How A Simple Life Makes You Happy

We all crave peace amid the hurly-burly of daily life, and our gurus tell Christabel Smith how small changes can create the space you need

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How often have you come back from holiday feeling recharged, only to lose the benefit the moment you return to reality? Do you find yourself sighing “I need a break” or “I want time to myself”? We live in complex times and we can’t change the world, only the way we live in it. You don’t need to be a hermit to feel Zen-like – tiny shifts in your routine can lead to a more carefree existence.

1 Start the day with a clear mind

Imagine you’re in the middle of vacuuming or ploughing through a long to-do list on the computer when your friend calls to suggest a walk in the park. Your instant response may be to say “I’m too busy”, but every time we declare “I don’t have time”, our minds become even more hectic and, deep down, we get dispirited because we’re closing our hearts to opportunity.

DO IT Set your alarm for 15 minutes earlier than usual. Stand by a window so you can see the sky. Lengthen your spine, picturing a cord gently pulling you upwards. Take slow breaths and notice how your mind empties, making it open for possibilities.

2 Chuck out what you don’t need