Do you look at parts of your home and feel exhausted? Perhaps piles of books, stacks of papers or disorganized clothes make you want to curl up in a ball. If you feel unable to “get control ” or “stay organized” in your home, it may leave you feeling powerless, small, or defeated.
Feeling overwhelmed by your environment is uncomfortable and can have a long term impact on your well-being. Even if your stress is low-level, chronic low-level stress takes a toll! Alternatively, imagine walking in to your living room, office, or bedroom, and feeling a sense of expansion, like a deep exhale, “Aaaahhh.” Imagine your space making you feel open and energized. How does your body feel when you imagine your room as spacious and free of clutter? When I close my eyes and do this exercise, I feel my chest expanding, my posture straightening. I may even feel my arms coming up, as though to encompass the space or to give it a hug.
It turns out that there is science behind body movements (“nonverbals”) and feelings. Amy Cuddy did an excellent TED Talk about how our bodies can change our minds! In more technical terms, “our nonverbals govern how we think and feel about ourselves.” That is to say, the feelings of physical expansion from the visualizing exercises can actually change our minds and allow us to to feel more confident and powerful!
The next time you face a cluttered surface or pile, try this exercise: close your eyes and assume a “powerful” pose. Try holding your arms up and out in a V. Do it for two minutes (set the timer!). How do you feel afterwards? It may be subtle, but this exercise can help you to feel more ready and capable to take on the next task.
Of course, visualizing exercises won’t declutter your space for you. If at any point you need support, we’re happy to help. Our mindful decluttering strategies incorporate the mind/body connection. We can even do the exercise together before getting started!
Remember: tiny tweaks can lead to big changes : )
Have you tried the power V or do you have other any strategies to support you before or during a challenging experience? Let us know in the comments!
Discover more ways to mindfully declutter your home or office here! >>
I watched the TED talk about the two minute pose and as TED talks usually are, it was outstanding. It’s a simple concept that can help make you become powerful in any situation. It will be great for building the confidence and motivation needed to conquer clutter, but as a musician it can help to practice this before addressing your audience. Thanks!
It’s so gratifying when the simple things make a huge difference. Here’s another great one: https://www.fastcompany.com/3044546/work-smart/why-saying-this-four-letter-word-can-transform-your-productivity