What does it mean to live simply? By living a simple life you can reduce the noise and clutter in your life. This allows you to focus on the things that truly matter to you. As you may have noticed the Simple & Sweet Blog’s mission statement is Making Life Sweet While Keeping It Simple. I am a true believer that keeping things simple is a great way to find appreciation for the little things, reduce stress, and achieve goals!
When I began thinking about what I wanted to focus on this year, a few things came to mind. Firstly, my family- I want to be more present and enjoy every second with my girls and strengthen my relationship with Doug. Secondly, I want to become healthier, both physically and mentally. I want to continue to increase my fitness regimen as well as focus on mindfulness and gratitude for everything that I have. You can get so caught up in the day to day and what’s new that you forget to focus on what you have. By living your life in more simple terms you will gain time, space and energy.
Below are some suggestions that I have found useful in simplifying my daily life.
- Start by listing out the 5 things you value most. This will allow you to visualize and solidify the items you want to focus your attention on.
- Declutter!! Organize your spaces one small space at a time. Free up space by getting rid of the things you no longer need or use. When possible, donating these items or passing them on to someone who would appreciate having them is a great way to go. I have found having less clutter in the house improves my state of mind as well.
- Develop routines- Start your day with a morning routine. Whether its some stretches when you get out of bed or a glass of water before breakfast. Start your day with something that will make your body feel better! Making a healthy activity a routine activity makes it that much more likely that you will remember to do it on a consistent basis.
- Prepare for your morning the night before. Pick out your clothes, schedule your coffee to brew, and have your breakfast and lunches planned or ready to go. A super easy breakfast is a smoothie. Check out my Berry Smoothie and Green Mango Smoothie recipes for a great on the go breakfast.
- Take the time to meditate. According to research meditation can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep, reduce age related memory loss, and decrease blood pressure.
- Stay active. Exercising not only benefits the body, but also the mind. It is recommended to get at least 60 minutes of physical activity per day. Whether that is taking a walk, running, working out, or yoga it is important to stay active at all ages.
- Set a consistent sleep schedule. Get to bed earlier and make an effort to wake up thirty minutes earlier than you typically do now. Try to go to sleep and wake up at the same time every day.