I made these handmade papers and they turned out so beautiful! It's incredible to think that all those once discarded papers have now transformed into something so beautiful and meaningful. I was always fond of handmade paper and have bought numerous handmade papers in past for my assignments and craft making. And I always had a desire to make handmade papers, but I assumed it would be quite challenging and require fancy equipment. However, I couldn't have been more wrong. Once I finally decided to give it a shot, I realized that creating these exquisite papers was as simple as making tea. While paper-making indeed involves intricate techniques and professional-grade equipment, if you are a beginner or seeking creative enjoyment, you'll only need a handful of easily accessible items found within the comfort of your own home. So without further ado, let's get right to the process of making handmade papers. It's a beginner-friendly tutorial and has just a few simple steps. How to Make Handmade Paper Here is a list of items you will need to make paper at home: Used paper scraps A pair of scissors A splatter screen with mesh (to use as a mold and deckle) Absorbent cotton cloth or a cotton towel A blender or a hand blender A large, shallow tub or container A sponge (if unavailable, an absorbent cotton cloth will work fine) Water Making your own handmade paper can be an enjoyable and creative process. With these simple tools and materials, you'll be well on your way to crafting beautiful, unique paper creations right at home! Step One - Making the Paper Shreds To create the paper shreds, gather old and waste paper scraps. You can use old notebooks, newspapers, brown papers, or used watercolor sheets. Employ scissors to cut the papers into small pieces; smaller ones will dissolve more quickly, resulting in smoother pulp. Next, pour some hot water over your paper shreds and let them soak for about 4-5 hours or overnight. Allowing them to soak overnight will yield a smoother pulp. Step Two - Making Paper Pulp Next, take the soaked paper and place it in a blender along with some water. Pulse the blender until it forms a smooth pulp. Alternatively, you can use a hand blender by placing the soaked paper in a large bowl and blending it for a few minutes until you achieve a pulpy consistency. The goal is to create a uniform pulp that will be the base for your handmade paper. Step Three - Setting Up the Paper-Making Station Begin by filling your large tub or container with water. Then, carefully pour the paper pulp into the water and give it a good stir, ensuring an even distribution. Now, take your splatter mesh and fully submerge it into the pulp and water mixture. Keep the screen flat and parallel to the bottom of the container. Next, gently lift the mesh screen up, allowing the water to drain through while the pulp settles on the screen. Take note not to create a layer of pulp that is too thin or too thick. A thin layer will result in very delicate paper, while too much pulp will extend the drying time significantly. For experimentation, try making three or four papers with different pulp layer thicknesses to see what works best for you. This will help you determine the ideal thickness for the type of handmade paper you desire. Step Four - Transferring the Wet Paper Sheet to a Flat Surface Now it's time to transfer the layered paper pulp onto a flat surface to form the paper sheet. This process is called "couching" (pronounced as 'coo-ching'). Begin by placing the cotton cloth on a flat surface. Carefully lift the frame, holding the wet paper pulp layer, and position it over the absorbent cotton cloth. Gently invert the mesh screen, so the wet paper now faces downwards onto the cotton cloth. Pat the top of the mesh screen with another absorbent towel or cloth to remove excess water from the wet paper. Then, carefully lift the splatter screen, leaving the paper sheet on the cloth to dry. Ensure the paper sheet is evenly laid out on the cloth, and allow it to dry naturally. Step Five - Allowing the Paper to Dry Leave the paper sheets on the cloth to dry naturally. For a faster drying process, you can use a blow dryer or place them under the sun. Depending on the thickness of the paper and the drying conditions, it may take approximately 1-2 days for the paper sheets to fully dry. Once your sheets are dry, they are ready to be transformed into beautiful thank-you cards, special notes, or used for your crafting endeavors. The unique texture and charm of handmade paper add a personal touch to any project, making your creations truly one-of-a-kind. Get creative and enjoy the satisfaction of using paper that you made with your own hands! You can share your handmade paper-making journey and let us know how it unfolded.

