Enjoying The Simple Life
Monday, August 17, 2015 
- Author: Faye H.
Thanks to technology, we are living in a very fast-paced society. That is why it is hard to think about the simple things. Simplifying your life requires that you get rid of some of life's complexities and focus more attention on the people and the things that you love. You should also de-clutter.
While some people would state that the simple life is not for them, it has many benefits. You will be able to improve your life in many ways by living a simpler life. Below are some of the benefits that you can potentially reap from living a simpler life:
Discovering Joy in Simple Things
Most people discover that they do not need a lot of material possessions after they opt to start living a simpler life. When you focus less on materialistic things, you will find that the simple things bring you joy. A child's laugh, a beautiful sunrise and spending time with friends are some of the simple things that bring people a lot of joy. Your relationships with other people may also improve, which can bring great joy to your life.
You Will Sleep Better at Night
Sleep deprivation has become an epidemic. Health experts recommend getting seven to nine hours of sleep per night. However, it is estimated that 40% of people are not getting enough sleep. Only 20% of people have reported that they sleep well. Chronic stress is one of the things that stops people from getting enough sleep.
Simplifying your life will help take a lot of the stress out of your life. That is why you will likely be able to sleep better if you reduce your stress. A little extra sleep can benefit you in many ways. Studies have found that the majority of people would be happier and healthier if they would get an extra one to 1.5 hours of sleep.
Make Time for Relaxation
Not only are many people sleep-deprived, but they also find it difficult to relax. They are always on the go and trying to get things done. This is another reason that the modern life is so stressful.
De-cluttering is an important part of living a simple life. Remove things that you do not need from your home and life. It is a lot easier for you to relax when your mind and home is free of clutter.
You Will Be More Thankful
It is amazing how many people can have a lot of material possessions but still be dissatisfied with what they have. Living a simple life makes it easier for you to be thankful for the little things. When you take away all of the non-essential things, you will realize what really matters. Grateful people are not only happier, but they are also healthier.
You Will Be Able To Focus More On Your Diet
Many people today are dying from diseases that can often be prevented. Following a healthy diet can help you reduce your risk of many diseases. However, because many people live a very hectic life, they cannot prepare healthy meals because they are short on time. They often eat fast food, which can contribute to many health problems.
In fact, the Center for Disease Control has stated that there are more people dying from lifestyle-related diseases than infectious diseases. If you live a simpler life, then you will have a lot more time on your hands. You will be able to devote this time to preparing nutritious meals.
Simon Ussher is the co-director for a global organization called Simplicity Institute. Ussher has done a lot of research on people who live a simpler life. He has found that people who live a simple life have a tendency to eat more unprocessed, fresh foods. They also grow more of their own foods.
Less Likely To Abuse Alcohol And Drugs
There was a study that examined the link between materialism and alcohol/drug use. The study was lead by Tim Kasser who is a psychology professor at Knox College. The study found that there is a link between materialism and poor health. They also found that people who place a lot of value on material possessions are more likely to abuse drugs and alcohol.
People who focus a lot of their time and attention on material possessions may still feel a void in their life. They may attempt to fill this void with drugs and alcohol. Drug and alcohol can have an adverse effect on health.
Kasser is also the author of a book entitled "The High Price Of Materialism." In the book, he encourages people to stop focusing all of their attention on money and material possessions. He encourages them to try to simplify their life. Additionally, Kasser says that people should focus on what they can subtract from their life rather than add to it.
