make space Archives - Cheap and Functional

Familiar with the KonMari Method? If you have not heard of it, the KonMari method is created by Marie Kondo. When someone gave me the book, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo back in 2014, I finished it in one sitting. The next day, I went to arrange my clothes and filled about eight (8) big bags of my old clothes. Not only did I have a bigger space in my cabinet but it also made the room brighter.

The KonMari Method encourages tidying by category – not by location – beginning with clothes, then moving on to books, papers, komono (miscellaneous items), and, finally, sentimental items. Keep only those things that speak to the heart, and discard items that no longer spark joy. Thank them for their service – then let them go.” – About KonMari, konmari.com.

How about minimalism? “Minimalism is owning fewer possessions. Minimalism is intentionally living with only the things [I] you really need—those items that support [my] your purpose. [I am] Removing the distraction of excess possessions so [I] you can focus more on those things that matter most.” Joshua Becker, November 13, 2019.

Two ideas that go together and most Japanese practice this, referred to as wu wei (translated to material honesty).The Japanese culture reflects this as they see possessions as more than just earthly possessions but enjoying the aesthetics of it. It is indicative of their architecture and in their religion, Taoism. Observing minimalism creates that untroubled soul and a free flow of the energy.

Going back in time

It started in 1920 by the Bauhaus School on the ideal of balancing beauty with utility. In the 50’s up to the late 60’s, the emergence of minimalism in the American movement was seen in the visual arts and music and is interpreted in its extreme simplicity. In the 80’s, it extended to a way of life.

At present time, it has become a mainstream challenge by self-proclaimed experts with overhauling one’s material possessions down to one’s way of life.

For whatever your interpretation is about minimalism and the practice of the KonMari method, it gives more air and space which means less clutter. It promotes productivity, peace of mind and focus. Those who practice enjoy the quality of things over quantity and enjoy an easy cleaning and maintenance.

On the contrary, it may urge one to buy more things if a feeling of “bareness” arises. It involves finding the right multi-functional things to use and there might be a pressure to be able to answer “Does this spark joy?” each time when decluttering.

For as long as it answers your purpose to clean, declutter or to make things easier, then go ahead and enjoy.