In honor of National Get Organized Month, give yourself more space, more time and more peace by getting organized. Get started by following these tips:

  • Sleep “tight.” An Internet survey by the National Association of Professional Organizers showed 26 percent noted the bedroom as the most disorganized room of the home. Organize from the inside out and delve deep into that bedroom closet. After trashing and donating, sort similar items. For example, hang all dress pants together, find a basket to stash purses, etc.

 

 
  • Identity crisis. Dual-purposing a room is a practical solution for most common areas of a home, but doing so can make it twice as hard to keep clean. Solution: Keep empty decorative bins nearby for a place to toss papers and miscellaneous objects.
  • Keep the coast clear. If your daily hygiene items are often sprawled on the bathroom counter, don’t try to work against your impulses. Purchase a decorative basket to toss all your items in for easy access each day.


Exercise Chills Out for the Winter
When you’re snuggled in bed on a cold winter’s morning, you may put your workout routine on ice. But with caution, planning and preparation, you can keep fit during winter months. After you get a doctor’s approval, create your exercise schedule. You can usually go walking or jogging outside at least one day a week in the wintertime. It’s chilly, but you’ll notice two perks: no bugs and spectacular views. Dress in at least three layers to draw sweat away from your skin and insulate yourself; they also protect you from outdoor moisture. Sporting goods stores can offer advice on fabrics suitable for outdoor activities.

  

Wear a hat, face mask or scarf, gloves or mittens, and waterproof shoes with traction. Finally, plan your route with shelter possibilities along the way, such as stores or public buildings. Also, choose areas clear of snow, ice, standing puddles and mud slicks. When the temperature dips below 0° F or the wind chill is below –20° F, opt for an indoor activity instead. Some ideas:

  • Walk briskly around the mall
  • Walk around an indoor track
  • Climb stairs
  • Perform calisthenics (jumping rope, jumping jacks, squats, leg-lifts, push-ups, abdominal crunches, marching
    in place, etc.)
  • Get on a treadmill
  • Put on an exercise video
  • Try weightlifting, yoga or tai chi.