A new way to live green: 6 steps to minimalism
I can't claim that I live totally “green.” In fact, I don't use “green” very often to describe my way of life. It's partially due to the fact that I'm wary of “green washing” – clever marketing and public relations techniques used to deceive us into believing a company's products or policies are environmentally friendly. Instead, I take living green to mean living minimally.
Being a minimalist means having only the essential possessions – clothes, furniture, books, stuff. Some may think living with so few things is cold and austere, and yet my experience with minimalism is one of spaciousness and freedom. Not only does having less create space physically and mentally because there is less in view to distract me, fewer possessions mean fewer things to look after and care for. As a result, owning less frees up time and money, and by consuming less I re-use more, which is green in its own way!
Where to begin?
There are varying degrees to minimalism, and like all things, you can start little by little. There is no definitive guide to becoming a minimalist, and below are some steps that can lead you in the right direction.
One room at a time: Simplifying doesn't only have to happen when you move. Instead, pick a room that you would like to transform into a calm space. It's best to start with a personal or common space despite how much you might want to start with your partner's or children's space!
Furniture: What piece(s) of furniture can you get rid of it without overly sacrificing comfort? There will certainly be an adjustment period. If it won't be traumatizing then it's worth the sacrifice!
Clear floors and surfaces: Apart from plants, if you have books, magazines and CDs stacked, can they be donated or recycled instead? Eventually, your floors and surfaces should be free of any storage.
Out-of-sight, out-of-mind storage: Store the things you do decide to keep in drawers and on shelves. This makes for a clear and peaceful mind. No space? De-clutter your storage areas, too!
Clear walls: Hanging too many pieces of artwork can be distracting, and essentially takes away from the value of the art. What are you one or two favorite pieces? Keep those and find a new home for the rest.
Simplify: Warm up the ambience by using a vase with flowers or personal photos on the walls as decoration. Use classic, solid colored curtains, blinds and coverings for your windows and furniture.
After reading these few simple steps, what might be your first minimalist gesture? Give it a go, and then sit back and take in the clutter-free, calm space... Before getting rid of more stuff or moving on to another room!
