None of us are a stranger to busy schedules, too much screen time, not enough down time, and often putting the needs of others before our own. 21st Century life is FULL ON and don’t we know it! That’s where National Simplicity Day on July 12th comes in. Founded way back in 1817 by Henry David Thoreau, the idea is to leave behind the complicated world that we live in and experience the feeling of truly being in the moment.
But what does that look like? We’ve come up with 5 ways that you can implement, either throughout one day or throughout the week to try to re-connect with yourself, with the moment and to take life back to basics.
1) Get outside and enjoy nature
It’s so easy to get caught up inside either working, managing the home, or spending too long at the sewing machine without taking breaks. When did you last look up at the beautiful sky, that pretty cloud formation or the sunlight dancing on the trees? Head outside and enjoy some time in nature. You may want to leave your phone at home to avoid the temptation to look at it, or perhaps you want to capture some of nature’s beauty with some photos. Either way, make sure you look all around you with curiosity, notice things, and be in awe of nature all around you.
2) Reduce screen time
We get it. Being without your phone or a screen can be tough. So why not make the effort to reduce your screen time? Maybe just allow yourself on the phone for an hour at the end of the day, or a quick ten minutes at lunchtime. See what a difference it makes to your day. You may find it makes you more productive, or even more aware of what’s going on around you. Give it a try!
3) Work on a hand sewing or hand quilting project
Our sewing machines are very much pride and joy in our lives, and you can’t deny the their speed and efficiency for helping us make quilts and all the things. However, sometimes it’s good to take a step back, slow down, and enjoy the process, not just race to finish something. Hand quilting is a lovely way to add a finishing touch to your project, or why not try some embroidery; perhaps you could incorporate it into a larger project such as a pillow or bag. Linger over the colour of the threads, the feel of the stitches, and appreciate that what you’re stitching might not be perfect- you’re not a machine after all- but it’s considered and it’s beautiful.
4) Spend time with friends or family
How often have you started a conversation by apologising to a friend or family member because you’ve been too busy? We all do it, and sometimes it’s hard to fit everything in and speak to all the people we want to catch up with. Why not make that extra effort to connect with your loved ones? Meet up instead of just a quick phone call, or make a phone call instead of a hastily rushed text. Cherish those connections and make sure you let them know it as well, they are sure to appreciate it.
5) Take Time for Self Care
We are so busy rushing about that it’s so easy to forget to forget to look after yourself. Self-care is so important! Even if it’s just for 15 minutes a day, make sure you find the time to do something you love. Feed your soul and do something that brings you joy. Use your planner to write down all the things you love to do, and try to make those things a priority.
We hope these ideas have inspired you ahead on National Simplicity Day! Even if you just try a couple of them, make sure you take the time to enjoy the simple things in life, look after yourself and savour simple pleasures.
