14 Nov 2024

Winter Wellness: Pro Organizer Tips for a Healthier, Happier Holiday Season

by | posted in: Uncategorized | 0

As the crisp air of winter descends, it’s the perfect time to refresh your home and prepare for the upcoming holiday season. A clutter-free space can not only make your home more inviting but also significantly improve your mental and physical well-being. In this post, we’ll explore practical tips for decluttering your home and maintaining healthy habits during the winter months.


A clutter-free home promotes a sense of calm, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. By following these practical tips, you can transform your space and establish habits for a more organized, cozy environment.

Decluttering Tips

  1. Start Small
    Start with manageable areas, like countertops and your entryway, to avoid feeling overwhelmed. An organized kitchen can also encourage mindful eating and hydration by keeping essentials within easy reach.
  2. Use the Four-Box Method
    Sort items into four categories: Keep, Donate, Sell, and Trash. This system simplifies decisions about what to keep and let go of. When selling items, check current second-hand prices to set a fair rate. Donate items you no longer use and replace broken or worn-out belongings.
  3. Don’t Forget Digital Decluttering
    Tidy up your digital space by organizing files, deleting unnecessary emails, and unsubscribing from unused newsletters. Start with your phone, updating contacts and addresses—handy for winter reach-outs.
  4. Seasonal Storage and Winter Essentials
    Replace summer items like linens and accessories with winter essentials like flannel sheets, blankets, and heavy coats. Organize storage for easy access to winter necessities—keep ice scrapers, shovels, salt, outerwear, and snow tires in accessible areas. Prepare a power outage kit with medications, non-perishable food, water, flashlights, and batteries, stored in an easy-to-reach spot. It’s ideal to be prepared for a 72 hour outage.
  5. Create a Cozy Nook
    Dedicate a small area for relaxation. This can be anywhere in your home. As a suggestion, you would stock it with a book, a record player, a comfy chair, and a warm blanket. A personal retreat for winding down can help you recharge during the winter and holiday season.

Maintaining Healthy Habits During the Holidays
The holiday season often comes with indulgence and added stress. These healthy habits can help keep you grounded, focused, and energized:

Mindful Eating

  • Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes, especially at holiday meals.
  • Balanced Diet: Emphasize whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
  • Hydration: Keep water on hand to stay hydrated throughout the day. Warm water with lemon is also beneficial.

Regular Exercise

  • Indoor Workouts: Try a free online fitness class based on our doctor’s recommendations.
  • Outdoor Activities: Embrace the season with walks, snowshoeing, or skiing. Even sitting in nature can be healing.

Stress Management

  • Mindfulness Meditation: Practice mindfulness to reduce stress.
  • Quality Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours per night to stay refreshed.
  • Social Connection: Spend time with loved ones and engage in social activities to maintain emotional well-being. Reach out to your local community.

Holiday Baking Made Easy
For holiday baking, streamline your pantry by donating unused items, replacing any broken or expired goods, and organizing essentials at the front for easy access. Keep baking tools like measuring cups, cookie cutters, and mixing bowls together so everything’s ready when you need it.

Creating a Cozy Winter Retreat
Transform your home into a warm, inviting retreat with a few simple touches:

  • Soft Lighting: Opt for warm-toned lights to create a cozy ambiance.
  • Textiles: Add blankets, throws, and pillows to living spaces for comfort.
  • Seasonal Scents: Use candles or diffusers with scents like cinnamon, vanilla, or pine. I highly recommend soy candles.
  • Indoor Plants: Brighten up your home with indoor greenery. By combining decluttering, healthy habits, and cozy decor, you can create a winter retreat that brings comfort and calm. A well-organized, inviting space supports your mental and physical well-being all season long.

Need Assistance?

Fill out the online form today to schedule a consultation, and we’ll help get you winter ready! Visit https://cindywezenbeek.com/contact-us/ to get started. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more tips and inspiration.

17 Sep 2024

Wellness Begins at Home: How to Create a Sanctuary

by | posted in: Decluttering, Family Activity, Healthy Lifestyle, Mental Health | 0

As a professional organizer, I believe that your living environment plays a significant role in your overall well-being. A cluttered or disorganized home can contribute to stress, anxiety, and decreased productivity. Conversely, a clean, organized space can promote relaxation, focus, and a positive mindset.

