Spring cleaning is definitely the norm for some, and if you’re one of those folks, then I congratulate you. Really. I do. You’re among the more than 70% of Americans who engage in this seasonal activity.
But for someone like me – who despises any kind of housecleaning or yard work – it’s just another chore that I perpetually put off. Yes, I fall into the 5% of U.S. population that never spring cleans.
Yet, I do recognize that spring is a season of new beginnings, growth and transformation. As the days lengthen and temperatures rise, many people are inspired to embark on a deep cleaning of their homes, clearing out clutter and refreshing their living spaces.
But spring cleaning doesn’t have to be limited to physical areas. It can also be a powerful metaphor for clearing out the clutter in our minds, hearts and souls to make space for spiritual growth. I think all of us – definitely with my finger pointed at myself – could benefit from that. Christians are called in the book of Hebrews to “throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles.”
Just as our houses can slowly enter a state of chaos with accumulated possessions and unnecessary items, our minds and hearts can descend into disorder with negative thoughts, limiting beliefs and emotional baggage. Spring cleaning for the soul involves taking a deliberate and intentional approach to decluttering our internal spaces to create room for the same phenomena we currently see going on in nature.
One way to start this spring cleaning is to identify areas of our lives where we feel stuck or stagnant. That might involve examining our relationships, our work, our habits and/or our thought patterns. Consider Psalm 139:23-24: “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”
What am I holding onto that no longer serves me? What beliefs or assumptions am I ready to release? What do I need to forgive myself or others for? What habits or behaviors do I want to disengage from or change?
Once we’ve identified areas needing attention, we can begin to take action. This might involve practicing forgiveness, as Jesus taught. We may need to let go of old grudges or hurts and – yes – declutter our physical spaces to create a more peaceful and organized environment. We might also need to make intentional choices about our habits and behaviors, such as committing to daily meditation or exercise, or setting boundaries around work or social media use.
For the Christian, one important aspect of spring cleaning for the soul is the practice of self-compassion. As we engage in this process of letting go and releasing what no longer serves us, it’s important to avoid unwarranted self-judgment. As Romans 8:1 tells us, “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
We might remind ourselves that growth and transformation take time, and that it’s OK to experience setbacks along the way. And if we’re not in Christ Jesus, where there is no condemnation, now is the time to make sure that we do, indeed, move into that priceless relationship.
Another key aspect of spring cleaning for the soul is cultivating gratitude and appreciation. As we release old patterns, we make room for new experiences and perspectives. Focusing on what we’re grateful for and what brings us joy can create a positive mindset that supports spiritual growth and wellbeing. As Paul said in Philippians, let’s think on “whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable” and anything excellent or praiseworthy.
Ultimately, spring cleaning for the soul is deeply personal. It may involve individualized practices and strategies, depending on unique circumstances and needs. But at its core, the process is about creating space for something new that can flourish – deep within us.
Sallie Rose Hollis lives in Ruston and retired from Louisiana Tech as an associate professor of journalism and the assistant director of the News Bureau. She can be contacted at sallierose@mail.com.
