In this season, we all focus on ways to revamp our existence. Spring Cleaning, Spring Break Vacations, and Easter Sunday all yield themselves to this process, nudging us to break free of weathered patterns and create a better version of ourselves. I find myself in the thick of this energetic shift as well, allowing myself to experience the growing pains knowing that a new and improved me is on the other side of the horizon.
Clear and Purge
I adore the book "The Magic of Tidying Up" by Marie Kondo. Her KonMari method of simplifying and organizing your space and belongings is heavily based on Feng Shui, an ancient Chinese art and science that teaches one how to balance and harmonize with the energies in any given space. On her Netflix show, "Tidy Up" she teaches everyday families how to select only items that "spark joy" to keep in their homes, while thanking discarded items for their service, then letting them go.
Spring cleaning is a cathartic ritual in itself. Sorting through items to keep and discard, cleaning floors and surfaces, smudging, and refreshing decor can symbolize the deeper, inner purge that is necessary for transformation. Your spaces are a reflection of your inner self; they can really show you areas in need of attention.
Simplifying your environment can create space for fresh energy to flow in, as unblocking a chakra can allow free flowing energy in our bodies. Intentional spring cleaning can assist in true renewal of mind, body and spirit.
Recharge
Spring Break makes us think of beach getaways, lighter layers, and the long awaited rooftop bar openings. If you're an educator like myself it's more of a Monopoly "Get Out Of Jail Free" card for one week!
We trudge through Winter looking forward to brighter days and a break from our routines. We look to fill up our vacation time with people and activities, yet we truly need and desire to rest.
In order to initiate positive change we must create time and space to rest and recharge ourselves. We spend most of our lives trying to meet the standard, or exceed expectations. By the time the physical body feels tiredness, the mind and spirit have already been overspent.
The current self care trend can sometimes leave out the importance of spiritual rest. This radical rest goes beyond the mani/pedi/massage and addresses the crucial need to "go within". Through meditation, prayer, yoga, etc. we ease into our spirit bodies and grant them much needed attention. We allow quiet space for fresh energy, ideas, and messages to appear.
This type of rest gives way to a refreshed state of being, rich with opportunity and new possibilities.
Reflect
The tale of resurrection is one that rings throughout the ages. Osiris(Horus), Tammuz, Dionysus, Attis, and Jesus all shared stories of dying and rising from the dead. Whatever individual beliefs we hold, humans are commonly inspired by the idea of rebirth. We live for the afterlife, the second chance, the renewal.
Death symbolizes extinction and destruction, as birth is to initiate or originate with newness. The path to becoming the best version of ourselves will inevitably begin with a death of some sort; the shedding away of what no longer serves us. This creates a fertile environment for new birth, or an evolution of self.
This Easter holiday, I find these truths especially resonant. I've always loved how the Easter egg serves as a reminder of new life. Each year, season, day, and breath are chances for renewal. This indeed sparks joy!
Wishing you a Happy Easter!
Maureen
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