The Impact of Your Home Environment

  • Stress Reduction: A clutter-free space can help reduce stress and anxiety, allowing you to relax and recharge. Studies have shown that a cluttered environment can activate the body’s stress response, leading to increased cortisol levels.
  • Increased Productivity: A well-organized workspace can enhance your focus and efficiency, leading to increased productivity. When you can easily find what you need, you’re less likely to feel overwhelmed or distracted.
  • Improved Mood: A tidy and inviting home can positively impact your mood and overall outlook on life. A clutter-free space can create a sense of calm and order, contributing to a more positive mindset.

Creating a Sanctuary

To transform your home into a sanctuary, consider the following strategies:

  1. Declutter: Eliminate unnecessary items that are causing clutter and stress. Begin by creating a designated decluttering area and sorting through your belongings. Donate, sell, or discard items that no longer serve you.
  2. Organize: Develop efficient systems to store and access your belongings. Use storage solutions that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Consider labeling shelves and drawers to keep everything in its place.
  3. Personalize: Add personal touches that reflect your style and values. Incorporate items that bring you joy and make your home feel like a reflection of yourself.
  4. Minimize: Consider downsizing to create a more manageable and peaceful living space. If you have too much stuff, it can be overwhelming and stressful. By downsizing, you can create a more minimalist and peaceful environment.

Let’s Work Together

I can help you implement these strategies and create a home that supports your well-being. Together, we can:

  • Assess your needs: Identify areas where your home could benefit from reorganization.
  • Develop a plan: Create a personalized plan to address your specific goals.
  • Implement changes: Provide practical advice and support throughout the process.

Additional Tips:

  • Create a calming atmosphere: Use soft lighting, soothing colors, and calming scents to create a relaxing ambiance.
  • Mindful cleaning: Practice mindful cleaning by focusing on the present moment and enjoying the process.
  • Create a daily or weekly cleaning routine: Establish a consistent cleaning routine to maintain a tidy and organized space.
  • Incorporate nature: Bring the outdoors in by adding plants or natural elements to your home.

Remember, your home reflects your inner world. By creating a sanctuary, you can cultivate a sense of peace, tranquility, and well-being.

Health and Wellness is Important to Us

CW Organizing Services is proud to be an exhibitor of The Halifax Health & Wellness Show this year, an event hosted by O2GO Mobile Oxygen Lounge. You can also find them on Instagram and TikTok. A portion of our proceeds from the door will be donated to Mental Heath Foundation of Nova Scotia.

Get in Touch

Fill out the online form today to schedule a consultation, and we’ll help you create your perfect sanctuary! Visit https://cindywezenbeek.com/contact-us/ to get started. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more tips and inspiration.

28 Aug 2024

Back-to-School Bliss: Decluttering and Organizing Tips

by | posted in: Decluttering, Home Improvement, Lifestyle, Planning, Productivity | 0
Pic of Desk with books and shelves

As the summer days wind down and the crisp scent of autumn fills the air, it’s time to gear up for the new school year. A fresh start often means a fresh space, and decluttering and organizing can help you and your family feel more prepared and less stressed.

CW Organizing is here to guide you through the process with these helpful tips:

  1. Start with a Clean Slate
    • Purge Unused Items: Begin by going through your child’s belongings and removing anything they no longer use or need. Consider donating items in good condition or having a garage sale.
    • Organize Supplies: Gather all school supplies, such as notebooks, pens, and folders, and sort them into designated bins or compartments. This will make it easy to find what you need when it’s time to hit the books.
  2. Create a Functional Workspace
    • Designate a Study Area: Choose a quiet, well-lit space for your child to do homework. Ensure there’s a comfortable desk and chair, adequate storage for books and supplies, and minimal distractions.
    • Organize Books and Papers: Use bookcases, shelves, or filing systems to keep textbooks, notebooks, and loose papers organized. This will help prevent clutter and make it easier to find what you need.
  3. Optimize Storage
    • Utilize Vertical Space: Maximize storage in your child’s room by using shelves, over-the-door organizers, and under-bed storage containers. This will help keep things tidy and free up floor space.
    • Label Everything: Label storage containers and shelves to help keep things organized and easily accessible. This will make it easier for your child to find what they need and put things away after use.
  4. Incorporate Habits for Ongoing Maintenance
    • Daily Cleanups: Encourage your child to tidy up their belongings at the end of each day. This will help prevent clutter from building up and make it easier to maintain an organized space.
  5. Regular Reviews:
    • Periodically review your child’s belongings to ensure they still serve their purpose. This will help you identify items that can be donated or discarded, keeping the space clutter-free.

