Health Benefits of Living Simply

Is simplicity a healthy approach to life? Just look at the Amish.

In America, the simple and clean-living Amish community lives longer than the general population, which has been experiencing a drop in life expectancy in recent years, despite spending record amounts of cash on health care.

The Amish experience fewer chronic conditions that have plagued the consumer-oriented population since it became more dependent on Big Ag and Big Food.

Amish children are rarely diagnosed with obesity, cancer, diabetes, or autism, while in the larger society, all these afflictions are tragically common.

Unfortunately, Big Health sees chronic conditions not as something to prevent and cure, but as markets to be exploited for profit.

The Amish are healthier despite not having easy access to modern health care in their rural settings. 

In fact, these traditional, self-reliant folks may not want to access what the modern system has to offer. Vaccines and expensive dental treatments are two such examples.

Perhaps they are healthier because of their avoidance of the entire sickness care industry. 

Or it might be due to their emphasis on maintaining traditional lives of clean living, hard work, and strong community support.

Either way, I believe that the Amish provide evidence that the more simply and traditionally one lives, the healthier they will be.

Tell us what you think in a comment below. Is the simple life the way to health, or is it possible to live a modern, consumer-oriented lifestyle dependent on profit-seeking enterprises and still be healthy?

Not Going Anywhere

I’m not going anywhere - there is enough beauty in my own location to keep me busy for the rest of my life.

I can walk out my back door, descend into the valley, and arrive at a beautiful brook in about 15 minutes. It is enough for me.

In our fast-paced, busy culture, there is a mistaken belief that going places and constantly being on the move is the key to success and personal growth. 

However, over the last couple of decades I've discovered a different path to happiness and fulfillment – a hyper-local lifestyle that embraces simplicity and nature in a rural setting.

I haven't owned or driven a car for almost five years, and I can say that I don't miss it. 

However, I must admit that becoming car-free does take some getting used to since society has become convenience addicted, and I was not immune from this affliction. 

A car is incredibly expensive to purchase, operate, and maintain. Insurance costs have soared in recent years. Additionally, driving is dangerous - just over one million people die in car accidents every year globally. 

Other than that owning a car remains the most ''convenient'' way to get around.

The last time I took a flight was 2001. Prior to take off they took me to a small room and patted me down. 

Nope, don’t miss that either.

Instead, I have found joy and satisfaction in staying put and gaining an intimate knowledge of my local area.

I have not been farther than about 50km from home for a long time, and I have survived to tell the tale. The travel industry does not want you to know this is possible or even preferable.

Here are some benefits of what many are calling localism:

1. Reduced environmental impact:

By staying in one place, you significantly reduce your ecological footprint. You'll also have the opportunity to explore and appreciate the natural beauty in your own backyard, will be more aware of local changes, and foster a deeper connection with the environment.

2. Stronger community ties: 

When you stay in one place for an extended period, you have the chance to build meaningful relationships with your neighbors and community members. This sense of belonging and connection can lead to a more fulfilling life.

3. Improved local knowledge: 

By focusing on your local area, you'll become more familiar with the resources available to you, such as local sources of food, essential businesses, and recreational opportunities. This knowledge can help you meet your basic needs more efficiently and sustainably.

4. Financial benefits: 

Living locally can save you money on transportation, housing, and other expenses associated with traveling. This extra cash can be used to invest in your well-being, such as purchasing healthier food or paying off debt.

5. Personal growth and self-discovery: 

Embracing a local lifestyle doesn't mean you have to give up on personal growth. Instead, you can focus on self-discovery through introspection, learning new skills, and forming deeper connections with your surroundings.

To start embracing a local lifestyle, consider the following steps:

1. Limit your travel: 

Reduce the number of vehicle-supported trips you take and focus on self-propelled explorations of your local area instead. Taking a walk in you neighbourhood is as good as taking a walk anywhere. There is beauty to be found wherever you live.

2. Support local businesses: 

Shop at local farmers' markets, eat at locally-owned restaurants, and support other small businesses in your community. When the big box stores eventually fail, as they should, it will be local businesses that will be helping us meet our needs.

3. Get involved in your community:

Join local clubs, volunteer for community events, and participate in local government to build connections and make a positive impact.

4. Explore nature in your area: 

Take up walking, hiking, cycling, birdwatching, or gardening to connect with the natural world around you.

5. Simplify your life: 

Embrace minimalism and declutter your home to create a more peaceful, intentional living space.

By embracing a local lifestyle, I have found joy, fulfillment, and a deeper connection to my own community and environment. 

Everything I need is here - why go anywhere else.

Give it a try and see how not going anywhere can change your life, and the world, for the better.