LOWERING

dont chop the springs it becomes an insurance issue
most shock absorbers will allow about 30-35mm before becoming an issue with bottoming out more importantly the lower springs are normally stiffer so a standard shock will have a harder time controlling a stiffer spring.
with the correct offset wheel I was able to run 195/40/16's with 75mm lowered car on custom shortened shock absorbers


with the wrong offset a 195/50/14 rubbed badly (cut the tyre) on a non lowered car.

cheers,

GTP

get some photos of yours up...might be able to tell how low it is
cutting springs will void insurance if you have an incident...your choice. Should slightly stiffen them and make them seat awkwardly
to determine offset measure from mounting face of hub to inside edge (closest) of Guard then do some maths. Car should be at ride height when measured. or try several sets of wheels and tyres of the prefered size from mates etc.
My shocks were custom made for me. Sealed unit Race spec valving and oil, 70mm shorter body and piston/shaft the shaft was also 20% thicker. effectively take a shock absorber and cut 70mm from middle and rejoin. then shorten shaft equal amount. Not to be done at home. Or find a shorter insert than the swift one from another car...good luck there.
For example I use Rx7 inserts in my escort to shorten the strut by 50mm

cheers.

GTP