The Joy of Simple Living

We often discuss the environment, global warming, and related issues, but individual actions can significantly contribute to a better, more livable world. One practical approach is adopting simple living. This article doesn’t provide a strict list of dos and don’ts; instead, it encourages readers to define and refine their lifestyles as they progress. The essence of this approach is to find disciplined enjoyment in life, benefiting both oneself and the surrounding environment.

Embracing Simple Living

Defining ‘Simple’

In simple living, the term ‘simple’ is crucial. It serves as an adjective that characterizes the way of living. The word ‘simple’ can be defined in several ways:

Easy to understand or deal with

Plain and unmixed

Not decorative, luxurious, grand, or sophisticated

Modest

Free of deceit

Lucid, natural, neat, sober, and fundamental

Sincere

These attributes encapsulate simple living, offering a complete and genuine package of peace and comfort.

Motivations for Simple Living

People seek simple living for various reasons, including spirituality, health, environmental concerns, and economics. Regardless of the initial motivation, these reasons often converge into a wholesome experience of tranquillity and contentment.

The Essence of Simple Living

The core of simple living is the disciplined enjoyment of life while caring for others and the environment. Engaging in simple pleasures is a dynamic way to experience the joys of simple living. However, simple living demands more than just enjoying simple pleasures; it requires a change in attitude and lifestyle, aligning one’s actions with a conscious effort to live modestly. This reversal of outwardly rich but inwardly poor living is crucial.

Practical Aspects

The most common form of simple living involves voluntarily adjusting life to meet basic needs, reducing waste and the ego of abundance. As accurately stated, “Wealth consists of not having great possessions, but having few wants,” and “The shortcut to riches is subtracting from one’s desires.”

To begin living simply, avoid consumerism and reduce the need for purchased goods. The extent to which one can minimize essentials depends on practicality and the challenge of living in a materialistic society. While extremely frugal living may harm the economy, it benefits the environment.

Conclusion

Living with minimal material needs is a hallmark of simple living, but its true strength lies in the purity of consciousness. This allows individuals to explore and practice ever-evolving guidelines of simple living, enjoying every moment.

-by Promod Puri

promodpuri.com