Homestead

  • Decluttering, Podcast

    How to blitz the spring declutter + free checklist

    A post about how you can embrace the spring season and the feeling of rebirth. Embrace the spring declutter with my ultimate free spring decluttering checklist.

    Apple Podcasts | Spotify Podcast

    The Emotional Benefits of Spring Decluttering: Why Letting Go Can Help You Live a Happier Life

    Do you ever feel like you’re drowning in stuff? Spring is the perfect time to declutter your home and let go of unnecessary possessions. But did you know that decluttering can also have powerful emotional benefits? By letting go of physical clutter, you can also release emotional baggage, reduce stress and anxiety, and create a happier and more peaceful life. Imagine waking up each day to a clean, organized home that reflects your inner calm. In this article, we’ll explore the emotional benefits of spring decluttering and how it can help you live a happier life. You’ll learn how decluttering can reduce stress and anxiety, help you overcome emotional baggage, and improve relationships. We’ll also share the benefits of regular decluttering, tips for spring decluttering, and provide an ultimate spring cleaning decluttering list. So, get ready to embrace a simpler, happier life by letting go of what no longer serves you.

    Decluttering Reduces Stress and Anxiety

    In addition to reducing physical clutter, decluttering can also help you overcome emotional baggage that may be weighing you down. Letting go of possessions that hold negative memories or emotions can be a powerful way to release those feelings and move on. When you let go of items that no longer serve you, you create space for positive emotions and experiences. This can help you feel more in control of your life and more optimistic about the future. In the following section, we’ll explore how letting go of possessions can help you overcome emotional baggage and create a happier, more fulfilling life.,

    Letting Go of Possessions Can Help You Overcome Emotional Baggage

    Letting go of possessions can be a difficult process, especially if you have emotional attachments to them. However, holding onto these items can also hold you back emotionally. If you have negative memories associated with possessions, it can bring up those emotions every time you see them. By decluttering and letting go of these possessions, you release those negative emotions and create space for positive experiences.

    This process can be especially powerful for those who have experienced trauma or difficult life experiences. Letting go of physical possessions can be symbolic of letting go of emotional baggage that may be holding you back. It can be a way to take control of your life and move forward from past traumas.

    As you go through your possessions, take time to reflect on the emotions and memories associated with each item. If it brings up negative emotions or doesn’t serve a practical purpose, consider letting it go. You may find that as you release these items, you also release emotional burdens that have been weighing you down.

    Creating space by decluttering not only allows you to let go of emotional baggage but also allows you to focus on what really matters in life. In the next section, we’ll explore how this newfound space can help you live a happier, more fulfilling life.,

    Creating Space Allows You to Focus on What Really Matters

    Creating space through decluttering is not just about getting rid of physical items, but it also provides mental clarity and allows you to focus on what really matters in your life. When you let go of unnecessary possessions, you are essentially freeing up your mind and creating a peaceful environment that can help you think more clearly. This newfound space can give you the freedom to pursue your passions, spend more time with loved ones, and prioritize self-care, which can all contribute to a happier and more fulfilling life.

    Decluttering and creating space can also have a positive impact on your relationships. With less clutter and distractions, you can focus more on your loved ones and the time you spend together. You may find that your relationships grow stronger as you are able to be more present and engaged in your interactions. In addition, by decluttering together, you can bond over shared experiences and make decluttering a fun and meaningful activity.

    Overall, decluttering and creating space can have numerous emotional benefits that extend beyond just the physical act of getting rid of stuff. By letting go of unnecessary items and negative emotions, you can free yourself up to focus on what truly matters in life, improve your relationships, and live a happier, more fulfilling life.,

    Decluttering Can Improve Your Relationships

    With less clutter and distractions, you can focus more on interpersonal relationships and the time you spend together. Decluttering can allow you to be more present and engaged in your interactions. When you are able to focus on your loved ones, you may find that your relationships grow stronger. By decluttering together, you can bond over shared experiences and make decluttering a fun and meaningful activity.

    Regular decluttering can help you maintain these benefits and keep your relationships strong. Not only will you have more space and less clutter, but you will also be able to continue bonding with your loved ones over this shared experience.,

    The Benefits of Regular Decluttering

    In addition to the emotional benefits, there are also practical benefits to regular decluttering. When you regularly take the time to declutter, you prevent clutter from accumulating and becoming overwhelming. This means you’ll spend less time cleaning and organizing, and more time doing the things you love. Another benefit of regular decluttering is that it helps you stay organized and focused. By periodically reassessing your possessions and getting rid of what you no longer need, you create space for the things that matter most to you.

    To maintain these benefits, it’s important to make decluttering a regular habit. Set aside time every few months to go through your possessions and get rid of what you no longer need. By doing this regularly, you’ll prevent clutter from accumulating, and you’ll be able to maintain the peace and order you’ve created in your home.

    Next, we’ll explore some tips for making the most of your spring decluttering – so you can reap the benefits all year round.,

    Tips for Spring Decluttering

    To make the most out of your spring decluttering, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, set a goal for what you want to achieve with your decluttering. Whether it’s to create more space, reduce stress or simply get organized, having a clear goal in mind will help keep you motivated.

