A few years ago, when I came back home after my postgraduation, my nani (maternal grandmother) gifted me one of her rings as a present. That precious ring now gently rests on my right hand, a seldom teary-eyed reminder that Nani gave it to me. In fact, over the years, she had gifted some of her jewelery and other precious things to her daughters and grandchildren.

Elders seem to give away their treasures quite easily and selflessly, don't they? Is it them taking care of their things before the inevitable happens? Before they cease to exist on this planet? Is it them making sure their much-treasured items are in the hands of their loved ones?
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The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning is a guide to put your things in order before you die. Death isn't often talked about but is the only thing one is sure of. Which is why all of us, no matter the age, should strive to keep things they truly admire or want. If possible, even make a list of things they want to give to their families or send to charity.

The main idea behind death cleaning, aka dostadning, is making sure you leave very little for your family to 'take care of' after you're gone. As Magnussun writes, 'A loved one wishes to inherit nice things from you. Not all things from you.'

I am not sure why, but reading this tiny book switched on a bulb in my head. Nobody knows when they're going to die, but it does help to get rid of the abundance, isn't it? And let's be honest, once a loved one has passed, isn't it difficult to throw out their things or distribute them amongst family?

It was a short read, but definitely an eye-opening one. You an give it a go if you're looking for a minimalist lifestyle.
So, the next time you clean out your cupboard, ask yourself, 'Will anyone I know be happier if I save this?'