Today’s culture seems to be in a pursuit of more. We have allowed the material world we live in to rob us of a simple lifestyle.
My recent devotional focused on the art of simplicity. I was challenged to purge old clothes, clean out my car and organize my room. I am a self-diagnosed hoarder, so getting rid of material things wasn’t easy, but the outcome was worth it.
We tend to focus on tangible aspects of simple living, like de-cluttering, but that barely touches the surface of simplicity.
Living simply doesn’t mean forsaking all of your belongings and claiming the wilderness as your new home, nor does it mean adopting a self-righteous attitude about money.
To live a simple life means to be present and empowered, to make the choice to create a life you love without clutter.
I have experienced a new freedom and self-control in my life since adapting a few characteristics of a simplistic lifestyle.
My favorite benefit of simple living is having more engaged relationships. I chose to take at least 30 minutes every day to turn off all my technology. It can be hard to connect with anyone in the flesh when we are hyper-connected to our computers and phones. Our minds are bombarded with information, so unplugging gives us a calm platform to listen and engage with others. This has not only improved my relationship with friends, but also with God. I have healthier relationships because I take time to shut off my phone, be still and listen.
Better health and self care are other benefits from living a simple life. Simplicity can lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of disease, according to bemorewithless.com. When we lessen commitments and obligations, and remove stress-inducers such as debt, crappy jobs and hurtful relationships, we have more time to take care of our heart and mind.
We also free up resources, which allows us to need less, be happy and gives us more time to consider what’s important. Instead of trying to live up to the standards that someone else sets for us, we can be who we want to be, which is more loving, caring and giving people.
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