By following these tips, you can create a more organized and functional space for your child to learn and grow. Remember, decluttering and organizing doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Take it one step at a time and enjoy the feeling of a fresh start as the new school year begins.

Need more personalized help? Contact CW Organizing today for a free consultation!

Visit https://cindywezenbeek.com/contact-us/ to get started. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more tips and inspiration.

13 Jul 2024

A Day in the Decluttering Zone: Confessions of a Professional Organizer

by | posted in: Decluttering, Home Improvement, Lifestyle, Planning, Productivity | 0
Photo Courtesy of SaltWire

In a recent interview with SaltWire Multimedia, I shed some light on what a typical day looks like for someone in my field. It might not start with a corner office view, but it definitely involves prep. Just like everyone else, I pack a lunch, grab a water bottle – gotta stay fueled for conquering clutter! But instead of a cubicle, my destination is my client’s house, where I’m ready to transform their space.

“We just declutter, organize whatever the project is,” I tell people. Whether it’s a clothes avalanche in a bedroom or a paper mountain exploding in a home office, my team and I work alongside our clients. Our mission? To create functional, calming spaces that reflect their needs. Picture a kitchen where everything has a designated spot, making meal prep a breeze, or a home office free of chaos, allowing for laser focus.

But my passion for organization goes beyond individual clients. I’m a proud Silver Leaf Member of the Professional Organizers in Canada (POC), a group that’s boomed since its humble beginnings 25 years ago. In fact, I’m honored to serve as the current POC President  and have been a board member since 2018.

“It’s grown immensely,” I say with a smile. “We started as a tiny group of six organizers meeting a couple times a year, and now we’re over 450 members strong!” This growth reflects the increasing demand for our services. People are recognizing the power of organized spaces – it’s not just about aesthetics, but improved mental well-being and productivity too.

The POC’s mission is clear: to empower people drowning in clutter and raise awareness of professional organizing as a legitimate industry. “There’s a misconception that we’re perfect, with spotless lives,” I explain. “But that’s totally untrue. We have systems and expertise, but trust me, real homes get messy.” We’re not there to judge; we’re here to guide you through the decluttering process and create systems that work for your unique lifestyle.

So, if you’re feeling defeated by clutter, don’t despair. Professional organizers like me are here to help you reclaim your space and create a more organized, stress-free life. Imagine the satisfaction of walking into a room that feels calming and clutter-free, or the joy of finding what you need exactly when you need it. With a professional organizer by your side, that dream can become your reality.

Get in Touch

Visit https://cindywezenbeek.com/contact-us/ to get started. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more tips and inspiration.

Watch the full interview with SaltWire Media here:

Healthy Superfood Chocolate Bark
24 Dec 2023

Superfood Chocolate Bark

by | posted in: Healthy Lifestyle, Mental Health, Recipes | 0

Healthy Superfood Chocolate Bark.

Chock full of hearty ingredients to satisfy any sweet tooth without the guilt.

 

Ingredients :

Dark chocolate: The chocolate I use ranges from 70% cacao to 90%, but I most often use 85%. You can use a chopped chocolate bar or chocolate chips – both work.

Oil: You can use any oil you like. I typically use avocado or coconut oil. The oil prevents the chocolate from becoming too dry and brittle as it sets.

Mixed dried fruit and nuts: I use pecans, pistachios, and dried cranberries, dried goji berries, dried coconut flakes. If you have them, dried blueberries and dried cherries add that extra bit of antioxidants to this treat.

 

It’s best to use unsalted nuts. If you like salted chocolate, you can always sprinkle it with a few grains of sea salt, allowing you control over how salty it is.

