Life Simplified

We rush from one place to the next. We overwork, overdo, buy too much, and spend too much. Is there a purpose to it all? Most of the time, we go through our hectic routine on autopilot until we are depleted of energy and have no time left for ourselves. To bring balance and serenity into our lives, we must simplify life.
How do we unplug and press the reset button? Here are some suggestions of simple changes of habits that may help significantly: Clear your physical surroundings. Reduce the clutter. The less we buy (this is a hard one for me), the less we have stuff to organize and clean. The less unnecessary errands we need to run, the less wasted time and money. Choose your company carefully and don’t waste time on people that suck up your energy. Resolve to invest only in relationships that give you gratification and results. Let go of activities that do not work for you anymore. Learn to say no politely and concentrate on your priorities. Try to spend less time on social media and watch less TV. Disconnect from the daily news that’s cluttering your mind with the nonstop bombardment of useless information. Pause and listen to your inner voice about the things that really matter.
In slowing down, we can enjoy activities that help us stay grounded. They do not cost a lot of money, but they are priceless. Great serenity can be found in doing gardening, hiking in nature, marveling at a stunning sunset, writing in a journal, painting, meditating, reading or just doing nothing. To find solitude, we need to disconnect occasionally from the rushed world, take a deep breath and get in touch with our souls. You may sit outdoors on a park bench and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds around you. If you choose to stay indoors, make yourself comfortable, light a scented candle and put on soft music. Learn to relax and appreciate the here and now. Creating such time helps us to contemplate and see things with clarity, but it does not happen immediately. It takes time, so take the time to replenish your spirit.
As Brenda Uelanad said, “Inspiration comes very slowly and quietly”. With our renewed energy, we find gratitude and look forward to each day. By taking time out and showing self-love we have become accountable for our own lives. We find true freedom and contentment living a life full of purpose and fulfillment.
Naomi Young is an educator of Jewish studies and a Bar/ Bat mitzvah tutor in Santa Clarita for 38 years. She’s also a published writer and an artist. Contact her at naomiyoung7@yahoo.com Visit her art website at www.naomiyoung.com