Spark Joy: An Illustrated Guide to the Japanese Art of Tidying

Such items can be used to bundle up cables that are long and unsightly or as dust covers for household appliances when they’re not in use, such as electric fans in winter.

I have learned from my clients that what really brings joy to our lives is savouring daily life, instead of taking it for granted.

The process is really like a word association game. As you go along, you’ll soon find that similar things naturally end up side by side. In reality, seemingly separate categories overlap each other slightly, existing in a gradation of interconnection.

If you think that tidying up just means getting rid of clutter, you’re wrong. Always keep in mind that the true purpose is to find and keep the things you truly love, to display these proudly in your home, and to live a joyful life.

Tidying is the act of confronting yourself;

You must select a comfortable storage place for each item you have decided to keep, one where each can shine to its full potential. The things you have chosen support your life. You must create a space where they can feel at home.

The tidying process thus represents a huge turning point in a person’s life. So seriously consider the ideal lifestyle to which you aspire.

Objects that have been steeped in memories carry a much clearer imprint of special times.

THE LIVING ROOM’S role is to provide a space for the family to gather and enjoy each other’s company. Always keep in mind that it’s the centre of family life.