Empty Hand

I hear your sorrow in your words.

As you mourn what once was yours, Happiness,

Now lost and gone Leaving you with a heart so forlorn.

The coldness creeps into your days.

A chill that never goes away

Eternity looms in front of you.

And the weight of it feels so true.

You search and search for what was lost.

But it seems that Happiness has been tossed.

Far away from where you stand

Leaving you with an empty hand

But do not give up, my dear friend.

For Happiness can be found again.

Though it may seem out of sight

It still exists within your own light.

It's okay to grieve what was before

But don't let it keep you from exploring more.

New joys can still be found.

And with them, Happiness can abound.

So take a step and look around.

See the beauty that surrounds

Open up your heart once more.

And let Happiness come to your door.

The Power of Mood Journaling

How to Track and Improve Your Emotional Wellness

Mood journaling is a simple yet powerful tool that can help individuals better understand and manage their emotions. It involves regularly recording your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours in a journal or notebook. Tracking your moods over time allows you to gain insight into patterns and triggers and develop strategies to improve your emotional well-being.

Why Mood Journaling is Beneficial

1. Increased self-awareness: Mood journaling can help you become more aware of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. This increased self-awareness can help you identify patterns and triggers contributing to negative moods.
2. Improved emotional regulation: By tracking your moods over time, you can develop strategies to manage and improve your emotional well-being. For example, if you feel more anxious after spending time on social media, you may decide to limit your social media usage.
3. Increased insight: Mood journaling can also help you gain insight into the underlying causes of your emotions. For example, suppose you notice that you tend to feel depressed after specific events or interactions. In that case, you may begin to identify patterns that can help you understand the underlying causes of your depression.
4. Helps in therapy: Mood journaling can be a valuable tool. It can provide insight into patterns and triggers that may be addressed in therapy sessions and serve as a record of progress.

How to Mood Journal

1. Choose a journal or notebook: You can use a traditional paper journal or a digital journaling app. The important thing is to choose a format that you will be comfortable using regularly.
2. Set aside time to journal: Set aside a regular time each day. It could be first thing in the morning, last thing at night, or at a time that works best for you.
3. Be specific: When journaling, describe your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Instead of just writing "I feel sad," write "I feel sad because I had an argument with my friend."
4. Track patterns and triggers: Pay attention to patterns and triggers in your moods. For example, do you feel anxious after spending time on social media? Do you feel depressed after specific events or interactions?
5. Use your journal as a tool for self-reflection. Reflect on your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours and consider how they may impact your emotional well-being.
6. Seek help if necessary: If your mood journaling highlights patterns and triggers that negatively impact your emotional well-being, it may be helpful to seek professional help. A therapist or counsellor can provide guidance and support as you work to improve your emotional well-being.

  Mood journaling is a simple yet powerful tool that helps individuals better understand and manage their emotions. It involves regularly recording your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours in a journal or notebook. Tracking your moods over time allows you to gain insight into patterns and triggers and develop strategies to improve your emotional well-being. It's important to remember that it's not just about writing down feelings but also about reflecting and seeking help if necessary.

A Guide to Death Cleaning, Choosing Minimalism, and Decluttering Your Life

Death Cleaning: A Path to Introspection and Self-Reflection

Death is often considered taboo, something we don't like to think about or discuss. However, the process of death cleaning - decluttering and organising one's possessions to make it easier for loved ones to deal with after one's passing - can catalyse a deeper level of self-reflection and introspection. 

As I have begun the process of death cleaning myself, I have found that it has forced me to confront my own mortality and consider the legacy I want to leave behind. Here are some of the insights I have gained through this process:

• Prioritising what matters One of the most significant benefits of death cleaning is that it helps you prioritise what truly matters in your life. As you sort through your possessions, ask yourself, "Does this item bring me joy or serve a purpose?" If the answer is no, it may be time to let it go. This process can extend beyond physical possessions to all areas of your life. By focusing on what truly brings you joy and fulfilment, you can make more intentional choices about spending your time and energy.
• Recognising the value of experiences As I have sorted through my possessions, I have realised that the memories of experiences with loved ones are far more valuable than any material possession. As a result, I have consciously created meaningful experiences and built lasting memories with those I care about. By prioritising experiences over possessions, I can connect with others on a deeper level and create more meaningful relationships.

Preparing for the future Death Cleaning has made me more aware of the need to plan for the future, both in terms of my own end-of-life planning and preparing my loved ones for my passing. By taking steps to prepare, I can ease the burden on my loved ones during a difficult time.

• This can include creating a will, discussing end-of-life wishes with family members, and making financial arrangements to ensure your loved ones are cared for after you are gone.

