Osoji, a ritual that cleans spaces and minds

Japanese culture has wise practices that do us, no matter where in the world we live in.

Today we will talk about one of them, which, if we carry it out, will significantly improve our mood.

How many spaces do you have at home that you use rarely? How many of these gather objects you barely touch? Maybe it sounds familiar.

If so, welcome to the club: that small storage room in plain sight and filled of things that we can´t decide to throw away due to their sentimental value or out of negligence, is material ready for the Osoji. What is it about?

Although this ritual comes to life with greater strength at the end of each year, the Japanese recommend doing it regularly.

Osoji, which roughly translates to 'big cleaning,' suggests carrying out this activity thoroughly in the spaces where we spend the most time. This includes the home, the office, and other communal areas."

While Osoji primarily focuses on material cleaning, it doesn't neglect the spiritual aspect. In fact, it suggests doing this every day, leaving behind grudges, negative experiences, and people who don't bring positivity into our lives 

A family ritual

For the Japanese, this grand cleaning ritual should be carried out by all members of the household. The idea is to start in a clockwise direction and move from room to room. 

One should not move on to the next room without finishing the first. What goes to the trash is placed in bags and the donations, in boxes.

You should place special emphasis on forgotten corners. It's not advisable to leave empty bags, and you must focus on all objects that gather dust, such as lamps and comforters."

Osoji advocates for reutilization; therefore, it's time to mend what's damaged and has the potential for a second life. 

If your space encompasses two floors, always commence with the upper one. The ritual involves handling furniture and other objects with care, offering a quiet tribute to the effort it took to acquire them."

Don't forget about your closet. You've probably heard those who say that if you haven't worn it in a year, you'll never wear it again. 

It's time to take out and donate to those who truly need it. You'll make space for new clothing and also ensure easy access to the items you already own

Osoji is so comprehensive that the Japanese even go through all the papers and receipts that inevitably accumulate.

Check clothing pockets, your purses, your wallets and your desk: no matter how organized you are in your daily life, you'll find a lot to discard  

For this Japanese ritual to truly prove effective and distinct from routine cleaning, allocate an entire day to it—some might require even more. 

Save the floor for last, and when you're done, you'll be prepared to embrace a new day—or new year—with revitalized energy."