 

Instructions :

  1. Place the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl.
  2. Melt it in the microwave in 30-second sessions, stirring after each session.
  3. Mix in the oil.
  4. Pour the melted chocolate into a wax-paper-lined 8-inch square pan and immediately sprinkle it with the toppings.
  5. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and freeze it until the chocolate is set, for about 30 minutes.
  6. Use a sharp chef’s knife to cut the chocolate into four large squares or eight small ones.
  7. I often cut it into four large squares and then cut each square into two triangles.
handmade swan christmas ornaments
24 Dec 2023

Christmas Swan Ornament Craft

by | posted in: Crafts, Family Activity, Healthy Lifestyle, Mental Health | 0

Here is a great Family Craft to make on Christmas Eve or any time over the holiday season.

 

Christmas Swan Ornaments :

 

  1. To make, paint a mini pinecone white and let it dry completely.
  2. Roll the end of a white pipe cleaner around itself to make a little head for your swan.
  3. Cut the pipe cleaner about 1” below the head you made and attach it to one end of the pinecone with a dot of hot glue. This will create your swan’s neck and head.
  4. Cut a small triangle out of gold craft paper and attach it to the side of the pipe cleaner head to make your beak.
  5. Cut two small wing shapes out of felt and hot glue them onto the side of the pinecone to make your wings.
  6. Add a looped piece of string to the swan to create an ornament for hanging!

 

self care
7 Sep 2023

Back to School Self Care

by | posted in: Healthy Lifestyle, Mental Health | 0

With the First Week of School underway, we thought we’d offer some tips in the coming weeks to help you and your kids cope.

It can be challenging to step out of the lazy days of summer and into busy routines again.

It can quickly become overwhelming for everyone and lead to stress.

First we’d like to offer a list of tips for maintaining your mental health :

 

  • Prioritize Sleep
  • Build a Daily Stress Relieving Activity
  • Find a Physical Activity you like to do.
  • Know where you can go when you are struggling
  • Get Organized
  • Take Breaks when you need them!

Stay tuned for our next blog when we explore these tips further.

This will help everyone in your household to organize healthy and happy routines.

31 Jul 2023

Summer Bucket List

by | posted in: Uncategorized | 0
Earlier this month, we mentioned the concept of Magical Mystery tours and flexible road tripping.
While magical mystery tours can be fun and relaxed, sometimes it’s a great idea to pre plan some summer activities :
Make a summer bucket list of places you wish to visit, and get online. Work out how far away they are, opening hours, activities and age appropriateness.
Here in Nova Scotia there is so much happening in August and so many great destinations to explore.
In HRM and surrounding areas :
Free by donation or inexpensive places to visit :
  • Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame
  • Maritime Command Museum
  • Cole Harbour Heritage Farm
  • Scott Manor House Museum
  • Shearwater Aviation Museum
  • William Ray Quaker Whaler House
  • University Art Galleries
  • HMCS Sackville
  • York Redoubt National Historic Site
  • Emera Oval. ( bring your kids’ bikes )
  • Point Pleasant Park
  • Public Gardens
Annapolis Valley and areas :
Free, by donation or inexpensive :
  • Oaklawn Zoo.  ( one of the best family zoos in Canada in my opinion ) visit the many animals for a relaxed afteroon.
  • Greenwood Aviation Museum
  • Kingston Farm Market
  • Wolfville Farmer’s Market. 
  • Hennigar’s Farmer’s Market – Wolfville
  • Stirling’s Farmer’s Market
  • Noggins Corner Farm Greenwich
  • Harriet Irving Botanical Gardens Wolfville
  • Fort Anne in Annapolis Royal
  • Port Royal ( just up the road from Annapolis Royal )
  • Stroll Along Main Streets in Wolfville, Berwick, Kentville and Annapolis Royal for interesting shops and cafes
Beaches, so many beaches and they are all free.
Events in August 2023:
Halifax Busker Festival ( multiple locations ) August 2-7
Natal Day Weekend Festivities (multiple locations) August 4-8
Seaport Cider and Beerfest and Fizzfest (Halifax Seaport) August 10-12
Sealight Skylight Festival ( The Deanery Project) August 12th
Great Outdoors Comedy Fest featuring Jerry Seinfeld ( Halifax Garrison Grounds) August 11-13th
Clam Harbour Beach Sandcastle Competition ( Clam Harbour Beach Provincial Park ) August 13
Halifax County Exhibition August 16-19
fruit popsicles
30 Jul 2023

Healthy Fruity Popsicles

by | posted in: Healthy Lifestyle, Recipes | 0

Healthy summertime popsicles are easy as can be. The biggest challenge will be deciding which ones to make.

