Even though the chilly temperatures might have you thinking otherwise in the Philly area, the seasons are turning and Spring is making itself known with flowering trees, bright daffodils and sunsets that don’t happen until after 7pm. In many cultures, Spring is a time of renewal, of cleansing and planting seeds for what we wish to flourish in the rest of the year

If you’re feeling more connected to the energy of a disheveled bear than ready to take on the world, do not fear. I’d like to invite you to think of this time of year as a gentle reawakening. An opportunity to take stock and clear away what is no longer serving you (both energetically and physically) to make room for the fresh and new.

Here are a few suggestions to help you move from sleepy and disoriented waking bear-mode to light on your feet, specially tailored for highly sensitive souls. 

Declutter Your Physical Space

Start your spring cleaning journey by decluttering just one part of a room, like your desk or your night stand. Clutter can create visual noise and contribute to feelings of overwhelm for HSPs.  Sort through items and ask yourself if they serve a purpose or bring you joy. Donate or discard things that no longer serve you. 

Create a Tranquil Environment

Highly sensitive individuals thrive in environments that are calm and soothing. Think soft lighting, natural materials, well-organized spaces. Again, you can start small – use essential oils or candles with calming scents like lavender or chamomile or try adding a new, colorful blanket to your favorite reading chair.

Make time for reflection

Spring is a great time for reflecting on where you’ve been, where you are now and where you’d like to go. What lessons are you taking away from the colder months? What daily habits and routines feel like they are supporting you and which ones are dragging you down? This can be a great opportunity for some journaling. I like to consider different “domains” of my life such as work, downtime, primary relationships and creativity and ask these questions:

• How important is this domain to me right now?
• Is the amount of time I’m spending in this domain reflecting how important it is to me? If not, what is one small action I can take to nurture it more regularly?
• What are the qualities I want to call in more often in this domain (for example, calm, confidence, ease)? What am I wanting to lighten my grip on (for example, perfectionism, self-judgment)?

Limit Digital Clutter

I don’t need to tell you that there is a lot going on in the digital spaces many of us inhabit for hours a day. For any brain, but especially the highly sensitive brain, it can feel like all too much to take in. You might get curious about how to create a more intentional and mindful relationship with technology. Take time to declutter your digital space by unsubscribing from unnecessary emails, opting out of push notifications, and setting boundaries around screen time. 

Take a Relationship Inventory

Setting boundaries is essential for HSPs to protect their energy and well-being. Use spring cleaning as an opportunity to evaluate the quality of your relationships. Who are the people who you feel a reciprocity with, and what interactions leave you feeling depleted?  Consider saying no to activities or interactions that drain you emotionally and prioritize relationships and interactions that replenish your energy.

Seek Deeper Support

Just because winter is coming to an end doesn’t mean that you’re feeling all bright and sunny inside. Sometimes, the nicer weather can highlight the places inside of us where we’re struggling. Spring can be a great time to pursue therapy that encourages you to go deep and clear away stuck and stagnant energy in a gentle and nourishing way. EMDR and IFS therapy in Philadelphia can help you level up for the new season ahead. Curious to know more? Click here to schedule a free consultation.