Over the past year, our lives have changed dramatically and we spend much more time at home. This situation has forced us to learn to live in limited spaces and keep our homes organised to get the most out of every day. Therefore, maximising our homes potential has become an essential part of life.
While searching the Internet to find useful advice on how to keep homes organised, I came across many ancient philosophical concepts that describe strongly rooted lifestyles within different cultures around the world. Back in April 2020, we explored the Danish concept of Hygge, which encourages you to focus on the small things in life that bring us comfort. But other philosophies could also help you overcome this particular period of life. Here are 4 unique concepts and ideas for you to incorporate into your approach to home organisation and storage.
Ubuntu
Born in southern Africa and made famous by the one and only Nelson Mandela, the Ubuntu bases its entire philosophy on the close bond that forms between human beings. The COVID19 crisis has made us all realise the importance of socialising with others, making this African concept even more relevant. It claims that each individual only has value through his or her community, and behaving well towards others or acting in ways that benefit the community is the essence of relationships and the link with nature.
How can this lifestyle be applied to storage?
Allocate a room for everyone’s favourite activities (e.g. drawing, painting, crochet, reading, cooking, etc.), create a space where everyone can store their own materials and focus on moments of sharing so that everyone can indulge in their passion and share it with others. Preferably use storage made from natural material, such as baskets, shelves and organisers, that will allow you to keep this precious bond with Mother Nature.
Coorie
A region that remains unscathed by extreme conditions, Scotland offers some of the most majestic landscapes in the world. The inhabitants of this region have been able to adapt to their difficult environment by using a remarkably simple philosophy of life that they call Coorie. Like many living arts, Coorie is practiced in harmony with nature, whether it rains, the sun is out or the temperatures are below zero. It encourages activities such as wild camping, bothying (free-access hostels), staycations and the word suitcase refers to spending your holidays at home. But if there is one essential element to the practice of Coorie, it is comfort. Whether you stay at home in the warm to share a good meal, go out and enjoy your garden or go wild camping, it’s essential to practice these activities in optimal comfort. There’s nothing like a big fleece jacket and a cosy sleeping bag to meditate around a campfire.
How can this lifestyle be applied to storage?
When the cold sets in, always keep a large basket in your living room to store some warm blankets and extra cushions. When your loved ones visit, you can snuggle up under thick layers of plaids and spend the evening chatting. If you’re a fan of outdoor activities, even in winter, store and protect all your camping and hiking gear in one wardrobe. As soon as the opportunity arises, you’ll be ready to take out your all weather gear and be outside in minutes.
Friluftsliv
Behind this word that would cause fever and headaches for crossword experts across the world, hides the art of living that comes straight from Norway. With it’s vast wilderness, this country’s inhabitants have become accustomed to living outdoors. The concept of Friluftsliv revolves around two essential axis: to practice a sports activity such as hiking, whatever its physical condition, and to enter into communion with nature. The goal is to achieve personal balance through the physical and psychological well-being provided by this way of life. Don’t forget to take the time to relax by lying on the floor or on a hammock. According to the Norwegians, dedicating a lot of time to these activities will also increase creativity. What could be better?
How can this lifestyle be applied to storage?
It is obviously difficult to enjoy the great outdoors at this fragile time. However, you could create an outdoor space to grow shrubs, plants and pretty flowers. And if you don’t have a garden, select a bright room from your apartment and place large potted plants, flowers or even a hammock (if you can figure out how to hang it!). And, most importantly, create space to store your yoga mat and sports equipment, allowing you to do your workouts at home. You can close your eyes and listen to nature’s music and sounds from a playlist.
Keyif
The last concept of our series, the Keyif, is the art of living practiced in much of present-day Turkey. With it’s mild climate, especially on the Anatolian coasts, local people spend most of their time outdoors, sharing tea on the terrace, strolling through markets or engaging in outdoor group activities. In Keyif, the notion of time is ephemeral as you must learn to free yourself from constraints and urgency. Take the time to observe crowds walking through the streets, spend hours fishing alone or with friends, and conclude that no matter what happens, every problem will eventually find its solution. Knowing how to live together requires taking the time to enjoy the moment and putting your anxiety to one side.
How can this lifestyle be applied to storage?
Until you can go outside without too many restrictions, think about outdoor activities that you enjoy and organise all the equipment you’ll need in preparation for the end of lockdown. If you have a balcony or a garden overlooking the street, set up a table, enjoy a tea infusion and take time to watch the world go by. This is an activity, especially if you are working from home and having trouble switching off after a stressful day. Take the time to disconnect from work and re-connect with surrounding life.
Thank you for taking the time to read this article, I hope that some of the concepts discussed will be useful. If you liked this article or if you have anything to add, please let us know in the comments. There are many other lifestyles that we can discuss in future articles. In the meantime, take a look at our other topics. Take care of yourself and your loved ones!