Start with whole berries, blackberries and blueberries sliced fruit like Strawberries, Oranges, Pineapple, Mango, and Kiwi.

Add your fruit to molds. There are a wide variety of popsicle molds to use. Silicon molds are our go to for their ease of use and durability.

Then decide your base, for creamy popsicles, used Greek Yogurt, or Coconut Milk, for more fruity, icy popsicles you can use Water, Coconut Water, Orange or Apple Juice.

You can also puree fruit and even vegetables together for a more condensed frozen treat.

You can enjoy them with the natural sweetness from the fruit, or add 2-4 tablespoons of Maple Syrup, Sugar, Honey or Agave to add some healthy sweetness.


Ingredients

Berry Lemon
½ cup orange juice
1 ½ cup fresh berries
2 Tbsp lemon juice
1 Tbsp lemon zest
2 to 4 Tbsp honey or sugar

Rainbow Fruit
1 cup sliced fruit
1 ½ cups coconut water
2 to 4 Tbsp honey or sugar


Berries and Cream
1 ½ cups fresh berries
2 Tbsp honey or sugar
1 cup full-fat plain Greek yogurt
½ tsp vanilla extract

Coconut Lime
1 14-oz can full-fat coconut milk
¼ cup lime juice
2 Tbsp lime zest
¼ cup honey

Sneaky Spinach
1 ½ cups milk
1 cup fresh spinach
¼ cup honey
2 bananas


Instructions

Mix: Mix your ingredients and pour into molds according to the popsicle you want to make:

Berry Lemon: Combine all ingredients in a blender until smooth. Pour into molds.

Rainbow Fruit: Distribute fruit into molds. Combine coconut water and honey, then pour into molds, tapping on the counter to remove air pockets.

Berries and Cream: Puree berries until smooth (add a touch of water or juice if needed to get things moving). Stir together yogurt, honey, and vanilla. Spoon berries and yogurt into molds in alternating layers.

Coconut Lime: Stir together all ingredients. Pour into molds.

Sneaky Spinach: Combine all ingredients in a blender until smooth. Pour into molds.

Freeze: Insert popsicle sticks and freeze until hard, at least 4 hours.

Unmold: Run mold under warm water for a few seconds to loosen, then remove pops from the molds.

Thai Coconut Chicken
30 Jul 2023

Thai Coconut Grilled Chicken

by | posted in: Healthy Lifestyle | 0

Ingredients :

  • Chicken Thighs (boneless, skinless if possible)
  • Canned Coconut Milk
  • Limes
  • Sriracha or Sambal Oeleck (thai hot chili paste)
  • Brown Sugar
  • Vegetable or Olive Oil
  • Ginger
  • Garlic
  • Salt
  • Cilantro

    • Instructions :

    Make marinade :
    In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut milk, lime juice and zest, sambal oeleck, brown sugar, vegetable oil, coriander, cumin, tumeric, cinnamon, ginger, garlic, and season with salt to taste.

    Reserve a portion of marinade: Measure out 1/3 cup of marinafe mixture (leaving plenty of garlic and ginger behind) and reserve separately in the fridge for later use.

    Place chicken in resealable bag or bowl. Pour marinade over chicken and put in fridge for 1-6 hours to marinade.

    When the chicken has had time to marinade, preheat Heat Grill, until it reaches 400 degrees. Cook Chicken on grill 5 minutes, then baste with reserved marinade often, flip chicken and continue to baste until chicken is 165 degrees in centre. Do not over cook!

    Transfer chicken to plate, with Jasmine rice and vegetable of your choice, and garnish with cilantro.

    Enjoy!