Simple Trick To Enjoy The Laundry

Two years ago I had an epiphany at Christmas time- a revolutionary thought that would change how I do my laundry. This simple trick has allowed me to not only enjoy my laundry but practice mindfulness.

The problem…

I used to hate doing the laundry. It was the worst of the homemaking tasks in my opinion. I often put it off until I became overwhelmed by the sheer volume I had. Needless to say, this was not a good system.

I needed a change and I wasn’t sure how I would find it. I read articles on other people’s laundry systems: do one load all the way through or sort this way instead of that way. It all sounded good but I knew it wasn’t going to be the life-changing system for me.

The change that made all the difference…

Every year at Christmas time I have a tradition when wrapping gifts for my children and husband. I sort the gifts into piles for each person. As I wrap the gifts for each one I pray for them for the coming year. I ask God to guide them and to guide me as a mother and wife.

Two years ago as I was doing this it hit me; why was I waiting an entire year to do this? I want to be mindful of what I am doing for my family on a daily basis. I want to live a life full of intention and spirituality. Why not bring this practice into the laundry room?

So I tasked myself with spending time in prayer as I fold each load of laundry. I started with my usual large load of laundry at the end of the week, I sorted into piles for each person and began.

Suddenly…

I found myself wanting to fold laundry on a stressful day and enjoying getting the clothing out of the dryer and folding each morning. I began doing laundry daily instead of becoming overwhelmed. I felt relaxed instead of stressed out. It took me a while, but I was able to find the system that worked for me.

Now on a daily basis, I do a load of laundry, sort the washed clothing into piles by owner and as I fold I pray over that person. I ask for help guiding their hearts in our home. I ask for patience as their teacher in our homeschool. I ask for God to use me to help encourage them! I go to him and I find peace with my laundry.