Life unfolds through the beauty of little moments, intricately woven within small details. Amidst our busy lifestyles, these precious gems often elude our attention. We are so profoundly consumed by the pursuit of acquiring more that we are no longer content with what we already possess. We convince ourselves that attaining a particular goal will bring us happiness. Yet, once we have achieved that very goal and relished its immense satisfaction, we find ourselves immediately driven towards a new aspiration. In the midst of our endeavors towards bigger goals, we often tend to overlook the simple pleasures that we can find in the little things around us. We need to open ourselves up to seek out those moments that can bring us joy. These simple, little moments of pure joy, when interconnected, leave you with a sense of satisfaction and contentment as the day draws to a close. I used to be someone who relied on situations and events to experience happiness. I always held the belief that launching my own blog would bring me happiness and contentment. However, upon its creation, I found myself constantly preoccupied with thoughts and concerns about the content I would post. In the midst of this process, I became oblivious to the other meaningful experiences unfolding around me. It dawned on me that what was supposed to evoke joy was, in fact, causing increased anxiety and worry. Determined to break free from this pattern, I made the conscious decision to switch off autopilot mode and redirect my focus towards the simple things that had once brought me genuine happiness. There is a plethora of little moments in a day that fill me with bliss. Below, I am writing down a few of them. I love waking up early and embracing the abundance of blessings the day brings. It grants me the privilege of spending time with myself and allows me to gather precious moments. Listening to the melodious chirping of birds throughout the day, witnessing their playful dances in my garden. Indulging in evening tea sessions with my friends. Preparing a meal that is both nourishing and fulfilling, made with love. Receiving a sweet smile from a stranger, brightening my day. Enjoying my favorite music while savoring a warm cup of tea. Feeling the gentle warmth of the sun on cold winter days. Engaging in morning meditation, taking deep breaths of fresh air. Finding joy in journaling, as I pen down my thoughts every morning. Completing a book and feeling a sense of accomplishment. Engaging in thoughtful conversations with my loved ones. Harvesting freshly plucked vegetables straight from the garden. Seeking help from a trusted individual and feeling a sense of relief knowing support is available. Embracing a warm hug, experiencing its comforting embrace. Appreciating the power of small supportive gestures. Savoring every meal on my table, feeling cherished and grateful. Witnessing the beauty of sunrise and sunset, free and breathtaking. Basking in the enchanting glow of a full moon, a celestial spectacle loved by all. Discovering joy in little moments like these can refresh your mind and help replace the stress lingering in the back of your mind. It's strange, yet amazing, how a simple shift in your focus opens you up to things that you wouldn't otherwise notice. You can create your own list of all the beautiful things you enjoy. Doing so will serve as a reminder of the abundance of beauty in your life. Moreover, it will help you integrate more of these moments into your daily routine. To make room for what you truly enjoy, it is essential to unlearn what is ineffective and obsolete in your life. By letting go of outdated habits and beliefs, you create space to embrace and cultivate the experiences that bring you genuine fulfillment.

If you're an enthusiast of magical realism, you simply can't miss out on Haruki Murakami's novels. Personally, I've been eager to dive into Murakami's world, but I've struggled with choosing the perfect starting point. I have encountered countless praises and discussions surrounding the works of the Japanese writer Haruki Murakami. And during my quest to find the perfect Murakami book to start with, I found this cute little book on Amazon. Given its size, I promptly added it to my cart and made the purchase. This short story felt like a thrilling sneak peek into Murakami's world. And as I turned the final page, the same question echoed in my mind, just like it does for every newcomer: "What did I just read?" Book Summary "Birthday Girl" by Haruki Murakami is a short story, that revolves around a young woman and how she spent her 20th birthday. The protagonist, who works as a waitress in a restaurant, finds herself unexpectedly granted a special request by her manager to serve dinner to the restaurant owner. Surprisingly, on her special day, she is granted a wish by the restaurant owner. The story begins with a young woman who works at an Italian restaurant in Japan on her 20th birthday. Her shift was progressing normally until her manager suddenly fell sick and had to go to the hospital. Before leaving, he asked her to take over the task of serving dinner to the restaurant owner, a mysterious figure whom no one except the manager has ever seen. While serving the owner dinner, she confides that it's her 20th birthday that day. In response, the restaurant owner asks her to make a wish, promising to grant it later that night as a special gift for her birthday. So What Did The Girl Wish For? The story then takes us on a journey as the girl ponders her options and carefully considers what her heart truly desires. With each revelation, we uncover more about the girl's character and the complexities of her choices. Murakami skillfully delves into themes of longing, decision-making, and the choices that shape our lives. In the end, we discover that the protagonist is recounting the story to the narrator, while the identity of the narrator remains unrevealed. The author leaves it to the reader's imagination to speculate about the narrator's identity. When asked by the narrator if her wish came true, her response is both "Yes" and "No," leaving room for interpretation. Furthermore, when questioned about any regrets regarding her wish and whether she would be happier with an alternative