What it means to live a simple life
Nature & My experience
So what?
This post is part of a 5-part series on what it means to live a simple life. In case you missed it, refer here for our introductory post on the series.
Nature
Living a simple life can certainly be intertwined with having a close and meaningful connection with nature. Being surrounded by concrete jungles and digital world, being in nature offers tranquillity and a place where you can ground yourself. A sanctuary where you can slow down, observe delicacies of life and be present with the world can be found in nature. You can use such environment to rejuvenate yourself and get inspiration.
Nature forces you to trade screen time for beautiful landscapes, noises of cars, trucks and machinery for birds singing and fast-paced routines for leisurely walks in the woods. You can engage your senses, let go of your anxiety and allow yourself to be fully present with nature. This way, you will get a respite from the complexities of your modern life which will simplify your thoughts and worries as well as your life.
My experience
I’m not going to lie. My life is by no means simple. Yes, there are simple aspects of it and each area of my life is as simple as it gets. However, the interplay between the different areas makes things complicated.
The most common element I focus on is being close and connected to nature. It’s what I enjoy the most. I go on multiple walks a day to ground myself and have thinking time although I do sometimes check and respond to my emails to have productive walks.
I also practice mindfulness by meditating and being present. Whether I’m washing dishes, strolling through the shops, sitting at my desk, I often take a moment to have a breath and refocus on my surroundings and what I’m doing.
Whilst I do try to incorporate other elements that we’ve discussed, nature and mindfulness are my “go-to” and “fall-back” in my attempt to continue my fort in simplifying my life.
What now?
- Step outside and take a walk in nature today.
- Whether it’s your garden, a park down the street or a bike trail, spend a few moments each day outdoors.
- Disconnect from your digital world and reconnect with nature by putting your phone down and immersing yourself with natural surroundings.