The Language of Clutter

When I walk into a client’s home and I see bursting cupboards, piles of paper stacked around the house, messy desks, wallets that can’t close, and closets jam-packed with old clothes, I know my client feels stuck in many aspects of their lives. Constant untidiness is an obstacle. External clutter tells me that there is internal clutter because our surroundings are actually the projection of our inner world.

Throughout the last 15 years of working with hundreds and hundreds of clients, I have developed something I call, “the language of clutter.” Clutter talks to me depending on where it is, and what it is. However, like any language, we all must translate the meaning according to our personal perspective and our own life.

Below are eight clutter areas I often see:

1. The over-packed desk – a desk is symbolic of our careers, so the owner is most likely feeling stuck at work. After the desk is organized, the person is able to focus their awareness and receive clarity on future plans.
2. The disorganized kitchen – the cluttered kitchen speaks of emotional fragility or resentments not overcome. The message is to review emotions surrounding family relationships and to pay attention to what nurtures each member of the family.
3. Unorganized garage – when there are too many objects in the garage it implies fear of the new. The garage represents stability, security, and safety. After the garage is organized the overall sense of being grounded is felt.
4. Messy closet – what are you hiding? Know your truth and find the courage and strength to express it.
5. Clinging to old clothes – clothes represent our identity, and our ability to be seen. Give yourself permission to grow and change.
6. Books that build up – books can easily pile up. They represent our wisdom, passion, and what we deem to be important. Simply ask yourself what you believe and allow your belief systems to evolve and reflect your current life stage. Repurpose your old books to public libraries, schools, homeless shelters, and neighbors.
7. Cluttered wallet – if our wallets are unorganized and ignored, this could reflect the relationship we have with our finances. Revisit your finances and take the time to get all your accounts in order.
8. Unkempt bedroom – our bedroom, no matter where it might be in the house, will always represent our relationships, the intimacy we share with our partners, and the energy surrounding romance. Look at this room in your home and spend time reviewing any emotional clutter surrounding personal relationships.

A cluttered home can negatively influence the perception of our home and ultimately the satisfaction of life. A home isn’t just a place to live it is a broader constellation of experiences, meanings, and situations that shape the creation of our world. Cleaning up clutter can have a positive effect on all aspects of our lives.

Have any Feng Shui questions? Feel free to contact me at michelle@michellecromer.com and sign up for your Power Color or visit me on Facebook at Michelle Cromer Feng Shui.