Seasonal cleaning is often associated with Spring, a time that more obviously depicts rebirth than other seasons. Yet, nothing would stop us from creating more chances for new beginnings for ourselves in every season of our lives. Many studies have strongly demonstrated the true power of a fresh start: people have an easier time breaking bad habits and switching up their routines when they move homes, change jobs, or simply redecorate. Think of the magic of New Year’s and the jolt of joy and motivation that comes with giving ourselves permission to create resolutions. If you find yourself stuck in a rut, create a new beginning for yourself and start anew. This fall season can be your chance to do just that!
At Senior Steps, we encourage our clients to follow a seasonal cleaning routine, whether on their own or with outside help. A decluttered space can prevent falls and injuries, practical organization can prevent those with memory problems from losing important documents or meds, and a clean environment allows for better hygiene and improved health. Below, we have compiled a short and simple list of additional ways you can reset to improve your physical and mental wellbeing.
Reconnect with your back-to-school days by using this fall season to reset your routines.
You don’t have to be enrolled in classes to go “back to school” shopping for a new notebook and some nice pens that will inspire you to write down new habits you would like to take up, track your progress, and journal for mental clarity. Use some of the back pages to draft up a list of all the things you would like to change about your life, then only keep the ones that truly matter and bring you joy. When making a change, the most important thing is to keep it simple and achievable, so choose 3 to 5 habits to be consistent with and create a tracking system.
Follow a more autumnal diet.
Whether you cook for yourself, have a meal plan subscription, or like to order out, adjusting your diet to the current season is a health-conscious approach that encourages you include seasonal, often locally grown, abundant foods in your diet. Seasonal produce is cheaper, healthier, and friendlier to the environment, and seasonal dishes are conducive to creating season-specific memories and switching up your usual favorites for more variety.
Prioritize your health.
Take this time to schedule any due health check-ups, address any issues that may be arising, and find out what you could be doing better for your body. Talk to your doctor about recommended workouts or supplements to include in your new lifestyle. Because fall tends to be a slower season, you can also take this opportunity to prioritize your sleep. Studies show that adequate sleep can prevent a myriad of health issues down the line, including problems with blood pressure, cardiovascular problems, and even dementia symptoms.
Declutter and clean your home.
Take a day or a weekend to deep clean hard-to-reach areas of each room, get rid of clothes you don’t wear, organize your pantry, and go through any mail and important documents that require your attention. A decluttered home means a decluttered mind!
Redecorate for the season.
Once you have completed your seasonal cleaning, hit up your favorite home goods store or thrift shop and pick up some new art pieces, seasonal decorations, or scented candles to transform your space on a budget. Switch out your bedding and throw pillows – you might even have some lying around! Your space will feel brand new and give you a fresh perspective and renewed motivation.
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Senior Steps is a full-service geriatric care management company offering top-quality, personalized care to elderly clients on Boston’s South Shore. We offer free consultations, so call us today at 617-405-8796 or e-mail us at consultations@seniorsteps.org if you would like to chat about how we can help you or an elderly loved one with medical, financial, or legal advocacy, or activities of daily living.
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