Simplify Your Life for Improved Health: Follow these organizing tips to achieve a sense of lighter, calmness, and stronger focus on what truly matters

The Organize Yourself Healthy (OYH) method, a signature approach created by Dutch organizing expert Di Ter Avest, is revolutionizing the way people approach home organization and personal well-being. This method, which has found success primarily in cities across the Netherlands and has also been applied in various European countries, goes beyond just tidying up and aims to build systems that support a healthier lifestyle.

At its core, the OYH method is a holistic approach, built on six core pillars: Mind, Time, Home, Social Life, Meal Planning, and Exercise.

Mind

One of the key strategies of the OYH method is the use of a Gratitude Journal. This simple, yet effective tool can help promote calmer evenings by journaling and avoiding phone usage. By taking a few moments each day to reflect on the things we are grateful for, we can cultivate a more positive mindset and reduce stress.

Time

Effective time management is about building routines that fit real life. This could mean blocking off time for meal prep, workouts, or family connection on calendars. The OYH method incorporates strategies for time management, routines, and overall well-being, using tools like command centers, calendars, and organizers.

Home

An organized home is the foundation for healthier habits and naturally supports mind, body, and daily routines. Organizing the pantry with useful pantry organization ideas can make it easier to reach for nourishing options, and a tidy kitchen directly influences daily choices. Baskets and bins are suggested for organizing items that tend to float around, such as toys, mail, or kids' school supplies.

Exercise

Setting up a corner in the home with a yoga mat and weights, or keeping the gym bag packed and ready by the door, can remove friction that often keeps us from moving our bodies.

Meal Planning

A simple meal board or digital planning tool can help reduce waste, save money, and make healthier food choices without the last-minute stress of "what's for dinner?" A magnetic meal planner can help with grocery planning and reduce the risk of running out of ingredients.

Social Life

Clearing visual clutter in the living room or organizing the bathroom can free up mental space for more connection. The Skylight Calendar and The Susan Wall organizer are examples of tools recommended by Di Ter Avest for maintaining organization and family communication.

The OYH method encourages decluttering before buying new organizing tools, and choosing tools that fit one's lifestyle and needs is key to staying organized. A Moleskine bullet journal is recommended for planning, goal-setting, and tracking habits. An wipe-clean magnetic habit tracker can help track positive changes and keep note of them.

For those seeking emotional relief and a more organized home, the OYH method, with its therapeutic benefits and practical strategies, provides a supportive and realistic approach, especially for busy moms and families. Through her book, one-on-one virtual sessions, and the Organize Yourself Healthy Club, Di Ter Avest continues to support people all over the world in their journey towards a healthier, more organized life.

Simplify Your Life for Improved Health: Follow these organizing tips to achieve a sense of lighter, calmness, and stronger focus on what truly matters