There are two types of people: the ones who declutter before a move so they move fewer things, have an easier move and feel a true reset in their new space. Then there are those who pack every item up, move it all to their new space and decide later what stays and what goes. But I’m not here to shame you or tell you what’s right or wrong. I’m here to help you intentionally observe your environment and habits.
I know exactly which kind of mover I am. Which type are you?
Now, let’s see if you guessed me right. I am pretty sure I have moved more often than the average person, traipsing NYC boroughs, states and countries. And alongside that, I am a self-proclaimed maximalist Feng Shui expert. You probably thought I was the type who easily lets go of things and moves lightly? Nope. I like my things and how they make me feel, so many sentimental objects made the latest transatlantic move with me. What can I say? I know what I want my home to feel like no matter where I am in the world.
They say that moving is one of life’s most stressful events. That explains why it’s so hard to pack up your kitchen and have the urge to throw the whole junk drawer in the cardboard box in one fast move. I’ve been there. Do you really want to think about whether you keep the bottle opener that you bought for your first apartment, but now is a little broken? That’s a lot of work.
When I moved to Paris, I had to juggle the weight of what do I bring, but am I disappointing my friends and family by moving so far away? Am I doing my business a disservice by moving across the Atlantic? Will people think I’m nuts to just pack up and move to a foreign-speaking country where buying a bottle of shampoo proved to be the equivalent of having a conversation at the DMV?
Then the more I thought about this topic, the more I realized this isn’t really about moving, but about letting go. I talk a lot about physical clutter, but the most interesting thing is that the heaviest things we carry are often not physical.
So where do you start? As we approach the summer solstice and the longest day of the year, it’s a beautiful time to ask yourself what you’d like to feel lighter about. Ask yourself:
• What are the things you are carrying that feel heavy and may not even belong to you?
• Where could you create more lightness in your life?
• What are you holding onto out of obligation rather than desire?
• What feels overdue?
• What no longer fits who you are?
And I’m not just talking about physical things…I know you knew that was coming. Things you can let go of can be feelings of obligation, certain friendships that don’t lift you up, expectations that others have for you or even, okay, physical clutter. Do you still have some of your ex’s belongings? Do you have a painting that your late uncle painted and you don’t particularly like but feel guilty about giving away?
I haven’t given you a Feng Shui Warrior action step in a long time and because you will hopefully have more daylight, and hopefully energy this weekend, let’s go!
Take a look around you, at your space, your calendar, your computer desktop, your inbox, anywhere that feels full and maybe that you don’t even want to look at. That’s usually a good hint you’re looking at the right places. Then give yourself permission this weekend to let go of one thing. Then tell me, how did that feel?
Feng Shui doesn’t have to be a huge undertaking. One day at a time is how I like to go.
If what you’re carrying feels bigger than one object or one weekend project, know that you don’t have to do it alone. Sometimes a fresh perspective can help you see what is ready to stay, what is ready to go and what wants to emerge next. Whether through an AstroStrategy Experience, a Room Refresh or a full Feng Shui consultation, I’d be happy to support you.
Now go forth and prosper. Summer be with you.
