E64: The Environmental Domain of Stuff

On average, people move over 11 times in their lives, accumulating possessions and leaving many behind with each move. The things we bring into our homes can shape the atmosphere and function of our living spaces, but too much "stuff" can lead to clutter, detracting from the comfort and meaning we seek in our home environments. The balance between what we keep and discard plays a key role in defining what makes a house feel like home.

In the environmental domain of stuff, Kirtly Jones, MD, and her brother, Steven Parker, reflect on their frequent moves—together as a family, and individually—and the items they've accumulated along the way. They explore how our possessions impact our home environment, from deciding what belongings create a sense of comfort to knowing when it’s time to let go of items that no longer serve a purpose.