4 Steps To Living A Simple Life – EDITED

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“Observe the life by cause and consequence. Explore the life of wisdom. Treat the life by equality. Complete the life by love” -Buddha

A simple life enhances our spiritual connection that leads to a peaceful spirit, tranquil heart, and appreciation for the abundance of life sustaining resources.  Oftentimes, we get caught up in the busyness of life satisfying egotistic demands with consumerism, excessive consumption, and overcommitment that results in exhaustion and depletion. Burdened with self-imposed and external demands, we find ourselves giving from a half-filled or empty cup. Our lives become complicated with checklists, schedules, and rushing to get things done with few memorable moments. In the midst of all of these activities, whether at home, work, or a social gathering, many feel alone, unfulfilled, and yearning for a deeper connection with themselves, others and the world around them.

When we put our lives in proper perspective, the quality of life is enhanced with more meaningful and enriching experiences. Life is less complicated and more flexible with adaptability to change. A simple life enhances our spiritual connection through balance, heart-centered living, positive detachment, and global stewardship that brings peace and joy.

Balance

“Maintain a state of balance between physical acts and inner serenity, like a lute whose strings are tuned” -Buddha

Living a balanced life is essential to our well-being. This begins with caring for ourselves, engaging in enjoyable activities, and living within our means.  Awareness of the integration of the mind, body and soul connection enhances our capacity to adhere to a personal self-care program. This includes continuing to improve yourself, investing in meaningful activities, and being self-disciplined and focused on personal goals. Fine tuning our lives and striving for a state of inner harmony leads to a healthier and happier life.

Heart-centered living

“Compassion means cultivating a good heart and practicing acts of love, kindness, and compassion” -Buddha

Simplistic living is being pure in heart and building positive relationships. Heart-centered communication increases observational skills and listening with an open mind that enhances mutual engagement. Fostering peace and understanding allows us to meet people where they are without judgment. Being compassionate with ourselves and taking care of our own emotional health heightens our ability to be more caring, tolerant, and sensitive to others. Being present in our lives, we create memorable moments and radiate natural joy.

Positive detachment

“The root of suffering is attachment” -Buddha

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Positive detachment is a healthy approach to a simple life that enables us to gracefully let go. It is not indifference but enables us to be more accepting and peaceful.  Whether we are releasing thoughts, beliefs, opinions or habits that no longer serve us; relinquishing the need to control outcomes, or decluttering our physical environment, the foundation is laid for self-liberation.

The illusion of ownership and fear of loss leads to anxiety and unhappiness. The realization that nothing is permanent puts life into proper perspective. Practicing positive detachment makes us more mindful of making healthy choices and being intimately involved in our own well-being.

Global stewardship

“The Earth is not just our environment. We are the Earth and the Earth is us. We have always been one with the Earth” -Thich Nhat Hanh

Aspirations for global stewardship is a recognition of our interconnectedness. Acknowledgement of our oneness magnifies our responsibility to humanity. Global stewardship, reflected in ecological sustainability within the spiritual context, is living from the realm of being in the world. As we simplify our lives, we become less self-absorbed and more concerned about others and our common residence.

“Walk softly upon the earth” is a phrase of Native American origin that is a metaphor for our interdependence and responsibility for the health of our world. The earth supplies us with abundant resources that are beneficial to all. Essential to our well-being is the awareness of our consumption, use of resources, and preservation of our natural environment. Whether it’s conserving water, shopping wisely, recycling, volunteering for community clean-up projects, we can set our intention and take deliberate action to make life less complicated and sustainable for humanity.

Conclusion

A simple life is a spiritual life that enables us to embrace the fullness of life. Being less distracted, we become focused on what really matters. Take time for self-reflection and self-introspection.  Adopting a simple lifestyle brings peace and joy. By maintaining balance, living a heart-centered life, practicing detachment, and being a good steward with concern for the well-being of humanity, we open the space for truly living and experiencing a genuine connection with ourselves and the world around us.