The holidays are a magical time of year, full of family, friends, food and well, stuff.  The stuff given during the holidays, the stuff that rings holiday cheer, the new stuff that replaced the old stuff. So much stuff and stuff!

When the last of the wrappings are disposed of, the leftovers gone, the cookies merely a memory and the final candle burned to a nub, give yourself and your home a much-needed cleaning out before you ring in the new year or write your first resolution.

For centuries, the Japanese have practiced “oosouji,” translated to “big cleaning.”  This age-old ritual is spring cleaning for both your soul and your spaces, removing the old dust, figuratively and literally, before the start of a fresh new year.  This practice is used not only in the home, but in schools and workplaces, as well.  The Japanese believe in cleansing our physical places and soul spaces, letting go of the negative energy and “dust” of the past year, to have a clean and fresh start to the new year.

Begin with putting away the holiday cheer.  Be careful and methodical with your process.  Are you hanging on to decorations that you truly love, or out of habit?  Be honest with yourself, and wrap what you keep in fresh tissue paper.  You will thank yourself next year when you unwrap your favorite ornaments, awakening them for their time to shine.

Next, think about what wonderful gifts were received during the holidays.  Did you receive that beautiful new cheese tray and knife you admired?  Now is the time to let go of the old one.  Have boxes and bags (you know you have lots of those around) handy for items to store, donate or throw away.

Do a thorough cleaning of each room, starting at the ceiling and moving down and clockwise around the room.  Knock down those corner cobwebs, wipe the dusty blinds and vacuum under and behind your furniture.  Everyone in the family can have fun with this project.

This is also a good time to be sure everything is in good working order; lightbulbs shining, batteries full, stains removed, small projects completed.

For your soul cleaning, simply let go. Breathe deeply. Forgive. Love.