Moving and Downsizing Mindfully
This weekend I am moving from a 2700 sf house to a 700 sf condo. This requires much decision making about what to take with me, what to sell, and what to give away. The stress of having to decide what to do with every item that you own can be daunting. It can also be liberating. Having less house and less yard to maintain feels less burdensome.
At this point in my life, I am fully embracing the concept of less is more. It feels freeing to be letting go of things I don’t need or don’t want anymore. How many kitchen items does a person actually use on a regular basis? Surprisingly, not many. How can I condense my art and weaving supplies and organize them in a way that they are usable? How do I create space for a home office and studio, and still have room just to live? It’s a challenge, but I enjoy space planning and creating healing environments, something I have been unable to do in my home for a very long time.
For the first time since I was in my twenties, this space I create will be all mine. All mine. I can do whatever I want with it. I can choose the furniture, hang the art that I’ve collected, and arrange things in a way that suits me. I can craft a space that supports my needs and my unique nervous system without compromise. Yes, it’s a lot to manage, and I will be downsizing the stuff that remains in the house for awhile yet. This weekend, though, the shift begins of where I live and how I live.
I’ve decided that this process is more about facing the next era of life consciously and mindfully, and even though there is change and loss, I can adapt and I can cope. I’m not afraid of more solitude. I’m not afraid of making unilateral decisions. I can take care of myself, and I trust that I will figure out how to manage in a new environment. I feel grateful that I’ve arrived at this point feeling equipped to do this, and that putting in the hard work of learning to prioritize myself has made this possible.
There’s no way to arrive at a life transition like this without having many emotions, both positive and negative. Sitting with those feelings is hard, and resisting the urge to push them down is challenging. I’m trying to view the logistical part of moving as therapeutic and symbolic – taking with me what is necessary and supportive, and letting the rest of it go.