Living Simple in a Bad Economy - Part One

Living Simple in a Bad Economy-Part one

One of the biggest misconceptions that people have about simple or frugal living is that it means great sacrifice. The object of simple living or voluntary simplicity, as it is also called, is not to live as cheaply as possible but instead to see just how well you can live on less. It is entirely possible to be content and have all of your needs met and satisfied by living in a simple and frugal manner….no great sacrifices required. A vow of voluntary simplicity can bring a sense of inner peace and certainly less financial pressure. Many simple living enthusiasts think of it as a challenge that they are eager to accept. It is almost an art form…living so well on so little. So what are some of the principles of voluntary simplicity?

Eating With the Seasons – Most green folks usually refer to this as eating local or the hundred mile diet. Not only is it a very green way to eat it is budget friendly too. Foods that have to travel long distances to our plate usually cost more, so do foods that never grow in climates like ours. Eating what is in season brings the freshest ingredients to our table and it helps us save money. Canning, dehydrating, and otherwise preserving in season foods allows us to extend local eating into winter months as well for relatively little money. You could be eating delicious meal of homemade pasta and canned tomato sauce in the dead of winter and what could be more delicious than that? Eating in season may also be simplistic in itself…a meal of flax crackers, smoked Gouda cheese from a nearby dairy and berries so fresh that they explode in your mouth can be a “gourmet” meal.

Simple living for many also means growing their own food. It gives us a sense of accomplishment and an opportunity for exercise. Even in limited spaces we can grow grape tomatoes in a window box or fresh herbs on the window sill. Food does get any fresher than when you grow it yourself.

Time for Things That Matter – Simplicity will usually mean forsaking many expensive entertainment outings. Not only are they pricey but they never seem to relax us the way they should. Instead, opportunities for neighborhood walks, hikes at a state park, and reading in a comfy chair at the bookstore become an escape. Simple living enthusiasts treasure moments, events, and time with their loved ones…these are the luxuries that matter. Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe once said, “One ought every day at least, to hear a little song, read a good poem, see a fine picture, and if it were possible, to speak a few reasonable words.”

Please stop by to read part two tomorrow.