#160 Dehoarding with the seasons: get inspired by nature when everything is overwhelming

11/10/2024 30 min Episodio 160
#160 Dehoarding with the seasons: get inspired by nature when everything is overwhelming

Listen "#160 Dehoarding with the seasons: get inspired by nature when everything is overwhelming"

Episode Synopsis

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Podcast show notes, links and transcript: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/ 

In this episode, I explore how the change of seasons can inspire and motivate dehoarding efforts, with autumn in the northern hemisphere and spring in the southern hemisphere being upon us. Drawing on traditions like harvest festivals and spring cleaning, we'll discuss how nature’s rhythms can support our journey toward a more organised home. Plus, personal insights on managing the emotional challenges of letting go and tips for embracing seasonal transitions as opportunities for growth.
Seasonal Influence on Dehoarding
Autumn Motivation
Mixed feelings: beauty vs. precursor to winter
Harvest festivals: gratitude and inspiration for giving and decluttering
Nesting instincts as a motivational tool for organizing
Spring Motivation
Symbolism of renewal and hope
Growth and change as motivators for overcoming hoarding disorder
Spring cleaning tradition as an opportunity for new beginnings
Emotional Aspects of Decluttering
Acknowledge and understand feelings like overwhelm, anxiety, confusion, and fear
Use emotions to gain self-insight and understand attachment to items
Seek support from therapists, friends, family, or professional organisers
Practical Steps for Dehoarding
Assess possessions when transitioning between seasons
Evaluate practical use of items like blankets and coats
Decluttering inspired by seasonal changes
Focus on small areas to avoid overwhelm
Small, consistent changes over dramatic ones
Set realistic goals for home improvements by New Year
Community and Support
Engage in dehoarding accountability sessions for communal support
Donating items to reduce unnecessary storage
Assess what you want for your home as the year end approaches
Aiming for improvement, maintenance, or worsened state?
Set intentions
Walking, observing nature, and journaling
Creating Rituals and Redefining Comfort
Suggest creating rituals in tune with seasonal changes to aid decluttering
Redefine comfort by reducing clutter rather than accumulating more
Highlight the importance of a comfortable, decluttered space for winter

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