Living with less can seem inaccessible; Especially when it comes to changing consumerist habits. The advertising industry and the internet do not make it any easier for us. Non the less, there are many advantages to minimalism. From improved health to a flourishing bank account. I hope one or all of these 7 benefits of minimalism inspires and gives you a good reason WHY!
On those days when you are battling yourself against punching in your card number; And making that impulsive purchase you know you do not really need. A strong ‘why’ is essential.
THE 7 BENEFITS OF MINIMALISM
1.SPACE
Decluttering creates space in our lives.
The gift of space lets you have a blank canvas and room to breathe.
Ironically people believe this is where minimalism ends which is quite sad.
Because what space gives you is an invitation to do the exact opposite.
And start painting because you know what is necessary and what is distracting.
You can fill your life with things you know are important and useful.
Since there is less clutter, you have the ability to give these important things the attention that they need.
Surrounding yourself with only what is valuable; Puts you in a state of contentment.
Having peace with yourself and the world.
2.MORE TIME AND MONEY
This goes without saying that buying less can save you money.
More so, investing in quality over quantity. This puts your money to good use and avoids waste.
Also, because you are buying less and only what is needed, you most likely won’t be getting into debt.
Since you understand the flaws of a consumerist lifestyle.
Plus, research proves that there is a link between materialism and higher financial debt.
For example, The journal of economic psychology by Ragnar.B. Gardasdottir;
Implies that Iceland’s high rising levels of debt before the country’s economic collapse in October 2008, was a result of consumer culture.
In this case, we see that consumerism and the culture of greed are one of the greatest factors of debt.
However, learning to live with less takes our focus off material possessions and onto experiences.
As a result, we are probably going to save much more money
And TIME; We will not push ourselves to work for such long hours in order to achieve social status.
Freeing up time for more important/valuable things that are often neglected like faith, family, relationships, and community.
3.POSITIVE IMPACT ON OUR HEALTH AND RELATIONSHIPS
According to Katelyn Gorby’s health benefits of minimalism, clutter can affect people both mentally and physically.
It causes stressful home environments.
Which can and do lead to physical ailments like elevated blood pressure and depression.
In this regard, tests were performed to further research this correlation between a simplistic minimal lifestyle and improved internal health.
Through the observation of cortisol levels in the bodies of voluntary minimalist-religious groups such as; the Amish catholic monks and Mennonites;
It was found that these groups had lower stress levels and did not experience traditional elevated blood pressure with age.
In addition, further studies show that 54% of Americans are feeling overwhelmed by their clutter.
And 78% are finding it hard to deal with all the stuff they have accumulated.
Which is quite sad.
Because we are becoming more and more buried in our possessions causing our stress levels to rise.
And compromising our own well being
However, pursuing a minimalist lifestyle helps us declutter our homes and lives.
Which in return simplifies our lives and keeps the stress away.
Contributing to better relationships with ourselves along with those around us.
4.POSITIVE IMPACT ON OUR ENVIRONMENT
You can help the environment in the process too.
Studies like Tim kaiser’s Ecopsychology,vol1, no 4 based on relevant theoretical and empirical evidence; Have showed the connection between materialism and a lack of concern for the environment.
Overindulging in stuff leads to waste and is not good for the environment.
On the other hand, a simple lifestyle helps combat this;
Through consuming only what you need.
Therefore, becoming a better steward of the planet.
5.INCREASED SELF AWARENESS AND DEVELOPMENT
Also, more space in your life acts as a vehicle to intentionality.
Which is a powerful catalyst to increased self-awareness and development.
By discovering your values and beliefs; You get a deeper understanding of who you are.
This in return acts as an anchor against the ever-changing currents of life and society.
6.IT DOES WONDERS FOR YOUR MENTAL HEALTH
According to Princeton University decluttering your space may contribute to improved attention, concentration and focus.
As a result, you live a life of clarity and purpose.
This means you are less likely to feel depressed or lost.
7.PROMOTES WELLBEING
Materialism is linked to lower levels of personal well-being.
Theoretical approaches in psychology; Like the analysis by Dittmar, H. Rod Bond, Megan Hurst, Tim Kasser (2014) agree that there is a relationship between materialism and personal well-being.
They go deep into explaining how prioritizing money and associated aims hurts an individual’s well-being.
This makes a lot of sense because money is not an end in itself.
Therefore, it can not satisfy the soul.
Since minimalism prioritizes experiences and people over possessions
Our lives can be more abundant and fulfilling.
A fulfilled life is a healthy life.
In conclusion, The 7 benefits of minimalism is a list meant to inspire you on to a journey of simple and intentional living.
Please share your experiences or even challenges by living a comment.
I would really love to hear from you or help any way I can.