around us, we can control our home environment. For many of us, the return to the office has introduced new challenges, making it vital to cultivate an oasis of peace and zen within our living spaces. Here are 7 things to do to make your life more peaceful and zen.

1. Get outside: Eat your lunch or dinner outside. It's important to get on your feet and move, even if it is leaving your house or office building and then sitting at a table to eat.

2. Clear out your medicine cabinet: Throw out expired or unused medical and cosmetic items such as expired vitamins, medicines, suntan lotions, make-up, and shampoos. Doing this action of tossing out health products symbolizes moving on stagnant energy.

3. Optimize your fridge: Clean and clear to make it sparkly clean. Discard old items. Check your condiments for expiration dates and usage. Don't forget all the compartments like dairy, vegetable, and meat drawers. Food is related to your health. Clearing the way for good energy.

4. Clean your kitchen: Use a non-toxic such as vinegar and water or lemon juice in water. They are natural anti-bacterial disinfectants. For extra scrub, use baking soda. Do a detailed job. find places you've never touched before. Cleaning is always a good Feng Shui thing to do.

5. Make a gratitude list: List 10 things you are grateful for daily. Read the list out loud and feel the good vibe of each. Raising your vibration keeps low-level energy at bay.

6. Read: Pick a book off your shelf that you have wanted to read. It increases your energy by going from an intention to action and is restful and relaxing.

7. Take a hot bath: Get out of those bubble bath salts! G0 to bed an hour earlier than usual. Sleep is key to good health.

Email me if you want to learn more ways to bring balance and zen to your life.