wish, she describes her present life, including having a husband, two kids, and driving an Audi. This portrayal of her life doesn't seem undesirable to the narrator. It's not a neatly wrapped-up story with a definitive ending. The author deliberately left the ending open-ended, allowing readers to interpret it based on their own perspective. Writing Style of Haruki Murakami Haruki Murakami is known for his distinct and captivating writing style, which combines elements of magical realism, introspection, and a touch of surrealism. This book delivers everything we have come to expect from magical realism. In his skilful storytelling, the author has described a detailed portrait of the restaurant manager, capturing his demeanour. He has also depicted the atmospheric charm of the restaurant and painted a picture of the owner's house, with the rain tracing its path on the windowpane. Yet, amidst these intricate details, the author veiled the girl's wish, leaving it to the realm of the readers' imagination. I have personal insights regarding the protagonist's wish and the narrator's identity. However, I hesitate to share them here, as it could potentially disrupt the interpretations of those who haven't experienced the book yet. I encourage readers to explore and uncover their own understandings, allowing the story to captivate them fully. Overall, I had an incredible experience reading Murakami's "Birthday Girl," and it has left me eagerly anticipating my next Murakami adventures. One of the books on my list is "Kafka on The Shore." Stay tuned for my upcoming review! I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking a fresh and captivating addition to their literary journey. For those embarking on their Murakami reading, "Birthday Girl" serves as a perfect starting point.

This book has been on my TBR list for more than 6 years, and I am glad that I have finally been able to complete this masterpiece by Khaled Hosseini. It is the author's debut novel and has been a bestseller, with more than 10 million copies sold. Alright, I'm aware that all of you have already read this book, and you're probably curious as to why I'm finally sharing my review a whopping 20 years later. However, there might be some new readers here who haven't yet experienced this book, and I genuinely want to provide them with an idea of the impact it can have. "The Kite Runner" is the story of a young boy named Amir, the son of a wealthy man, and his complex friendship with Hassan, who is the son of his father's servant. Amir comes from a privileged background, as his father is a well-respected and affluent figure in Kabul. The narrative takes place amidst the backdrop of a country in the midst of destruction. So the story starts off with Amir, now a grown man settled in America and pursuing a career as a writer. Everything is cruising along smoothly in his life until one unexpected phone call jolts him back to his childhood days in Kabul, Afghanistan. As we journey through the pages, the story then unfolds in a flashback, where Amir and Hassan are best friends, doing everything together. Amir, as the privileged son of a wealthy family, often enjoys advantages and opportunities that elude Hassan. This disparity creates a power dynamic between them, with Amir sometimes taking on the role of the dominant figure. This dynamic is further complicated by Amir's conflicting emotions of love and jealousy towards Hassan. While on the other hand Hassan's unwavering loyalty and willingness to sacrifice for Amir's happiness are profound demonstrations of true friendship. He stands up for Amir in the face of adversity, even when it means enduring hardship himself. Hassan's unwavering support and devotion ultimately highlight the depth of their bond. With the Soviet occupation of Afghanistan, the political scenario began to change, and so did the friendship of Amir and Hassan. As the story progresses, the complexities of their relationship become more apparent. Their lives were proceeding as usual until the day when Amir won the kite-fighting tournament, overflowing with joy at his victory. At this moment, Hassan, the most skilled Kite Runner in the city, rushed to retrieve the fallen kite. However, what Amir witnessed next was a horrifying act committed against Hassan, and he chose not to intervene. This single event altered the trajectory of their lives, leading to a sequence of mistakes made by Amir that shattered their friendship, leaving him burdened with a lifetime of guilt and remorse. "For you a thousand times over." The line spoken by Hassan before he sets off to retrieve the fallen kite will linger in your mind as the story unfolds. Now, I want to ensure that this review remains entirely spoiler-free, so I won't disclose any further details about the story. You simply have to read the book yourself to discover its compelling narrative. Khaled's Writing 'The Kite Runner' is Khaled Hosseini's first novel, yet his alluring writing style defies this fact. While I had always perceived Afghanistan as a country ravaged by war, burdened with weariness, and trapped in a frightening dystopia, Khaled introduced me to a different Afghanistan, revealing its rich history and beauty before the turmoil unfolded. The author's captivating depiction of Kabul's landscapes, adorned with plentiful cherry trees, lively bustling markets, historical gardens embraced by snow-covered hills, and tantalizing street food, painted a vivid picture of how enchanting and abundant Afghanistan once was. Khaled writes from the heart, crafting characters that are not simply black and white, but rather nuanced and flawed, residing in shades of grey. The protagonist of this story is flawed, not a traditional hero, and at times can make you feel a sense of disdain. Amir undergoes a remarkable journey of character development. Initially portrayed as a privileged and conflicted young boy, Amir's actions are driven by his own fears and insecurities. However, as the story unfolds, we witness Amir's transformation through guilt, redemption, and ultimately, personal growth. Overall, 'The Kite Runner' is a must-read book that resonates with readers of all ages. It weaves a captivating tale of friendship, betrayal, guilt, regret, and ultimately, redemption.

