By Alison Marks

Spring is the time when the world wakes up and takes a big breath, bringing everything to life. The season provides a great context for all of us to also breathe new life into our surroundings and routines. It's no accident that cultures all around the world have some version of "spring cleaning."

Here are five ideas for you to freshen the energy in your home - and your life!

De-clutter. There's no better way to create space for new growth than to get rid of old stuff that doesn't serve you anymore. See last year's Dwell Well article Six Steps to Clear Your Clutter for lots of ideas about how to do this.

Clean. I suggest using natural, non-toxic products. Though they don't provide the chemically cleansed feeling we've come to equate with "clean," they really do the trick. And nothing feels better than knowing that you and the environment are safer and healthier for it. Simply cleaning can give us the most bang for our buck when we want to wake up a space.

Open the windows! Let your home breathe in that fresh air.

Plants. Bring the outdoors in. Take stock of the plants you have in your home. Which ones are thriving? Which need some attention? Spring is a great time for re-potting. Which areas of your home could use a new splash of life? Plants are great - whatever attention you give to them comes back to you for years in the form of good, fresh life energy.

Intention. Bring your intentions for clarity, peace, and whatever else you want into your home metaphorically, through a personal ritual that is meaningful to you. Perhaps you like to sit just sit quietly alone after you've cleaned. Some like to sprinkle a solution of sea salt and water or burn sage around the house, paying special attention to doorways and windows. Others use sound to wake things up and bring clarity and peace, ringing bells around, especially in corners where energy might tend to become stagnant. Use these time-tested tricks, or create your own. The important thing is that it feels comfortable and cleansing for you.

Whatever large or small task you take on to bring that fresh spring energy into your home and your life, enjoy it! 

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