Winter is starting to retreat, and hints of Spring are everywhere. Time to clear away the clutter and get you and your house in order. The benefits of a clean and organized home will translate into a calm, collected state psychologically. Although I'm not a Feng Shui expert, I do believe in the flow of energy within a home. When energy is blocked in a room, you don't want to spend time there. At the very least, it feels good to have minimal clutter and a bright living space.

It's best to allocate bi-annual cleansing rituals that will reduce accumulated stuff. I like to start at the top and work my way to the bottom. Go through the attic and really ask the hard questions: Have I used this in the past 5 years? Will I realistically ever use it? In your closet, if you haven't worn items in the past year, pack it up for charity. Many items such as books, DVD's and CD's can be sold at a flea market, or on Ebay! Getting rid of material possessions can be cleansing and refreshing, although at first it may be tough parting with some items.

It's a good idea to have three large bins at work, to help sort through material. Keep one for donations, one for selling and one for trash or recycling. Attempt to recycle all objects if possible. If you're anything like me, paper and mail will be the most time consuming effort. Invest in a good filing system, like an ordinary filing cabinet, and start folders for each subject. Remember to use common sense, and don't just move items from the house to the garage! Keep the momentum going and you'll be rewarded with a new home, one that is light, spacious, and comfortable to live in!

After the house is in order, spend some time on you! Since the heavy winter clothing has been packed away, it's time to indulge in flirty skirts, open-toe shoes, and light jackets. You need a makeup routine that is equally light and fresh. Toss out old makeup in the same way you cleared out your closets. It's easy to hang onto to makeup and beauty products for years, but it's really not recommended. Bacteria can grow in some products and cause irritation or infections. It's best to cull old products and start fresh.

A free vitual makeover is a perfect way to try out new looks and colour palettes without the high cost! During a virtual makeover, you're able to first choose a model that resembles your skin tone and colouring. The next step is to choose various colours for eyes, cheeks and lips. You can really see what works for daytime as well as night, with some options being obviously poor choices! There are dozens of combinations that you can try out to find a new look that suits. Have fun with the new you!

Visit http://www.girlyside.com/beauty.html to get your own virtual makeover!

Jane Arnold is a freelance writer and part-time beauty buff. You can get more health and beauty tips at her website at: http://www.girlyside.com/girlyside.html The website is a girl's guide to health, beauty, love and leisure. Sign up for the free newsletter at http://www.girlyside.com/newsletter.html

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