You’re not alone. In today’s busy, modern, constantly connected society, it can seem like there’s always something going on – and that can be a little bit much sometimes.
In response, people have embraced the concept of simple living. Living simply has become more and more popular over the last few years, as people have prioritized relationships, time, hobbies, nature, and getting back to basics.
Keep reading for answers to some of your biggest questions about simple living, like:
- What is simple living?
- What’s the difference between minimalism and simple living?
- How do I start living more simply?
What is Simple Living?
Not quite sure what simple living actually means?
While the definition can be Roulette slightly different for everyone, there are a few common threads that connect those who choose a simple life.
People who choose a simple life often live with less stuff. They focus on the essentials and limit things that aren’t necessary for their life.
Simple living can also focus on self-sufficiency and related ideas – growing and making your own food, embracing crafts and handmade items, and choosing not to rely on modern conveniences.
Every person’s form of simple living looks different. You don’t have to be a homesteader to embrace aspects of living a simpler and more intentional life.
What’s the Difference Between Minimalism and Simple Living?
Simple living and minimalism are often used interchangeably. And that’s because there is quite a bit of overlap between the two.
Minimalism focuses on the idea that ‘less is more.’ Minimalism by definition is “a style or technique that is characterized by extreme spareness and simplicity.”
As the concept of minimalism has gained popularity in recent years, the way people practice it varies considerably. You can find all types of minimalists who focus on different aspects of simplifying.
With minimalism, people tend to focus on the stuff. At its core, it is about removing the excess.
Simple living is a broader concept that is more of a lifestyle. Minimalists live simply, but it’s also possible to simplify without ever becoming a minimalist.
The goal of living simply is to focus on what matters most to you, like family, friends, and shared experiences. It’s about limiting your distractions and simplifying your life, which can also involve slowing down when needed.
When embracing a simpler lifestyle, you learn to be more content with less. It’s not that stuff is never a temptation, but you do grow to see how stuff doesn’t hold lasting significance and importance in life.
Is Living a Simple Life Better?
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to life. Some people prefer to immerse themselves in their hobbies. Others love nothing more than focusing on work and achieving the next big career move.
There are maximalists and there are minimalists in the world who are both happy with the path they’ve chosen.
However, I’ll admit I do have a bias. I believe many people would benefit from living more simply. We live in a world that focuses on excess and consumerism.
We’re encouraged to live beyond our means because we ‘deserve’ it.
Choosing to live more simply is countercultural. But if you’re ready to choose quality over quantity and prioritize the things that make you happy (even if they aren’t popular), it can be a great step toward finding more peace and fulfillment in life.
Why is Simple Living Not So Simple?
Simple living is about focusing on the simple things in life. Decluttering gives you a simpler space that prioritizes functionality and comfort over flashiness.
If you focus on simple foods, you opt for minimally processed, or perhaps even grow your own, and cook as often as you can.
Simpler schedules allow for plenty of free time to pursue hobbies and to just be. Rest and balance are encouraged with simple living.
Living a simpler life doesn’t happen overnight. It takes a lot of intention and effort to alter your expectations and behaviors.
Cutting back and changing your habits can be hard. But while making the move to live simply may feel anything but simple, it’ll be worth it in the end, because…
A Simple Life is a Happy Life
By living a simple life and focusing on the things that really matter, you’re almost guaranteed to be happier.
Without the distractions, noise, and stress brought upon us by cluttered surroundings, too much technology, processed foods, and endless noise, it’s easier to feel happy.
What are the Health Benefits of Simple Living?
Simple living doesn’t just feel good. Simple living is actually good for you.
From making it easier to rest at night to lowering your blood pressure, there are quite a few health-related benefits associated with living a simple life.
1. Choosing A Simple Life Frees Up Your Time for Creativity
When you embrace a simple life, you cut down on the amount of stuff you have to deal with.
There’s less stuff to clean and few appointments to manage – which means more time for you to tap into your creativity and do the things you love.
Dance, draw, sing, paint, craft – whatever you want. Giving yourself the time and space you need to create can be hugely beneficial to your mental and physical health.
2. Less Stimulation Allows for Better Concentration
For many, living a simple life does mean living with less stuff. Less clutter, fewer electronics, and not as much to deal with will put you in a better space to focus on whatever you need to – work, hobbies, and conversations with family.
After spending years surrounded by screens, stereos, and constant electronic buzz, you might be surprised to see just how well you can actually focus when you eliminate those distractions.
3. Brain Function Improves When You Watch Less Television
For many who choose to embrace a more simple way of living, television is typically not watched every single night for hours on end.
And that’s a good thing because studies have shown that those who watch more television experience cognitive decline – which isn’t something any of us want.
4. Simple Living Can Reduce Stress
For many, one of the biggest benefits of simple living is the fact that it leads to way less stress. Without as much to worry about, you can say goodbye to sky-high stress levels.
Studies have shown that cortisol levels, which is the stress hormone, are higher in cluttered spaces. This is especially true for women. Once the clutter is removed, there was also less stress.
Stress contributes to a host of different health problems, from poor sleep to heart issues, making it a great issue to address.
5. Living Simply Helps You Sleep Better
Having adequate sleep is an integral part of living a healthy lifestyle. If you don’t sleep well, it can cause a host of health problems.
When you have less on your plate, it’s easier to wind down at the end of the day and fall asleep. Decluttering your bedroom will create a more calming space with fewer distractions.
Keep technology out of your bedroom to create an optimal environment for getting high-quality sleep.
