However, if you subscribe to the feng shui theory of energy, then "out of sight" isn't going to align with your beliefs. Energy has no boundaries, according to feng shui, and hidden spaces that look messy, ugly and packed with stuff can make a subtle impact on your sense of well-being.

We know that reclaiming space at home clears the mind, leaves you feeling lighter, reduces chaos and gives you back a sense of control. Even the act of getting things organized and orderly will make your life seem simpler. But, in feng shui circles, what's behind closed doors can also reveal a lot about ourselves.

So go ahead and open everything, including those medicine cabinets, pantries and file drawers. Notice what you are holding on to, both internally and externally. Unworn clothes, unused possessions and old paper files can keep you linked to the past.

Hoarding stuff can mirror a need to hide your innermost feelings. Closets that need attention might mean that you could use some nurturing, too. Even tidy areas are revealing -- neatniks can suffer from compulsive tendencies, inflexibility and perfectionism.

Symbolically, autumn is the season of resolution and letting go, making it the perfect time to see how pure, pleasing and peaceful your storage spaces look. Push through your resistance and embrace the luxury of gazing into scented linen closets, a pantry stocked with healthy foods and organized dresser drawers. In the process you will also be moving toward inner wellness.

Here are six ways to bring out the best in those out of sight places:

n First, empty everything out. By exposing the contents, you can see what you have, what can go and what you will keep. Then clean the inside thoroughly or refresh the interior with a coat of paint before organizing and returning what you want to keep.

n Go through your clothes closet and give away anything that doesn't fit you now or look great. Group similar things together and then by color. Things you are unsure about can be put on their hanger backward. If you wear it, turn the hanger around. After six months, whatever is still on the hanger backward can be recycled.

n Put all of your kitchen utensils in a cardboard box. As you need something, pull it out. After six months, anything that's still in the box can be given away. Space savers include stacked wire racks on the inside of kitchen cabinets and lazy Susans. Square or oblong baskets can double as a drawer and be stored on an open shelf in the refrigerator.

n Plastic bins with lids are great because they stack. Use small gift boxes as dividers for your catchall drawers. Tin cans, decorative baskets and flowerpots can all be recycled and used for containers.

n Utilize wasted space behind doors with over the door hooks. Canvas hanging racks with pockets can store shoes, first-aid supplies and toiletries. Decorative storage boxes on wheels can be easily moved and stored under beds.

n Store similar things together. When labeling closed containers, be specific. For cubbies, stack boxes and bins against one wall so you have room to move things in and out.

Kater Leatherman is a home stager, professional organizer and yoga teacher. Her book, "MOVING ON: One Woman's Quest to Create Space for Change," is available for purchase. To order, go to www.katerleatherman.com or e-mail her at katerleatherman@gmail.com.--

Post your comments » Round 2: Snow expected to fall today, Wednesday Fast on the heels of the largest 24-hour snowfall to hit the Frederick County since 1983, meteorologists are predicting another round of heavy snow and wind to hit today. The National Weather Service issued a winter storm warning Monday afternoon for the area, including Frederick County, and said 10 to 20 inches of snow is possible by Wednesday night. Weather-related closings, delays A list follows of weather-related closings and cancellations for Monday. Fire and police blotter Police search for robber School closures cause makeup schedule revision Even though Frederick County Public Schools are closed today -- using the sixth snow day this school year -- the school system will not hold school on the Monday Presidents Day holiday as the first scheduled snow makeup day. Crowds pay respect to fallen marine Even U.S. Marines couldn't hold back tears Monday at the viewing of their colleague, Sgt. David Smith. The procession to the Frederick Christian Fellowship Church was led by Frederick County Sheriff's deputies. Dressed in full military regalia, Marines carried Smith's casket into the church followed by family members as more Marines stood at attention.