    Next, tackle one area at a time. Starting with smaller spaces like a closet or a drawer can help you build momentum and stay focused. It’s also important to have a system in place for what to keep, what to donate or sell, and what to throw away.

    Another helpful tip is to break decluttering into manageable chunks of time. Trying to tackle everything at once can be overwhelming and lead to burnout. Set aside blocks of time that work for you, whether it’s an hour a day, a full weekend, or something in between.

    Lastly, enlist the help of a friend or family member. Not only can they provide an extra set of hands, but they can also provide a fresh perspective and help keep you motivated.

    With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to a clutter-free home and a happier life. And to make things even easier, be sure to download the ultimate spring cleaning decluttering list for a step-by-step guide to conquering your clutter.,

    Download the ultimate spring cleaning decluttering list

    With spring cleaning season in full swing, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That’s why downloading the ultimate spring cleaning decluttering list can be a game-changer. This list provides a step-by-step guide to help you conquer your clutter and achieve a more organized home.

    The list is designed to break down the process into manageable tasks, so you don’t feel overwhelmed by the enormity of decluttering your entire home. It covers everything from decluttering your closet to organizing your kitchen cabinets, and it even includes tips on how to tackle sentimental items.

    By following this list, you’ll have a concrete plan of action that will help you stay motivated and focused. Plus, checking off each task as you go will give you a sense of accomplishment and progress.

    So, if you’re ready to take on the challenge of spring decluttering, make sure to download the ultimate spring cleaning decluttering list. It will be your go-to guide for achieving a clutter-free home and a happier life.

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    In conclusion, spring decluttering is not just about cleaning up your physical space. It can also positively impact your emotional well-being, reducing stress and anxiety, helping you overcome emotional baggage, improving relationships, and creating more mental clarity to focus on what really matters. Regular decluttering can provide a sense of calm and order in your life. So, take advantage of this season and let go of what you no longer need. Use the tips provided to make the process easier and start enjoying the benefits of a clutter-free life. Remember, every small step counts towards a happier and more peaceful life. As Anne Lamott wisely said, “Clutter and mess show us that life is being lived…Tidiness makes me think of held breath, of suspended animation… Perfectionism is a mean, frozen form of idealism, while messes are the artist’s true friend. What people somehow forgot to mention when we were children was that we need to make messes in order to find out who we are and why we are here.

  • Simple Living

    How to start an urban homestead in 5 easy steps

    There is something about my 30s that made me rethink the way I wanted to live my life. Much of that has revolved around living simply and dreaming about living on a homestead. Here’s the thing though I don’t have land or pasture. In fact, I live straddling the town and countryside and the land is ridiculously priced to build on. That aside I actually really like where I live. I like our lifestyle so creating our own full-blown homestead is also not for me either. Not at the moment at least. So what next?

    Wanting to live a different way of life

    We’ve been living a simple life since the birth of our first child over 4 years ago now; switching off from the mainstream of modern society and ultimately living differently than the norm. We eat ethically raised meat from regenerative farms, we take a holistic approach to our health (unless necessary), we live and eat seasonally, we grow our own food on our allotment, we educate our children outside of the school system and we don’t live the fast-paced life modern society tries to push on us. Some might call me a bit hippy but it’s not even that. More and more people are opting out of the rat race and embracing slowing down and creating a simpler lifestyle. 

    Simple as in simplicity, not ease

    Now sometimes there is a disconnect when people think about slowing down and running a homestead. The latter is obviously a lot of hard work, but I think it’s important to remember that slow and simple isn’t supposed to equate to easy. Instead embracing the slower or traditional way of doing things. Creating an urban homestead, a regular homestead, or growing your own vegetable garden isn’t always easy but it is fun. Working hard on something you love doesn’t make it the opposite of a slow and simple life. In fact, I would argue that it is the very essence of what builds that simple life you desire.

    Creating an urban homestead

    Now most of us don’t have the luxury of buying land or living on a small farm or smallholding. But as I have been creating for our family over the last four years, you can create your own urban homestead in the space you have. Whether you live in a flat, apartment, or house, there are many ways that you can embrace an urban homestead life. I currently live in a split-level flat on the edge of the countryside and the outdoor space I have at home is a balcony. While I don’t have a farm or small homestead, I have creatively crafted my own urban homestead. Whether you live in a flat or house, I want to help you do the same. Today I am sharing my top five tips for creating your perfect urban homestead in the space you have available. Let’s start living that life you dream of without breaking the bank.

    sourdough starter urban homestead
    wooden sign with the number 44 on on our allotment
    homemade cleaner in brown amber bottle

    1. Create your garden & grow your own food

    Grow your own produce

    If you have outdoor space, no matter how large or small, then create your own garden and think about ways you can start to grow your own produce. I grew solely on my balcony for five years. I was creative with the space I had and I was able to grow an abundance of produce. A year ago we also got ourselves an allotment, a small piece of land we rent for growing our own produce. Through this, we have been able to really level up and be more sufficient in the food we are able to grow. 

