The Simple Life Is Therapeutic

Consumerism can be traumatizing, not only for the planet, but also for the consumer. Unlike other more explosive events, consumer trauma is a slowly simmering experience that often goes unnoticed due to its perceived normality. 

But it is not normal, and treating it is a good idea.

Those perpetuating the conditions that cause the trauma, recommend more of the same as a course of therapy. If you are feeling traumatized, "Retail Therapy" is their answer. 

In a recent post HERE I proposed that there are many "therapies" more effective than Retail Therapy. I gave 5 examples that came to mind. Then, the astute readers of this blog expanded on that thread in the comment section. 

In reading those comments I thought about how this blog is therapeutic for me, and Linda. We sincerely hope that our readers find it that way, too. 

Technically speaking, a therapy is a treatment administered by professionals after making a diagnosis. A therapy is a "process rooted in science and proven effective in both research and clinical trials".

However, many things can be therapeutic (possess healing powers) without being outright therapies. Like the Simple Life Therapy that so many of us engage in for fast acting relief. While the evidence supporting it may be largely anecdotal and case study, it is still robust.

Having said that, some of the ideas proposed by readers are not only therapeutic, but are also bonafide recognized therapies unto themselves. Art Therapy and Music Therapy both fit into the this category. 

As I looked at that first post, I realized that the things my suggestions and those in the comments had in common was the simple life, as well as creative thinking, as Nancy pointed out. The two go naturally together.

When one lives simply, there is more time for intentionality and creativity. Freed from the rigours of materialistic pursuit, and the amount of work it takes to support such a lifestyle, one can focus on more enjoyable and balanced choices.

"For fast acting relief, try slowing down" is a prescription that, like a magical tincture, immediately reduces stress with no adverse side effects. That is one reason why the Slow Movement exists.

Indeed, one of the most attractive things about simple living is that as a practice, it has demonstrable healing properties, just like all the things on our revised list of naturally therapeutic activities (I will post the definitive list in my next post).

In living simply, one engages in all manner of health-promoting therapeutic activities that provide the relief required to recover from a variety of maladies. 

If I could, I would be Dr. Simplicity, get my prescription pad out for those diagnosed with

• Consumeritis, 
• Stuffication,
• Rat Race Burnout, 
• Excessive Speedism, 
• Industrial Disease,
• Nature Deficit Disorder
• Affluenza, and 
• Keeping Up With The Jones' Syndrome, 

and write upon it: 

"Elixir of Living Simply" - take large dose daily, repeat frequently.

Side effects may include: being yourself, contentment, humility, attainment of deep insight into the true nature of life, joy, self-confidence, and unrestrained creativity.

Warning: May be addictive. 

Repeated use can cause you to live in harmony with nature and its cycles, and take from the Earth only that which is necessary for your sustenance.