Feel good, French style

I have been in a flurry of autumnal housekeeping. Declutter your home, declutter your mind – it’s a great feeling. In this day and age where projects tend to be complicated and never ending, it feels so satisfying to overhaul your closets and then stand back and admire your handiwork.

But what do you do with all the stuff you don’t want? Clothes and other knickknacks are easy – there is Ebay, thrift shops like Second Time Around and organizations such as Dress for Success. For textiles which are too worn to be donated or sold, remember that they shouldn’t end up in landfills. Instead of trashing them, check out recycling programs like Wearable Collections.

My recent conundrum was electronics. What to do with my broken toaster, old phone, antiquated tape recorder and an assorted collection of cables? Then I learned that Best Buy will take back any electronics, no matter whether they sold it to you or not. My husband and I tested it this week-end. They took our big bag off our hands with a smile, and I saw that you could also recycle old DVDs and used gift cards. Brilliant.

After all that housework, I treated myself to some energizing (and efficient) R&R at Sanctuary Pilates and Wellness.  Kate Artibee’s new studio (UES Manhattan) is amazing. If you have trouble deciding between yoga and pilates, Kate has classes that blend both, and includes pre-natal and kids classes. To celebrate her new mat studio, Kate is offering first-time clients a free class. Just mention Feel good, French style.

I hope you enjoy these tips for creating breathing room in your home and in your body.

What are yours?

Live épanoui*

Elisa

* in full bloom