Summary of Cleaning as Self-Care – zen habits zen habits:
The author discusses how cleaning, organizing, and decluttering can be a form of self-care. They share their personal experience of feeling settled and taking care of their life through cleaning. They encourage readers to approach cleaning tasks with enjoyment and to focus on the present moment rather than feeling overwhelmed by the never-ending nature of cleaning. The author also extends the concept of self-care through cleaning and organization to other areas of life, such as organizing finances and simplifying technology. They emphasize the importance of taking tasks one at a time and seeing them as a way to take care of oneself.
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Summary:
– Cleaning and organizing can be a form of self-care and help create a sense of calm and control in our lives.
– Taking small steps and focusing on one task at a time can make cleaning and organizing less overwhelming.
– The feeling of progress and liberation that comes with decluttering can be incredibly rewarding.
– We can extend the self-care mindset to other areas of our lives, such as finances and digital clutter.
– Taking care of our lives, one task at a time, can bring a sense of accomplishment and well-being.
Now let’s dig into the article:
Cleaning as Self-Care – Zen Habits by Leo Babauta
We all know that cleaning and organizing can be a chore. It’s something we often put off, avoid, or consider a necessary evil. But what if I told you that cleaning and organizing can actually be a form of self-care? That it can bring a sense of calm, control, and well-being into our lives? It might sound strange at first, but bear with me as I share my own experience and why I believe that cleaning can be a powerful tool for self-improvement.
A few days ago, I returned home from a short trip and immediately unpacked and washed my clothes. I put everything away, and I have to say, it felt nice. The next morning, however, I woke up feeling a bit unsettled. Something was off, and I couldn’t quite put my finger on it. So I did something entirely unexpected – I started cleaning.
I started in the kitchen, tidying up the countertops and giving them a good scrub. Then I moved outside into the yard, sweeping away the fallen leaves and debris. Finally, I tackled the garage, organizing the tools and clearing out the clutter. And you know what? I felt so good. It wasn’t just the satisfaction of seeing things clean and neat; it was the act of taking care of my surroundings that brought me a sense of peace and contentment.
For me, cleaning is not just about getting rid of dirt and grime. It’s about creating a physical and mental space that allows me to thrive. When I clean, I feel a connection to my environment and a sense of control over my life. It’s as if by scrubbing away the mess, I’m also clearing away the mental clutter and making space for clarity and focus.
Of course, cleaning and organizing can be overwhelming. The thought of tackling an entire room or an entire house can be daunting, and that’s why we often procrastinate or avoid it altogether. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Instead of focusing on the enormity of the task, start small. Take a single corner or a single drawer and give it your undivided attention. Allow yourself to get lost in the process, to enjoy the act of making things nicer.
Think of it this way – there will always be more to clean, more to organize, more to declutter. But why does that matter? Instead of feeling overwhelmed by the never-ending nature of the task, see it as an opportunity for ongoing self-care. There will always be more tea to drink, but you only need to focus on the cup in front of you, savoring each sip. The same goes for cleaning – take it one small portion at a time, and relish in the care and attention you bring to each task.
As you clean, pay attention to the subtle shifts happening within you. Notice how you feel as things get cleaner and more organized. Feel the progression of settledness and calmness as you put things in their rightful place. And when you declutter, feel the liberation that comes with each item you toss out. It’s a satisfying and empowering experience that can boost your mood and lift your spirits.
Cleaning and organizing, however, doesn’t have to be confined to physical spaces. We can extend this self-care practice into every aspect of our lives. Just yesterday, I decided to tackle my finances. I organized my bills, created a budget, and set financial goals for myself. It wasn’t the most glamorous task, but it felt like an act of self-love and care. By taking control of my financial situation, I am taking care of my future self.
Similarly, I’ve been noticing the little things around the house that need fixing, and I’ve been actioning them one by one. It may seem insignificant, but each small task completed brings a sense of accomplishment and well-being. And just this morning, I took a digital decluttering spree. I deleted unnecessary apps from my phone, turned off notifications, and unsubscribed from countless newsletters. By simplifying my digital life, I’m creating space for more meaningful connections and experiences.
So, my friends, I invite you to embrace cleaning as a form of self-care. See it not as a burdensome task but as an opportunity to take care of your life, one corner at a time. Enjoy the process, relish in the small victories, and celebrate the sense of calm and control that comes with a clean and organized environment. Take this mindset beyond physical spaces and start organizing other aspects of your life. Trust me, you’ll be amazed at how this simple act can bring about profound changes.
Remember, it’s not about the destination, but the journey of self-care and self-improvement that matters. So grab your broom, grab your mop, and let’s dive into the world of cleaning as self-care together.