• Gratitude for the present Reflecting on death has also made me more aware of the preciousness of life and the importance of gratitude for the present moment. I can find joy and mean daily by focusing on the present and practising gratitude.

• This can include taking time to appreciate the small things in life, such as a beautiful sunset or a good cup of coffee, and expressing gratitude for the people in my life who bring me happiness and support.

 Death cleaning may seem like a daunting and unpleasant task. Still, it can be a powerful tool for self-reflection and introspection. We can live a more meaningful and fulfilling life by prioritising what truly matters, recognising the value of experiences, preparing for the future, and practising gratitude for the present. Death cleaning, decluttering and organising one's possessions can lead to deeper self-reflection and introspection. It allows us to confront our own mortality and prioritise what truly matters in our lives. Through this process, we can learn to recognise the value of experiences over material possessions, prepare for the future, and express gratitude for the present moment. 

Additionally, death cleaning can be a path towards living a minimalist lifestyle. By letting go of possessions that no longer serve a purpose, we can simplify our lives and focus on the things that bring us joy and fulfilment. Living with less can help us reduce stress and increase our overall well-being.

Through my experience with death cleaning, I have learned that living a minimalist lifestyle is not about depriving oneself of possessions. Instead, it's about letting go of the excess and focusing on what is truly important. It's about creating space in our lives for the things that matter most - our relationships, experiences, and personal growth.

Living a minimalist lifestyle has taught me to be intentional with my choices and to value quality over quantity. It has allowed me to appreciate what I have rather than constantly striving for more. I have found greater clarity, peace, and contentment by living with less.

 Death cleaning is not just a practical process of preparing for the end of life. Instead, it can be a powerful tool for personal growth and a more intentional, minimalist lifestyle. By letting go of the excess and focusing on what truly matters, we can simplify our lives and find greater meaning and purpose.

Here are some additional tips for those interested in pursuing a minimalist lifestyle:

• Start small - It can be overwhelming to declutter an entire house simultaneously. Instead, start with one room or even one category of possessions, such as clothing or books. This will allow you to ease into the process and build momentum.
• Keep what brings you joy - When deciding what to keep and what to let go of, focus on what brings you joy and serves a purpose in your life. If an item doesn't bring you happiness or serve a practical function, consider letting it go.
• Consider the environmental impact - Minimalism is about simplifying our lives and reducing our environmental impact. For example, consider donating or selling items in good condition rather than throwing them away.
• Invest in quality over quantity - Instead of buying cheap, low-quality items that will quickly wear out and need to be replaced, invest in high-quality items that will last longer and serve you better in the long run.
• Embrace experiences over material possessions - Instead of accumulating more possessions, focus on building meaningful experiences with loved ones. Whether taking a trip together or simply spending quality time together, these experiences will bring more lasting happiness than any material possession ever could.

By embracing minimalism, we can simplify our lives, reduce our impact on the environment, and focus on what truly brings us joy and fulfilment. It's a process that requires intentionality and mindfulness, but the rewards are well worth it.

Sorting through the possessions of a loved one who has passed away can be complex and emotional. Here are some tips to help you through the process:

• Give yourself time - Sorting through a loved one's possessions can be emotionally and physically overwhelming. Don't rush the process; give yourself time to go through everything.
• Start with the easy stuff - Begin with items that are easier to sort, such as clothing or books. This will help you build momentum and feel accomplished as you progress.
• Involve family and friends - Enlist the help of family and friends to sort possessions together. This can provide emotional support and help you decide what to keep and let go of.
• Consider the wishes of your loved one - If your loved one left behind specific instructions or requests for their possessions, honour their wishes as much as possible.
• Keep sentimental items - It's essential to keep items that hold sentimental value, even if they don't serve a practical purpose. These items can provide comfort and serve as a connection to your loved one.
• Donate or sell items - Consider donating or selling items still in good condition. This can provide a sense of closure and ensure the possessions are used well.
• Take breaks when needed - Sorting through possessions can be emotionally taxing. Take breaks when needed to rest, reflect, and recharge.

Remember that everyone grieves differently, and there is no right or wrong way to go through sorting through a loved one's possessions. Be gentle with yourself and allow yourself to feel a range of emotions as you work through the process.

