Secrets of Zen Organization: Little-Known Tips for a Calming and Orderly Home
1. Create “Breathing” Zones for Smoother Circulation 🧘
We often talk about “storage zones”, but less about “breathing zones” , a concept from minimalist design. The idea is to keep certain spaces intentionally empty, around furniture for example, to offer a feeling of openness and lightness. By leaving spaces without furniture or objects, you allow your room to “breathe”, which promotes fluid circulation and a feeling of calm.
Bonus tip: Mark these breathing zones with a small rug or simple wall decoration to remind family members not to invade these spaces.
2. “3-2-1” Sorting Method: Getting Rid of the Unnecessary 🚮
Sorting is essential to avoid clutter. If the Marie Kondo method or pure minimalism doesn’t work for you, try the “3-2-1” technique for quick and effective sorting:
• 3 Uses : If an item hasn't been used at least three times in the last year, it might be time to donate it.
• 2 functions : Limit single-use items and favor multifunctional accessories.
• 1 minute : Take a minute to decide whether or not to keep each item. This avoids procrastination and simplifies the decision process.
3. Vertical Storage: Optimize the Walls 🏠
Vertical storage is a classic trick, but have you considered using walls in every room, even in unexpected places like closet doors or hallways? Invisible hooks and wall shelves help you organize without cluttering the space. Plus, using wall storage helps free up floor space, creating a more open and tidy feel.
Little-known tip: In small rooms like the bathroom or entryway, install a bar with hooks to store small accessories, like keys, umbrellas or even beauty tools.
4. The 5 Minutes Per Room Rule: A Simple Daily Ritual ⏳
If the word “tidying” makes you cringe, adopt a system of mini-routines. The 5-minute-per-room method is perfect for maintaining order without effort. Dedicate five minutes each day to a specific room, tidying up clutter, quickly wiping down surfaces, or arranging cushions. This small habit, repeated daily, will quickly transform the atmosphere of your home.
Fun little extra: Put on your favorite music and turn this ritual into a mini morning or evening stress reliever!
5. The Power of “Invisible Bins” for Integrated Storage 🎒
Have you ever noticed how some homes seem incredibly tidy, even without much visible storage space? Invisible bins are a clever way to store items without adding visual clutter. For example, under your bed or in low drawers, store your infrequently used accessories (like seasonal items or paperwork) in shallow bins.
Practical tip: Choose bins or boxes made from natural or transparent materials for a discreet style.
6. Create a “Relaxation Corner” to Recharge Your Batteries 🌸
Beyond an organized space, Zen also involves places dedicated to relaxation. Set up a “relaxation corner” with soft and soothing objects, such as a soft blanket, a comfortable armchair, and a few scented candles. This corner will quickly become your personal refuge, ideal for reading or meditating. On chaotic days, you will always have a space to rest.
7. Use the “Organizing by Categories” Technique 📦
Instead of storing items room by room, try grouping them by category. For example, put all your paperwork in one box, no matter where it is in the house. The same goes for cables or cleaning products: put them in a dedicated cabinet to avoid running around the house looking for them.
Tip: Labeled boxes are ideal for this type of organization. Choose matching boxes to give your storage a uniform and elegant look.
8. Keep Closets Minimalist to Avoid Clutter 🍃
It is often thought that closed cupboards can hold a little bit of everything, but even these need to be organised to be useful. The rule is simple: leave space, even in the cupboards! Organize your objects by theme and make sure not to stack too many objects on top of each other.
Little-known tip: Have a “sorting box” in each closet to temporarily store items to donate or throw away, without hesitation.
9. Turn Organizational Tasks into Fun Moments 🎉
To keep organizing from being a chore, make it a fun challenge. For example, set up a quick tidying session each week where you take on one drawer or shelf. Get other family members involved by assigning roles and setting a timer to see who can finish the fastest. Not only will this motivate you, but it will make organizing fun.
10. Use Colors to Visually Structure 🟥🟩
Organization is also about visuals. Use color codes to distinguish items in your home. Colored boxes can be assigned to each family member or category (for example, red for important documents, green for accessories).
These organizational tips, sometimes simple but often overlooked, are small tools to make your home a space of peace and functionality. By gradually adopting these tips, your interior will become a place where life is good and where the mind can rest. Want more? Explore our selection of articles to find new inspiration for organizing your space!