Are you someone who cherishes the notion of reading but is unsure of where to begin? If you are new to the realm of reading and want to cultivate a consistent reading practice, the crucial first step before delving into a book is to determine which literary work shall be your starting point. As a beginner, selecting the perfect book holds immense importance since it sets the tone for a consistent reading habit. Yet, for non-readers, the daunting task of deciding what to read poses the greatest challenge. In this captivating blog, I have handpicked three delightful books by the esteemed author Ruskin Bond, specially curated for beginners. These are small reads with less than 150 pages and can be completed within a few hours. The Blue Umbrella The first book on my list is "The Blue Umbrella." It is a short novella set in the hills of Garhwal, India. The story revolves around a little girl named Biniya, who acquires a beautiful Blue Umbrella from a group of tourists in exchange for her lucky leopard's claw necklace. As Biniya takes possession of the captivating blue umbrella, she unknowingly becomes the object of jealousy for some villagers, including an old shopkeeper named Ram Bharosa, who is determined to obtain the umbrella at any cost. The rest of the story delves into the unfolding events as material possession begins to overshadow the tranquillity of the shopkeeper, Ram Bharosa. The story explores themes of materialism, jealousy, and the consequences of one's actions. It delves into the complexities of human emotions, highlighting the transformative power of empathy, compassion, and forgiveness, ultimately paving the way for personal growth. The writing style is simple, and the author's evocative storytelling transports readers to the enchanting landscapes of the Garhwal hills. With his exquisite prose, Bond paints vivid pictures of the serene surroundings, evoking a strong sense of place. The mountains, valleys, and forests come alive, infusing the narrative with depth and richness. And though it is a children's novella, readers of all ages will resonate with the story due to the author's heartwarming and thought-provoking narrative. I highly recommend that new readers immerse themselves in this book to establish a daily reading practice. Angry River The second book I would like to recommend is "Angry River." It tells the story of a little girl named Sita, who resided on a secluded island encircled by a massive river alongside her grandparents. One day, Sita's grandmother fell ill, compelling her grandfather to rush her to the town hospital. In his absence, Sita found herself all alone. As the monsoon arrived, the river swelled, prompting Sita to hastily ascend a towering Peepal tree, as her grandfather had instructed her to do in case of rising water levels. However, the water continued to surge, causing the Peepal tree to uproot, leaving Sita adrift in its currents. The rest of the story revolves around Sita's survival journey. Will she make it through? Well, I am not going to give any spoilers here. To uncover the thrilling turn of events, you'll have to read the book and discover what unfolds next. "Angry River" is a story that highlights bravery, compassion, and survival. It also reveals the unpredictable side of nature, transitioning from calm and peaceful to angry and destructive. It's a page-turner, and you won't be able to put it down until you've reached the end. Reading this book can also help you overcome any reading slump you may be experiencing. The Cherry Tree The final book that I would like to recommend is "The Cherry Tree." It is a charming short story set in the Hills of Mussoorie, India. The tale follows a child named Rakesh, who absentmindedly tosses cherry seeds into his garden, soon forgetting about them. With the arrival of the monsoon, Rakesh notices a tiny cherry tree sapling sprouting from the ground. Excitedly, he shows the plant to his grandfather, who advises him to nurture it with care. The Cherry tree also encountered various challenges in its growth. On one occasion, it was devoured by a goat, and another time, a grass cutter woman accidentally divided it into two parts. As the tree grew taller, Rakesh observed caterpillars and other insects feasting on its leaves. However, despite these obstacles, the tree persevered, flourishing into a magnificent sight adorned with blossoms and fruits. Rakesh finds himself astonished by his own actions, unable to believe that he can reap the rewards of a tree he had planted. This book can be enjoyed while commuting or travelling. It presents a beautiful story that explores the relationship between a child and nature, showcasing how the child perceives this connection. The narrative delves into themes of survival, struggle, resilience, dedication, growth, responsibility, and pride. So, these are my favourite reads by Ruskin Bond, which I believe are excellent choices for new readers or anyone looking to embark on a reading journey but struggling to decide what to read.

