Out with the Old, In with the New
         
“When the old does not go, the new will not come” is one of my favorite Chinese sayings. According to the ancient science of feng shui, clutter represents stagnation of energy that can lead to feeling lethargic and depressed.

The holidays have become filled gift-giving, which means that many new things—wanted and unwanted—enter your home every holiday season. With the New Year upon us, it’s time to extend the holiday spirit by making revitalizing and organizing your life a joyous activity.

Here are some tips to help you uplift your mental and physical energy and jumpstart the New Year:

• Use It or Lose It. Everything in your home, no matter how small or large, ideally has a special purpose. When you are going through the things in your house, decide whether or not each item has a use. If not, it’s time to move it out and create a more positive energy flow within your home.
• Start Small. Don’t try to de-clutter your home in a single day. Instead, pick one room at a time. Go through every drawer, cupboard and closet. Touch everything only once, and decide then if it is something to keep or let go of.
• Balance Emotion. A lot of people hang on to things that they associate with good memories or because they are sentimental treasures. It is best to keep only a few special pieces that have the most emotional value. If you receive a gift that isn’t your style, feel free to pass it on to someone who will value it.
• Find New Value. Many people are hesitant to give away things they once paid hard-earned money for. Remember that some things are relevant for only certain periods in our life. Once we no longer need or use them, it’s best to put them back out into the universe for others to enjoy. Share the wealth, and you will experience the joy of giving while creating space for the “new” to arrive.

After the clutter is cleared, your home energy will flow and your mind and body will feel peaceful. By achieving harmony with your physical environment, you will open the door to improved health, greater prosperity and more meaningful relationships.

This year, resolve to give yourself room to breathe! You’ll then be prepared to enjoy all that 2008 has to bring. To learn more about feng shui or schedule an appointment, call my office at 415.544.9104, or log on to www.drwonson.com.