Shedding the Old: A Simple Home Reset Before Chinese New Year

Shedding the Old: A Simple Home Reset Before Chinese New Year

While January often feels like the start of a new chapter, according to the Chinese calendar we’re still in the Year of the Snake. The Year of the Horse officially begins on February 17, which means this in-between period is all about preparation rather than momentum.

The Snake is associated with shedding, letting go of people, patterns and parts of ourselves that no longer align. It’s not always comfortable, but it’s purposeful. This phase is about clearing the way for what’s next, before the faster, forward-moving energy of the Horse takes over.

Why This Is the Perfect Time to Declutter at Home

One of the simplest and most practical ways to “shed” is on the home front.

Our homes quietly hold onto the past , unused items, overflowing cupboards, cluttered storage areas and things we’ve outgrown but never quite dealt with. Over time, that clutter adds visual noise and can make everyday living feel heavier than it needs to be.

Decluttering now, before the new lunar year begins, can:
• Create a sense of calm and clarity at home
• Make spaces feel more open and functional
• Help reset routines and daily flow
• Make it easier to step into the year ahead feeling organised
This doesn’t mean a full house overhaul. Even clearing one wardrobe, pantry or storage area can make a noticeable difference.

A Gentle Reset, Not a Full Reset

This period isn’t about perfection. It’s about intention.

Think of it as a simple home reset, letting go of what’s no longer useful, practical or enjoyable, and making space for what supports the way you want to live now.

As the Year of the Snake draws to a close, it offers one final reminder: before we move forward, we shed. Sometimes, the clearest way to prepare for what’s next is simply to clear a little space.