Embracing the concept of simple living entails embracing a life of minimal possessions and, in turn, streamlining one's existence. While this approach holds undeniable advantages for certain individuals, it may not suit everyone. Not everyone finds solace in possessing fewer material belongings and undertaking a complete lifestyle transformation. Nevertheless, the desire to alleviate stress resonates with all. At times, we become deeply engrossed in our professional commitments, interpersonal connections, and obligations, that we start accepting stress as an intrinsic component of our daily lives. Undeniably, one can actively diminish stress and cultivate a simpler existence by implementing small yet meaningful adjustments in their daily routines. Here is a list of six effortlessly achievable suggestions for simplifying your life, enabling you to save precious time, money, and energy. While these may not be the definitive solutions, they are simple strategies that I personally embraced and believe are worth sharing with you. Start Your Morning Well: Wake Up 20 Minutes Before Your Scheduled Time Engaging in the daily grind immediately upon rising from bed is a common habit for many individuals. However, by introducing a simple alteration to your routine, you can significantly enhance your day. Consider waking up 20 minutes earlier than your scheduled time and mindfully preparing yourself for the day ahead. Refrain from using your phone or checking social media during this period. Excuse Yourself from Engaging in Unnecessary Conversations Make a conscious effort to steer clear of futile discussions such as gossip and rumors. Although it may initially appear entertaining to engage in conversations about others or discuss matters in their absence, the detrimental effects outweigh any perceived benefits. Engaging in gossip trains your mind to focus on negativity, leading to an increased tendency to perceive negativity in other aspects of your life. Excuse yourself from any conversation that stoops to the level of gossiping. Learn to Say No To Simplify Your Life While it is commendable to be generous and assist others, it is essential to avoid sacrificing your own well-being by constantly prioritizing their needs above your own. Mastering the art of saying "no" when you are genuinely disinclined to fulfill a request is crucial. Remember, you are not obligated to provide a detailed justification for declining. Embracing the power of "no" not only grants others clarity regarding your boundaries but also allows you to concentrate on what truly matters to you. Stop Buying Knick Knacks At times, it's common to have knick-knacks scattered throughout your home, becoming so familiar that they blend into the background of your daily life. However, it is advisable to refrain from purchasing such trivial objects that are destined to be overlooked for years. By eliminating these knick-knacks from your living space, you can create room for a renewed sense of freshness and vitality. Neglected and unloved items in your home can inadvertently contribute to unexplained stress for both you and those around you. Declutter Your Closet Not too long ago, my life mirrored the frustration of owning a closet overflowing with clothes but constantly feeling like I had nothing to wear. Unorganized piles of garments plagued my mornings as I struggled to find suitable outfits, resulting in consistent tardiness for work. Perhaps you can relate to this predicament as well. If so, it's time to bid farewell to those neglected garments occupying your closet space. Embrace the practice of folding and organizing your clothes meticulously, turning it into a regular habit to declutter your wardrobe. By doing so, you'll regain control over your attire selection and streamline your mornings. Replace Your Snacks with Something Healthy Surrounded by an abundance of readily available snacks, it's tempting to reach for them during your lunch or evening breaks. However, these convenient options might not be beneficial for your body. It's time to consider replacing those ready-made snacks with healthier alternatives, such as fresh fruits and homemade snacks. By making this simple switch, you can prioritize nourishing your body with wholesome choices. These steps I personally embraced have proven immensely valuable in simplifying my surroundings and transitioning towards a less stressful life. If you find yourself burdened with unexplained stress and are eager to make simple adjustments, I encourage you to give these tips a try. Remember, there's no need to tackle everything at once; take a gradual approach. Begin with a single step that feels manageable to you, and then progress to the next one.

