What to do about “hoarding”

I have rec’d a lot of responses to my hoarding posts. I’m assuming that they’re from folks who are aware that they have a problem with acquiring and letting go of “stuff” or know someone who does. There is so much suffering around “stuff”. In any case, when we recognize what’s going on, we’re in a position to do something about it. Recognizing that help is needed is a...

A “hoarding” story with a Happy ending...

  A young woman had responded awhile ago to my blog post on "hoarding" saying that it was a description of her and her family.  Help!   I was in this woman's home and worked with her family.  She has 3 children under the age of 4 (including twin sons about 6 months old). And she lives in a compact space with limited storage options.  So, lots of reasons to be stuck in overwhelm....

There’s $$ in Your Stuff!

  OK, besides creating a clean, functional and attractive environment, there is value (pun intended) in clearing out and releasing your stuff.   Stuff can be sold. There are folks who can use what you don't want or need. Sites like Used Victoria (Craigs List & Kijiji) help you sell your stuff.   Stores like Good Things (Oak Bay Avenue) and Second Chance (James Bay) etc. offer local places to consign...

Dealing with clutter/hoarding using EFT!

OK, so this is something new! I've been using EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique or "tapping") for some time in my personal life.  As I've had counsellor/coaching training, this kind of approach using Energy Psychology is something I'm drawn to. I've found EFT works on many issues.  So, why not on clutter or hoarding?  Check the link below to find out more!  You'll be...

The Give-Away Weekend

Here is a great idea to get rid of stuff and help others – the Give-Away Weekend (or day, I suppose).  This kind of event takes away all the hassle of a yard sale while challenging folks to "release their stuff".  Ottawa encourages residents to place items that are "give aways" on the curb!    ...

A hoarding story….with a not happy ending

  OK, so I was in the home of a hoarder the other day.  Oh, my.  So much stuff – in every room.  It was a young family with young children.  As soon as I walked in the home, I could see why the parents were stressed.  Stuff everywhere.  There was no place on the kitchen counters to put one more thing. The family couldn't eat at the kitchen table – it was full of stuff....

Get rid of stress. Get rid of your extra STUFF!

We can, and must, find ways to live that honour our spirit.  We can only take so much stress.  It's killing us!  To optimize health, we need to make sure our body is in relaxation response as much as possible.  Write a prescriptions for yourself – What do you need to do so your body can heal itself?  What are the beliefs that you operate under?  Remember – if a belief restricts...

Just get started!

I know it's hard to start – it can seem overwhelming.  On the website, I advise getting some containers (boxes, bags) and paper & markers for signs.   START the organizing process by being prepared.  Then take those containers (usually marked KEEP, DONATE, TOSS) and start with one area (a small self-contained area) like a closet, drawer, cardboard box full of stuff.   Then devote some...