Simplicity the KISS of death?

We’re doing the best that we can but at times may feel overwhelmed with all the things we’re told we should be doing. One of the latest is simplicity but it may feel like the kiss of death adding to the stress so I’ll Keep It Seriously Simple and hopefully add a pinch of pleasure:

1. Consume Less
Keep your wallet in your pocket. If you’re consumed with consuming dig into your inventive tickle trunk and come up with ways to buy less and live more sustainably, it’s time to reduce and reuse. Some ideas to start:

 Volunteer with a friend rather than going shopping.
 Give the gift of home made chutney (what is that stuff anyway?) or baking instead of a something that’ll make the re-gift rounds (it’s very important to test out the baking before handing it over so indulge!)
 Try a free trade party, not Harper and Obama style, share clothes between friends.
 Use a site like http://www.freecycle.org/ (a grassroots, nonprofit movement of people who are giving (& getting) stuff for free in their own towns) to give away unwanted stuff.

2. Clear a Space
Have you been Feng Shui-ed? Forbid if you have your back to the door or a mirror facing the entrance! Skeptical or not this way of purposefully arranging an environment so that it positively affects those who live there involves both practical and some pretty cool ideas. Here are a few ideas to open space and live more simply:

 Clear your clutter, ship out the old decreasing all that stagnant energy which will open up your receptivity to new.
 Open the windows to keep it fresh and let the energy flow freely.
 Create your own yoga, meditation or reading room. It’ll be a space for you to take a deep breath, ground yourself and sooth your soul. Pick warm colours, surround yourself with rocks, sand and bamboo and chant your heart out, or just all your books and a cozy chair and blanket.

3. Connect
To simplify life, cherish meaningful connections by:

 Providing opportunities for others and yourself to make meaningful connections. How about a day at the park, barbecue or drop in on new neighbours by foot or bike. Nothing beats the outdoors to inspire connecting.
 Being yourself and smiling…people want to connect.



It’s that simple.