Hello!
Lately I’ve been pondering this idea of less is more. For me it means more freedom, better health, helping the planet and finally- personal alignment. Keep reading to understand why, along with some tips on how you can begin implementing this in your life now.
And if you have a second or feel inspired I would love to hear what you think about this concept and how you’ve implemented it into your life. Hit reply and let me know!
THE WHY BEHIND “LESS IS MORE”
Here are some reasons why a “less is more” approach is best:
#1- Home Size
When we work with clients on their existing space, many times we see unused rooms in large homes and apartments. As time goes on, these become spaces we tend to avoid or don’t want to spend time in because they’re reminders of a space we haven’t tended too or made use of. Energetically we know that where energy flows, attention goes. So these unused spaces tend to become stagnant, energetic drains instead of rooms that inspire and nurture us.
So not only are we paying for space we aren’t using, they also tend to have a negative impact on us AND we’re paying for utilities such as HVAC and electricity to light, cool or heat them.
#2- More Time
When we have A LOT of things we also have to spend A LOT of time managing them. A great example is kids toys that are only used for a couple of weeks and then left to collect dust in playrooms. As more and more toys pile up we have to make space for new ones. Time is spent organizing, editing and sifting through them and then taking them to a donation center.
Another example is clothes. Every Fall and Spring I change my clothes out and as I have gotten better at buying less clothes, it takes less time to sort through them and there are less things to give away which in turn gives me back more time.
And in a society where no one seems to have enough time, this is a simple way to get more time back.
#3- Help The Environment
Both of these things help the environment by reducing the materials and energy needed to build and maintain bigger homes and apartments, and by reducing the amount of things we purchase and then eventually throw away.
THE HOW BEHIND “LESS IS MORE”
When you go to buy something new, stop and ask yourself these questions:
1. Am I in a bad mood and buying something simply to feel better in the present moment?
A lot of the time we buy things because we feel down. And while something new can spark momentary joy, it never gives us everlasting happiness or peace. So before buying something it’s always great to check in to see how you’re feeling.
2. Does it REALLY spark joy?
This advice from Marie Kondo has been a game changer for me. I use it all the time and it really helps clarify if I should buy something. I also ask myself will I use/wear this often. If the answer is YES then I buy it guilt free.
3. How long will it last?
There is a LOT to choose from when shopping these days. Similar to ‘fast fashion’, the same idea also applies to home goods. Before buying something, stop and evaluate whether this is something seasonal that will be used for a short amount of time and then be thrown away or need to be stored. Really feel the item and read the label to see what it’s made of. Will it break easily or fall apart quickly?
4. Do I have a space in my home for this?
A lot of the time I will fall in love with something- a piece of art, a throw or an object. Every time I ask myself- where will this go? And if I don’t have space for it- I don’t buy it. Why? Because I know eventually, the momentary joy of having it will fade when I get home and have to force it into a spot that doesn’t make sense or that blocks flow. Or worse, I tuck it away in a closet with the price tag still on it!
Gala Magriñá Design works with clients that understand the importance of creating a beautiful space and want to work with a no-nonsense design team that is able to clearly chart the best way forward. What separates or approach from other designers is our extensive knowledge of how people live and how best to create a customized space that nurtures that. We aim to merge cool and beautiful interiors with a holistic, mindful and intuitive approach to design that results in powerful, healthy spaces that elevate and transform people’s lives. For more information please visit www.galamagrinadesign.com.