Books have been an integral part of human civilization for centuries, serving as vessels of knowledge, entertainment, and enlightenment. They have the unique ability to transport us to different worlds, ignite our imaginations, and profoundly impact our lives. They allow us to learn from another person's experience and can shape, strengthen, or challenge our opinions and values. Sometimes, they give us a whole new perspective on a situation. I have been a book lover ever since I was a child. Finding myself lost in the world of stories was like discovering a hidden treasure. The ability of books to transport me to different worlds, ignite my imagination, and evoke a wide range of emotions has always fascinated me. As a child, I eagerly explored the pages of fairy tales, adventure stories, and fantasy novels, flipping through the chapters, eager to unravel the mysteries and embark on grand adventures alongside the characters. As I grew older, my taste in books evolved, encompassing a wide range of genres and themes. Each new book I encountered expanded my horizons, introduced me to different cultures, and challenged my perspectives. I discovered the power of literature to address complex social issues, spark important conversations, and inspire positive change in the world. Books have had a profound impact on shaping my life in numerous ways. They have helped me nurture my empathy and understanding. They have served as catalysts for personal growth and self-reflection in my life. They provide an escape from the pressures of daily life, offering a refuge for my mind and respite from stress. Books ignite my intellectual curiosity, encourage critical thinking, and broaden my understanding of the world. Books offer us a window into different cultures, experiences, and perspectives, allowing us to expand our horizons and gain a deeper understanding of the world around us. By immersing ourselves in the narratives crafted by authors, we have the opportunity to explore new ideas, question our preconceptions, and evolve as individuals. Books truly have the power to transform us and open our minds to new possibilities. The power of storytelling through books is undeniable. They shape our lives by fostering empathy, promoting personal growth, providing escapism, imparting knowledge, and inspiring transformation. As readers, we are fortunate to embark on countless literary journeys that enrich our lives, broaden our perspectives, and leave an indelible impact on our hearts and minds. So let us celebrate the profound influence of books and continue to cherish the power of storytelling in all its forms.

There was a time when everything around me began to change in a relatively short amount of time. I was losing track of what was happening and how to deal with it. I was overwhelmed with almost every aspect of my life, and I wanted to change everything at once. I yearned to live a simple and stress-free life, and I wanted to do it as soon as possible. After reading several articles on the internet, I became convinced that the only way to make my life simple and stress-free was to declutter my house, so I began the decluttering process. After spending almost a week decluttering my small apartment, I felt ready to embrace a life of simplicity and minimalism, only to realize that there was a lot more stuff to get rid of. Yes, a whole bunch of stuff would pop up each time I finished my decluttering process. The more I wanted to feel stress-free, the more burdened I felt. After so many failed attempts, I realized that living a simple life takes much more than just decluttering. I acknowledged my obsession with reaching a point where I could label myself as a minimalist and learned that such a line doesn't exist. I have realized that before decluttering the stuff around me, I need to declutter the trash that was inside me. A whole bunch of insecurities, emotions, feelings, and angst needed to be addressed. My choices were influenced by my feelings and emotions, and everything happening in my life is the collective result of the choices I have made in the past. I am solely responsible for the choices I make. I have realized that simplicity is not something that needs to be introduced into my life, but rather something that I have lost over time due to the complexities I have brought upon myself. Simplicity is not a place to arrive but rather a path to walk. It entails a daily practice of making mindful choices and embracing the beauty of small moments. Sometimes, in our haste to reach our destination, we forget to savor the joy that accompanies the journey. There is no need to feel guilty for not attaining the same level as others who have already arrived. Instead, direct your energy and focus towards the steps you need to take in order to achieve your own goals. By practicing mindfulness, finding joy in small moments, and taking small steps, you can bring about significant changes in your life. Let simplicity be your guiding light as you navigate the complexities of life and create a more meaningful existence for yourselves and those around you.

