The Weight of “Osouji”
In Japan, the end of the year is always linked to Osouji or Ōsōji (大掃除)—the tradition of deep cleaning before welcoming the New Year. But this practice is more than just tidying up.
Its roots go back to the Edo period, when people carried out susuharai—literally “soot sweeping”—on December 13, a day considered highly auspicious. The purpose was to clear away a year’s worth of dust and dirt in order to welcome Toshigami-sama, the deity who was believed to bring happiness and good fortune in the New Year.
Over time, this became a household ritual across Japan. Families would carefully clean not just for hygiene, but as a symbolic way to reset the home, purify the spirit, and prepare both body and mind for a fresh start. Even today, although the spiritual meaning has faded for many, the cultural weight of “Osouji” remains strong.
My Quiet Struggle with Osouji
When I moved to North America from Japan, I carried that expectation with me. Every December, I felt the heavy pressure of “I should be doing a big cleaning.” Back when I lived in Winnipeg, I was navigating an entirely new life—no friends nearby, all my university classes in English, and just trying to keep up. Later, in Vancouver, I found myself busy with new hobbies and opportunities.
But honestly? Tidying has never been my strength. I can live with a little mess. Still, when December came, guilt crept in. “Everyone else is cleaning… why can’t I?” I would end up half-heartedly clearing my desk, calling it a day, and stepping into the New Year in the same old cycle.
The Shift
Recently, I realized something important: I don’t need to do everything at once, and it doesn’t have to happen at the end of the year.
The turning point came when I joined Decluttering Challenge last year. The idea was simple: focus on one small space at a time.
When I told myself, “Today, just this drawer,” I didn’t feel overwhelmed. I could start, finish, and actually feel lighter inside. That little success sparked motivation: “Maybe I’ll tackle this next.”
It hit me—my old belief that “deep cleaning must be done all at once” was just a self-imposed rule. By letting it go, tidying became lighter, even enjoyable.
The Wellness Parallel
This experience mirrors what I see in nutrition and wellness.
Often, the very habits we stick to for “health” can end up causing stress or even harm. Maybe it’s a superfood that doesn’t agree with your digestion. Or following strict food rules so rigidly that the stress outweighs the benefits.
Marie Kondo, known for her philosophy of keeping only what sparks joy, reminds us that decluttering isn’t about getting rid of things—it’s about choosing what truly supports our happiness. The same applies to our wellness journey. Just like our homes, our bodies and routines deserve space to breathe.
When we release health rules or beliefs that no longer serve us, we create room—for balance, for joy, for true well-being.
An Invitation
So this year, why not extend your osouji beyond your home? Let’s clear away not just things, but also outdated rules or unnecessary pressures.
Remember, you don’t need to change everything overnight.
Start small:
-
Add protein to your breakfast—like eggs, cottage cheese, tofu, or (if you are ambitious natto.
-
Swap soda for sparkling water with R’s KOSO.
-
Sit with good posture when you eat.
Even one small shift can refresh both body and mind.
Closing
We have three months left until the new year. As the year ends, let’s welcome the new one with lightness—decluttering not just our spaces, but also our thoughts. Remember, it starts with “just one thing.” That small step will naturally lead to the next.
Tell me what’s one “rule” you’d like to let go of this year? Share it in the comments. I’d love to hear from you.
May today bring at least one choice that your future self will be grateful for.
