In the cluttered world we live in, the Swedish practice of Döstädning, or “death cleaning,” offers a unique perspective on tidying up and simplifying our lives.
It isn’t just about cleaning – it’s also about leaving behind a meaningful legacy for our loved ones.
When families work with Avalon for their funeral planning, it often kicks off further thoughts about what they can do to prepare themselves and their families to relieve future stress.
Let’s explore one of the more practical questions that arises concerning not just our most treasured possessions, but how we treat the mundane objects in a gentle and compassionate way to remove burden from our family later.
Döstädning became well-known through Margareta Magnusson, a Swedish artist and author, who wrote “The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning.”
Despite its somewhat grim name, Döstädning isn’t only about getting ready for the end.
It’s a thoughtful process of simplifying our lives and possessions, with the intention of making things easier for those who will handle our belongings in the future.
At its core, Döstädning is about mindful decluttering.
It’s not just about getting rid of unnecessary things… but also about preserving and cherishing what truly matters.
Reflect on our possessions and the memories attached to them.
Instead of leaving a chaotic mess for our family to sort through, Döstädning helps us organise our belongings, ensuring that each item we keep holds sentimental or practical value.
One crucial aspect of Döstädning is letting go of things that no longer bring joy or hold significance.
This aligns with the principles of minimalism, focusing on quality over quantity. By choosing to surround ourselves only with things that truly matter, we create a living space that is purposeful and calming.
How to start death cleaning:
1. Start early and take it slow
Begin the process of death cleaning well in advance of when you think you need to, and don’t rush through it. Starting early allows you to carefully consider each item and make thoughtful decisions. Tackling the task gradually can also make it less overwhelming both emotionally and physically.
2. Categorise and prioritise:
Divide your belongings into categories, such as clothing, books, sentimental items, etc. Prioritise what you want to address first. Starting with less emotionally charged categories can help build momentum and make it easier to part with things as you progress to more sentimental items.
3. Consider your legacy
Reflect on what kind of legacy you want to leave behind. Keep items that have personal significance or tell a story about your life. Consider passing on family heirlooms or items of sentimental value to loved ones. This ensures that your belongings are cherished and continue to hold meaning for others.
4. Don’t forget digital clutter
In today’s digital age, death cleaning should extend to your online presence as well. Organise and secure important digital documents, photos, and passwords. Consider what you want to happen to your online accounts and communicate your wishes to someone you trust. Avalon’s LifeLocker is a fantastic tool you can use to help organise your digital legacy.
5. Communicate your intentions
It’s essential to communicate your death cleaning intentions with your loved ones. Letting them know about your process and the decisions you’ve made can prevent misunderstandings and ensure that your wishes are respected. Discussing these matters openly can also provide an opportunity for meaningful conversations about memories and shared experiences.
Death Cleaning is a powerful and mindful way to declutter. It’s a reminder to live with purpose, value simplicity, and leave behind a legacy that reflects a life well-lived.
Avalon Funeral Plans is committed to supporting families during the tender and sometimes tumultuous grief journey. We have resources available throughout our site to help you and your family have meaningful conversations about funeral planning and how to meet death and dying with compassion and understanding.