Tips for Death Cleaning: 

• Prioritise what matters
• Recognise the value of experiences
• Prepare for the future
• Practice gratitude for the present
• Give yourself time to process emotions

Tips for Choosing Minimalism:

• Start small
• Keep what brings you joy
• Consider the environmental impact
• Invest in quality over quantity
• Embrace experiences over material possessions

Tips for Decluttering:

• Donate or sell items in good condition
• Let go of items that no longer serve a purpose
• Sort through possessions with family and friends
• Take breaks when needed
• Keep sentimental items

By following these tips, you can simplify your life, reduce your impact on the environment, and focus on what truly brings you joy and fulfilment. Remember that these processes take time and require intentionality, but the rewards are well worth it.

Hashtgs: #deathcleaning #minimalism #decluttering

Parentless

Life was once a simple stroll,

With footsteps light and sure,

But now it seems I'm walking on hands,

And the path is not secure.

The world around me has been flipped,

And all that was once familiar,

Is now a jumbled mess,

As if my life's in disrepair.

I try to keep my head held high,

And put one hand before the other,

But it's hard to find my footing,

As I navigate this new cover.

Sometimes it feels like I'm tumbling down,

And my grip is slipping fast,

And I'm just barely hanging on,

As if life's a trial to last.

But still, I try to move ahead,

With determination deep inside,

Hoping that each step I take,

Will bring me closer to the light.

I know that change can be a gift,

A chance to grow and learn,

But it's hard to find the silver lining,

When the world around me's turned.

So, I'll keep on walking, hand by hand,

With a faith that never fades,

Hoping that my journey,

Will lead me to a better place.

For though it's tough to see the way,

And the path is dark and steep,

I know that I'll keep moving on,

And the climb will not defeat.

Clutter-Free Home and Clear Mind

21 Micro-Habits   

Keeping a clean and organized space is not just about making your home look nice; it can also significantly impact your mental health. By developing micro-habits and following them consistently, you can keep your space tidy and your mind clear. Here are 21 micro-habits that can help you achieve this:

1. Make Your Bed The simple act of making your bed first thing in the morning can set the tone for the rest of the day. It gives you a sense of accomplishment, and returning to a tidy bed at night can be calming.
2. Put Away Your Coat and Shoes By putting away your coat, shoes, and other accessories, you avoid tripping hazards and create a clear path in your home. It can also reduce feelings of anxiety and overwhelm caused by clutter.
3. Recycle the Junk Mail Don't let unnecessary items clutter your space. Recycling junk mail immediately helps to keep your home clear of unwanted paper clutter.
4. Put Clean Dishes Away Leaving clean dishes on the counter or in the sink creates visual clutter and can make it difficult to focus. By putting away clean dishes, you free up valuable counter space and make meal preparation more efficient.
5. Don't Leave Clothes on the Floor or Furniture Dirty clothes belong in the laundry pile, while clean clothes should be put back in the closet or dresser. It helps to reduce visual clutter and promotes a sense of calm.
6. Put Away Your Keys and Change By designating a specific drop-zone for your keys and chan, you avoid the stress and frustration of misplacing them.
7. Don't Leave Out Your Bathroom Toiletries Keeping your bathroom counter clear and organized can create a sense of serenity and calmness, especially when getting ready in the morning.
8. Put Office/School Items Away By putting away office or school items, you avoid creating a work-life imbalance and help to maintain a clear and focused mind.
9. Empty the Car When You Arrive Home By taking everything out of the car as soon as you get home, you avoid creating clutter and confusion, which can negatively impact your mental state.
10. Wash Snack Dishes/Cups Immediately: Washing snack dishes and cups immediately after use avoids unnecessary messes and stress caused by dirty dishes.
11. Store Kitchen Appliances Keeping small kitchen appliances like toasters and blenders out of sight reduces visual clutter and promotes a clear and organized kitchen.
12. Clean Up After Playing with Toys or Gadgets By putting away toys and gadgets after playing, you avoid creating visual clutter that can cause anxiety and overwhelm.
13. Tear Down Cardboard Boxes Flattening cardboard boxes frees up valuable space and promotes a clear and organized living area.
14. Put away the Remote Controls: By keeping remote controls in a designated spot, you can avoid the stress and frustration of not being able to find them when needed.
15. Return Chargers and Cords to Drawers By keeping chargers and cords out of sight, you avoid creating visual clutter and promote a clear and organized space.
16. Fold Your Blanket After Use By folding your blanket after use, you avoid creating visual clutter and promote a sense of calm and order.
17. Empty Full Trash Cans/Bins: By removing the trash immediately when it's complete, you avoid creating unpleasant smells and messy living spaces.
18. Return Reading Materials to Their Designated Home By returning reading materials like books and magazines to their designated spot, you avoid creating visual clutter and promote a clear and organized space.
19. Throw Expired Food Keeping expired food out of your fridge, and pantry helps to promote a clear and organized space and avoids the stress and frustration of finding expired food.