1. THE KONMARI METHOD
Let's begin with the one you’ll most likely know or at least have heard of – the KonMari Method by Marie Kondo. The KonMari Method is a popular organizing technique that focuses on decluttering and organizing based on the principle of only keeping items that ‘spark joy’, making it a part of your lifestyle, ensuring you will never again relapse to clutter.
2. OOSOUJI
Oosouji is the practice of a big year-end cleaning. It's more than just physical cleaning, closely associated with well-being, it’s an act of healing; cleansing the home as well as the mind and starting the new year fresh. The word Oosouji roughly translates to ‘big cleaning’. Traditionally, it takes place around December 28 every year. The aim is to welcome the new year, leaving behind any negative or unnecessary remnants of the past that are no longer useful. However, it can be carried out at any time.
3. 5 S FRAMEWORK
Originating from Japanese businesses, 5S stands for five words, Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain – a methodology that can easily be adapted for home use.
4. DANSHARI
Danshari, translates to ‘life cleanse’, and this method is all about refusing to bring in stuff you don't really need, getting rid of things that don't serve a purpose in a positive manner, and realizing that you're more than just the stuff you own. Encouraging a deeper reflection on our relationship with material possessions and supporting the whole less-is-more lifestyle.
5. MA
The concept of “Ma”, which roughly translates to “negative space”, gives a whole new meaning to the words “gap” or “pause”. When we are constantly buying things and filling our homes with new items, striving to be busy and fit in as many possible things within each day.
6. WABI-SABI
Wabi-Sabi is more of a philosophy than a decluttering technique, but it’s still relevant. It means embracing the beauty of imperfection. Appreciating the old and imperfect items, rather than buying new, flawless things. You can begin by aiming for minimalism, using storage solutions that maximize space, and being mindful of the items that truly bring joy and value to your life. Regularly reassessing will help keep on top of the organization to create that safe tranquil home your desire. The minimalism will only enhance the beauty of those imperfections and make them much more of feature. There are similarities amongst each technique and they closely tie in with well-being and cleansing your mind as well as your space. Even if you don’t follow each and every step to these techniques, keeping them in mind could positively affect your home and allow you to think a little more about how important a moment of calm can be.