It’s easy to get caught up in the complexities of modern life. But sometimes, all it takes is a return to the basics to find true happiness.

Rediscovering the joy of simple living isn’t about giving up all your worldly possessions. It’s about finding contentment in the small things, and making conscious choices that lead to less stress and more joy.

I’ve found 8 ways to help you embrace simplicity and rediscover the joy that comes with it. And don’t worry, I’m not going to suggest selling everything and moving to a cabin in the woods (unless that’s your thing, of course).

So let’s get started on this journey towards a simpler, happier life.

1) Declutter your space

It’s amazing how much a cluttered environment can impact our mood and stress levels.

Here’s the thing – our physical surroundings can directly influence our mental state. A messy, cluttered space can lead to feelings of overwhelm and anxiety. On the other hand, a clean, organized space can promote feelings of calm and control.

So why not start your journey to simple living with a bit of decluttering?

Now, I’m not talking about a full-on Marie Kondo-style purge (unless that’s what you want). Simply take some time to sort through your things. Get rid of items that no longer serve you or bring you joy.

You might be surprised at how much lighter you feel with less stuff around. This is the first step towards simplifying your life and rediscovering the joy in simple living.

And remember, it’s not about getting rid of everything. It’s about making room for what truly matters.

2) Reevaluate your commitments

When I took a step back and really looked at my schedule, I was shocked. My calendar was packed with meetings, social events, volunteering, and so much more. I was constantly on the go, always rushing from one thing to the next.

I realized that I was saying yes to so many things that I wasn’t leaving any room for myself. I was so caught up in being busy that I forgot to enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

So, I made a change. I started saying no to things that weren’t truly important to me. I prioritized my time and spent it on things that brought me joy and satisfaction rather than just filling my calendar.

And guess what? It worked. By reevaluating my commitments, I was able to slow down and truly enjoy the present moment. It’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made on my journey towards a simpler, happier life.

3) Embrace nature

Spending time in nature, whether it’s a walk in the park or a weekend camping trip, can do wonders for our mental and physical health.

In Japan, they have a practice called “shinrin-yoku” or “forest bathing”. This isn’t about exercise but simply being in nature, connecting with it through our senses of sight, hearing, taste, smell and touch.

Studies have shown that shinrin-yoku can reduce stress levels, improve mood, lower blood pressure, and even boost our immune system.

So why not try it? Swap the hustle and bustle of city life for the peace and tranquility of the great outdoors. It’s a simple way to reconnect with yourself and find joy in the simple things life has to offer.

4) Practice mindfulness

Living a simple life is all about being present in the moment. It’s about letting go of past regrets and future anxieties, and focusing on the here and now.

One way to do this is by practicing mindfulness. This could be through meditation, yoga, or simply taking a few minutes each day to focus on your breathing.

Mindfulness allows us to slow down and appreciate the simple things in life. It helps us to be more aware of our thoughts and feelings without getting caught up in them.

Give it a try. Even just a few minutes a day can make a big difference. You might find that it brings a sense of peace and calm to your day that you didn’t even realize was missing.

5) Nurture your relationships

In the busyness of life, we often forget the importance of nurturing our relationships with the people who matter most to us.

Our connections with friends, family, and loved ones are some of the most fulfilling aspects of life. They bring us joy, comfort, support, and love. And yet, they are often the first things to suffer when life gets hectic.

So why not take a step back and focus on these relationships? Spend quality time with your loved ones. Have meaningful conversations. Show them that you care.

Remember, a simple life isn’t about having less. It’s about making room for more of what truly matters. And there’s nothing that matters more than the people we love.

6) Limit digital distractions

There was a time when I found myself constantly checking my phone, mindlessly scrolling through social media, and answering emails at all hours. It felt like my devices were in control of me, not the other way around.

So, I made a decision. I started setting boundaries for my digital use. I designated certain times of the day as “device-free” time. I stopped checking my phone first thing in the morning and right before bed.

The change was incredible. I had more time for the things that truly mattered to me. I felt more present, more relaxed, and surprisingly, more connected.

Limiting digital distractions can free up so much time and mental space. It’s a simple change that can make a big difference in your journey towards a simpler life.

7) Prioritize self-care

In our quest to simplify, it’s essential not to overlook our own needs. Self-care isn’t an indulgence; it’s a necessity.

Self-care could mean different things to different people. It could mean taking a long, relaxing bath, reading a good book, practicing yoga, or simply getting a good night’s sleep.

Whatever your self-care routine looks like, the important thing is to make time for it. It’s not selfish to take care of ourselves. In fact, it’s vital for our overall well-being.

By taking care of ourselves, we’re better equipped to handle life’s challenges and better able to care for others. So make self-care a priority in your journey towards simple living.

8) Live intentionally

At the heart of simple living is intentionality. It’s about making conscious decisions about how you spend your time, what you own, and who you spend your time with.

Living intentionally means making choices that align with your values and aspirations. It means saying no to the things that don’t serve you and yes to the things that bring you joy and fulfillment.

By living intentionally, you can create a life that is not just simple, but also deeply satisfying. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it. Because a life lived with intention is a life well-lived.

The essence: Finding contentment in simplicity

The beauty of simple living lies in its inherent tranquility. It’s about decluttering not just our physical spaces, but our minds and schedules as well. It’s about redefining what success means to us, prioritizing what truly brings us joy, and making room for it.

Rediscovering the joy in simple living is a journey. It’s about letting go of the unnecessary complexities and embracing the peace that comes with simplicity.

Remember, the key to simple living is not deprivation, but intentionality. It’s about making conscious choices that align with your values and aspirations.

As Leo Tolstoy once said, “There is no greatness where there is not simplicity.” So why not give it a try? Embrace the beauty of simplicity and see how it can transform your life. Because in the end, a life lived simply can be a life lived fully.