How to avoid the emotional pain of decluttering

We are as attached to our possessions, be they clothes, household goods, or cars, as we are to people and places. Róisín Burke talks to three people who recently went through the process about the emotional pain of decluttering

THE latest buzz-word for hoarding is stuffocation and decluttering experts are the new life coaches. But what happens when the ‘stuff’ you are supposed to get rid of holds real sentimental value?

One suitcase, a guitar, and teddy bear are all Rebecca Davies has left after selling all her belongings to go travelling. Rebecca, who has been living in Cork for the past ten years, is moving to London to work in a Montessori school.