Every day living can reach frantic exhausting levels. Oftentimes aspirations outreach energy levels between our daily obligations, the things we have to do, the things we need to do for others and then often at the bottom of the priority list is what we want to do for ourselves. That’s why we need to come back from time to time to a simple living.

It’s Ok To Say No

Something I’ve learned in the last couple of years is that I don’t have to do it all. It’s ok to say no, no to social engagements, no to helping out, no to cleaning the house today. Being rested and having adequate energy are essential to living a happy life. And while having a tidy house is nice, it isn’t essential.

So I’ve been trying to bring more simplicity into my life. This is something that I really have to work at, being aware of must do obligations, and assessing energy before accepting new things to do. My old inclination was to just say yes, jump right in, but occasionally now I have the foresight to refrain.

Another way to look at this is to reorder priorities, putting wellfulness and self love higher up on the list. Safeguarding your own peace of mind and happiness which also spreads out to those around you.

Do You Own Your Things, Or Do They Own You?

The idea of simplicity in our things also relates to this. Simplicity in what we need to own, if we scale back on our belongings we don’t need to exert so much energy taking care of them and we don’t need to work so hard to earn the money to buy them. Do you own your things, or do they own you? If we don’t have to work so hard to earn money we have time for other things that are good for us – a walk outdoors, visiting with a friend, or going to yoga for example. The simple living may be much more satisfying.

Streamlining In The Kitchen

When it comes to cooking I really need to be aware. I can plan some pretty darn complicated meals and when I take a good hard look at what I’m contemplating I often start to scale back.

I start looking for ways to streamline and simplify while still putting a great meal on the table. Recipes with just a few ingredients, using a few prepared items along with homemade ones, and things that can be made ahead are all some tricks to use when trying to preserve your own peace of mind.

In the past I wouldn’t have dreamed of having company over for a dinner of soup, salad, and good bread, but now I do. I make a simple blender soup, prepare a salad with ready to eat greens and a homemade dressing. I pop some bread in the oven to warm, and I can have dinner on the table in less than half an hour. And I have the time to sit down and visit with my friends and family. Peace and contentment:  the luxury of simple living.

SparkYourBloom Today And Everyday!