For me, simple living means living with such ease and simplicity that no aspect of your life seems complicated. It's not a set of rules to be adapted in order to change your lifestyle. Rather, it's a gradual process in which you learn to be more aware and mindful, understanding what truly matters to you and what doesn't matter at all. Simple living encompasses more than just a lifestyle; it involves being aware of your surroundings, being sensitive to your senses, and being intentional about what you expose them to. My Journey to Simple Living For me, it was a gradual understanding that developed over time. I started to analyze myself and my life, and I became overwhelmed with the complexities associated with it. I began to realize that: I was not actively taking ownership of my life, and instead, my life was being controlled by the people around me. My house was filled with a multitude of items that were a result of my impulse buying, which made me feel uncomfortable. I didn't know how to assertively say no to people. My relationships consisted more of drama, pain, and insecurities rather than love, support, and freedom. I was holding onto numerous unsaid thoughts and emotions within me, and they were consuming me. Eventually, this began to impact my health. Something didn't feel right, and I realized that I needed to change the way I was living my life. I made the decision to eliminate everything that was unnecessary, whether it was the belongings I didn't use or toxic relationships that left me feeling distraught. I knew that I wanted a life that was uncomplicated and simple, with less chaos and more joy. If you're new to this journey and feeling a bit lost or confused about where to begin, I understand that sentiment! Here's a list of three simple and fundamental tips I've put together to help you figure out how to start living a simpler life: 1. Start with Your Inner Self Decluttering is the first thing that comes to mind when we are intrigued by the idea of simple living. We feel inspired to remove a whole bunch of stuff from our kitchen, living room, or wardrobe. We feel good for a few days, but then we may start to feel lost and wonder what to do next. Simple living encompasses much more than mere decluttering and organizing. It involves making mindful choices each day based on what truly matters to us. Therefore, before making external changes, it's crucial to begin making changes from within. Begin by observing yourself. Take the time to observe everything you do throughout the day. Observe your feelings, such as how you feel when you're stuck in a traffic jam or how you feel and react when someone says something mean to you. Pay attention to the people you spend your time with and the topics of your conversations. During this observation, refrain from judging your actions or choices. Simply observe and write down everything you notice, without altering or filtering the observations. Review everything you have written and identify which actions, conversations, feelings, and friends contribute value to your life. You have the freedom to let go of actions, talks, feelings, and even friends that don't add any value and only occupy space in your life. Stay consistent in your efforts, and you will begin to experience changes within yourself. 2. Don't Rush For Decluttering Wondering how to start living a simpler life can indeed feel overwhelming. The allure of an empty room with minimal decoration may be tempting, and the immediate instinct might be to dive into decluttering your room or house right away. However, it's important to remember that it doesn't work like that—trust me on this. Simple living is not just about decluttering; it also involves recognizing the purpose and value of everything in your life. So, before you rush to throw things out of the house, take a moment to pause and consider doing the following instead. Start with a small and specific area to begin. Create a list of items you want to remove. Write down every little thing that comes to mind. Review the list and ask yourself why you initially purchased each item and why you no longer wish to keep it. Repeat this process for each item on your list. Through this exercise, you will come to understand that the goal is not simply to discard things and create empty space. Instead, you will realize that these items have fulfilled their purpose in your life, and you are now embracing a new mindset—a mindset where you no longer require them. By going through this thoughtful evaluation, you can begin your journey towards a new life with a fresh perspective, free from the unnecessary belongings that no longer serve you. 3. Remind Yourself that You Are Doing It For Yourself During the initial stages of practicing simple living, it's common to experience a sense of angst, particularly when parting with items that hold emotional significance. In such moments, it's essential to reflect on the reason why you embarked on this journey in the first place. What was the purpose behind decluttering? You are undertaking this process for your own sake—to embrace a life that is simpler, uncomplicated, and filled with joy. Therefore, it's important not to become overwhelmed or excessively fixated on the process, as doing so would mean losing sight of the very essence of simplicity. In conclusion, I want to emphasize the importance of not rushing into this process. Start slowly and take it at your own pace. Don't feel pressured to follow every tip you come across on the internet, including the ones I've shared. Feel free to customize and incorporate guidelines that you believe will work best for you. Remember, simple living is a personal journey, and it's about finding what brings you joy, ease, and fulfillment. So take it easy, be patient with yourself, and enjoy the process of discovering your own path to simplicity. Much Love ❤️