Another incredible reminder
that being in nature serves - especially when backpacking with minimal
provisions - is the value of simplicity.
Simplicity happens on two levels: the external and internal. Obviously, as people slow down the pace of their lives, they have more time and energy to engage in earth-friendly practices and to be of service to others. But something else takes place on an internal level. When we remove the material and scheduling clutter from our lives, we seem to open up the space within ourselves for deep caring - caring for the earth, other people, future generations, and life on the planet. Simplicity brings out the best in humanity and allows the awakening in which we experience our connection to other people and nature. This leads us to behave in ways that make this world a better place.
Here are 10 keys to living a fulfilling life of simplicity:
1. Limit material possessions to what is needed or cherished
2. Meaningful work (whether paid or volunteer)
3. Quality relationships with friends and family
4. Joyful and pleasurable hobbies
5. A conscious and thoughtful relationship with money
6. Connection to community
7. Sustainable consumption
8. Healthy living - including exercise, adequate sleep, and nutritious food
9. Practices that foster personal growth - yoga, meditation, journal writing, self-help
10. Regular connection to nature
Naturally, specific lifestyles of simplicity will vary enormously because what each person needs or cherishes is a subjective determination. But, if you incorporate these practices into your life, you'll be amazed at the difference you'll feel, both inside and out.
It's only been 8 years since I strapped on a backpack and embarked on my 3-year adventure in the developing world. What I learned through these lessons of simplicity has made a profound impact on my life - one that has become even more noticeable in my current existence as a San Francisco urbanite. Less really is more. As more people learn the art of simplicity, and cultivate the caring that comes from it, the more we can hope for real, lasting change in our world.
"I do believe in simplicity. It is astonishing as well as sad, how many trivial affairs even the wisest thinks he must attend to in a day; how singular an affair he thinks he must omit. When the mathematician would solve a difficult problem, he first frees the equation of all incumbrances, and reduces it to its simplest terms. So simplify the problem of life, distinguish the necessary and the real. Probe the earth to see where your main roots run." - Henry David Thoreau
Simplicity happens on two levels: the external and internal. Obviously, as people slow down the pace of their lives, they have more time and energy to engage in earth-friendly practices and to be of service to others. But something else takes place on an internal level. When we remove the material and scheduling clutter from our lives, we seem to open up the space within ourselves for deep caring - caring for the earth, other people, future generations, and life on the planet. Simplicity brings out the best in humanity and allows the awakening in which we experience our connection to other people and nature. This leads us to behave in ways that make this world a better place.
Here are 10 keys to living a fulfilling life of simplicity:
1. Limit material possessions to what is needed or cherished
2. Meaningful work (whether paid or volunteer)
3. Quality relationships with friends and family
4. Joyful and pleasurable hobbies
5. A conscious and thoughtful relationship with money
6. Connection to community
7. Sustainable consumption
8. Healthy living - including exercise, adequate sleep, and nutritious food
9. Practices that foster personal growth - yoga, meditation, journal writing, self-help
10. Regular connection to nature
Naturally, specific lifestyles of simplicity will vary enormously because what each person needs or cherishes is a subjective determination. But, if you incorporate these practices into your life, you'll be amazed at the difference you'll feel, both inside and out.
It's only been 8 years since I strapped on a backpack and embarked on my 3-year adventure in the developing world. What I learned through these lessons of simplicity has made a profound impact on my life - one that has become even more noticeable in my current existence as a San Francisco urbanite. Less really is more. As more people learn the art of simplicity, and cultivate the caring that comes from it, the more we can hope for real, lasting change in our world.
"In order to change the world, you have to get your head together first."
- Jimi Hendrix
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