    Evaluate your space and consider what you would benefit from most, and what would work in the space you have. If you have a garden you might find it possible to do more extensive growing compared to a balcony. If you are limited on space you can consider putting your name down on a list for an allotment. Allotment lists can be long so I definitely recommend doing that sooner rather than later. In the meantime, you can start growing in the space you have available.

    You can absolutely grow on a balcony

    Growing on a balcony or in a small space can be incredibly rewarding. My advice is don’t count yourself out just because you think your space isn’t big enough. Anything you are able to grow is amazing and one less thing you have to purchase from the supermarket. All you need to do is be smart with the space you have. I recommend a small, plastic greenhouse (remember to weigh it down) to start off your seeds and young plants. Investigate what would work best in a small space or even in containers. Pre 2022, I did all of my growing in containers and pots on my balcony. I grew things like Strawberries, Beetroot, Peppers, Tomatoes, Radishes, Potatoes, Cucumbers, and lettuce. There was so much joy being creative in a small space.

    The allotment plot
    The plot at golden hour
    Shed at my allotment
    Our free 6×4 shed
    Parnsip seeds in my hands
    Parsnips ready to sow

    2. Create Compost & save your kitchen scraps

    If you have a bigger space in your garden or at an allotment then get creating a compost heap. This will help you create your own compost and reduce food waste. It is a great addition to your urban homestead. You can use your coffee grounds and food scraps to feed your compost heap. It’s not really possible on a balcony, but anywhere where you can put a compost heap onto the earth is a winner. You can make your own compost heap from wooden palettes or purchase ready-made bins. Whatever works for you I think you will find a compost heap a valuable addition to your urban homestead.

    And if you can’t have a compost heap?

    If you don’t have outside space see if your local council recycles food scraps or has a composting scheme. While you might not be able to have a physical compost heap you can certainly find ways to contribute to it.

    3. Buy local produce & regenerative meat

    Buying local is hugely helpful to the ecosystem, encouraging fewer food miles and enabling a more farm-to-fork culture. If you are urban homesteading then chances are that you aren’t raising your own meat. Search your local area for farms, farm shops, or farmers’ markets and see what produce you will regularly be able to source locally. Also, look into regenerative farms that may be able to provide you with the meat you require. If you’re a meat eater learning to eat nose to tail is another great way to ensure you are eating all of the animal. It will also help you in getting some of the greatest, most bioavailable ingredients there are. Farms often provide seasonal produce too and again will be from either their farm or other local farms. Shopping at a farm shop, and buying quality produce and regenerative meat can be more expensive, however even if you just swap a small amount, if it’s affordable, you will be making a positive contribution.

    4. Transform your kitchen into an urban homestead kitchen

    The heart of the (urban) homestead is in the kitchen. I am here to tell you that it’s time to transform your kitchen into a homesteaders kitchen. Now don’t worry, it doesn’t require any kind of refurbishment. Instead here are a few tips to embrace your urban homestead kitchen:

    Learning to cook from scratch

    Learning to cook from scratch is the heart of the homestead kitchen, so go ahead and start that sourdough starter, and learn how to bake sourdough bread, sourdough discard crackers, and pizza. Pull out recipes for meals you know your family will love and most of all, have fun!

    homestead kitchen
    sourdough urban homestead
    sourdough pancakes urban homestead

    Preserving your food

    Preserving your fresh produce is key in any kind of homestead kitchen, so you will want to learn how to utilise your freezer. Another thing I couldn’t live without is my dehydrator. It’s always the thing people ask me most about whether it is worth investing in. Learning canning techniques and making produce shelf stable is something else you will want to learn. This will ensure you are getting the best out of the produce you have.

    We only live in a small home but we invested in a small chest freezer last year. It has been a game-changer, allowing us to preserve more produce and especially enabling us to buy meat in bulk. 

    Fill your pantry (or cupboard) with shelf-stable items or tins. Buying in bulk, if you have the space, can help keep your costs low. It is great for those cupboard staples you use in meals frequently. We always pick up local honey in bulk so we have a constant supply. 

    5. Embrace a simple homesteaders handmade home

    Another key to the urban homestead is creating a handmade home. Whether it be creating your own items, repairing what you have or creating products to use around your home. When we started living a more simplistic life we began to think about the things we use around our home and whether they fit with our lifestyle. When you start living more naturally you definitely call into question the items and products around your home. We now make our own washing-up liquid, hand soap, and cleaning products. We also have the intention of making our own laundry powder and dishwasher tablets soon too.

    Whether you are just starting out or consider yourself a more seasoned urban homestead, I hope you find these tips helpful. I hope too that it helps validate that your homestead work in important. Urban homesteading is often overlooked because you don’t have land or raising animals, but your work is still important.

    Do you have an urban homestead? I would love to hear from you in the comments, or follow along with our urban homestead on Instagram @lifeonplot44.