Spring Reset: Creating Space for What Matters

At Reia, we believe that care isn’t just about self-care—it’s about the spaces we live in, the rituals we return to, and the little shifts that make life feel lighter. That’s why when Shannon Murphy, a professional organiser, popped into our world after our call for contributors, we knew we had to share her work with you.

Spring cleaning often feels like a seasonal task—a one-time reset before we slip back into old habits. But what if we looked at it differently? Decluttering isn’t just about clearing out—it’s about making space for what truly serves you.

In this guest piece, Shannon shares her approach to spring cleaning as a ritual, not just a task—one that goes beyond the season and helps create a home that feels calm, intentional, and filled with what you actually love and use.

 

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A Spring Clean That Lasts – by Shannon Murphy

Spring cleaning is great for a refresh, but decluttering goes deeper—it shifts your relationship with the things you own. When we create space, we gain mental clarity, ease, and a sense of lightness that extends beyond the physical.

Instead of making it a once-a-year habit, I encourage you to think about your home as something to curate with care, rather than fill with things you think you "should" keep.

Where to Start When Decluttering Feels Overwhelming

If you don’t know where to begin, try one of these two approaches:

If that feels like too much, begin with a low-effort space—somewhere without sentimental items or tough decisions. Tackling a small area successfully builds confidence and momentum.

 

The ‘Bouncer at the Door’ Mindset

A clutter-free home isn’t just about tidying up—it’s about being intentional about what comes in. Before bringing in something new, ask yourself:

• Does this serve a purpose?
• Do I already own something similar?
• If this comes in, can something else go out?
• Is there a place for it?
  
  

Overconsumption affects our time, our energy, and the environment—learning to pause before acquiring something new is one of the most powerful habits we can build.

 

The ‘Just in Case’ Mentality—Why We Hold Onto Things We Don’t Need

• Just in case the other one breaks
• Just in case someone asks about a gift they gave you ten years ago
• Just in case you go skiing again (even though you hated it)
  

The reality? These situations rarely happen—and if they do, you can usually find another solution. Ask yourself:

• How likely is it that I’ll need this?
• If I did, could I easily replace or borrow one?
• Is my home a place to live or a storage unit for ‘maybe’ items?

 

Sustainable Swaps for a Lighter Home

Spring cleaning shouldn’t mean mindlessly throwing things away—it’s about being thoughtful with what stays and what goes. Here are a few ways to refresh your space without overconsumption:

Decanting: Store dry goods in glass jars or bathroom essentials in refillable bottles for a cleaner, more cohesive look.

Rearrange your furniture: Instead of buying something new, switch up your space to make it feel fresh again.

One in, one out: When bringing something new into your home, remove something else to keep balance.

Making Space for What Matters

A lighter home often leads to a lighter mind. The biggest reward in my work isn’t just the transformation of a space—it’s the shift in how people feel.

Once someone simplifies their home, they often start applying the same mindset to their schedule, habits, and outlook on life. The ripple effect is huge.

I’ve had clients tell me that instead of turning on the TV, their kids started doing arts and crafts in their newly refreshed playroom. These little shifts—where people start using their space in a more meaningful way—are what truly fuel my love of this work.

Find out more about my work at www.simplliving.co