In Japan many people do O-souji – a ‘big clean’ of their home and workplace before the new year comes. Back home, we tend to it in spring and call it ‘spring cleaning’.
I like that O-souji symbolizes a fresh start and purification of your home to welcome another year. It is also believed that happiness, health and wealth is brought to those who clean their homes by the New Year deity.
I have lived here for over six years now and have adopted this custom. The thought of having a deity visit my home is a little creepy but, who doesn’t want to have a bit more happiness, health and wealth? I certainly do!
The task is never easy, though. The cleaning of windows and outdoor spaces is what I dread the most and always do them last just because it is so cold. However, I always feel lighter and feel better after the job is done and makes me realize that I don’t need to hang on to junk and clutter I’ve collected over the years.
Hope you all have a wonderful New Year break!