National Simplicity Day: Let's Keep It Simple for a Better Life
National Simplicity Day is on July 12th, Henry David Thoreau's birthday. It honors the American essayist who advocated for mindfulness and simple living. The day inspires people to embrace simplicity, be aware of the environment, and reduce consumption and waste. Whether you want to increase productivity or slow down, this celebration is for you.
Featured in: July - Awareness Months, Days & Observances.
Why National Simplicity Day Matters
Thoreau believed in the value of leading a simple life, hence why National Simplicity Day is named in his honor. His two-year stay at Walden Pond, reflected in his 1854 work Walden, is the main inspiration for this event's message of self-reliance and simple living.
This occasion is also an opportunity for everyone to evaluate their environmental footprint. Working towards sustainability is essential for societal progress, highlighting that minimal consumption helps preserve our natural resources.
Living simply provides numerous benefits. It reduces environmental damage, stress, and money problems while increasing productivity, promoting community building, and favoring a sustainable lifestyle. Slow down and cherish every moment as you celebrate National Simplicity Day.
If you want to find joy with simple bare necessities, check out our article on minimalism, which also follows the idea of less is more.
Data and Statistics
According to a Center for the New American Dream survey, 88% of Americans consider their society excessively materialistic.
Another 2019 study by The Harris Poll reveals that 64% of Americans actively seek a less stressful and simpler life.
Moreover, the Environmental Protection Agency reports that the average American generates 4.9 pounds of waste daily. Much of this waste results from unnecessary purchases influenced by our consumer society.
How to Keep It Simple
Start with decluttering your physical space.
- Get rid of old magazines and unused items.
- Donate clothes you haven't worn in a year.
- Unsubscribe from unwanted emails and delete unused apps.
Practice mindful consumption.
- Choose local and organic food.
- Choose zero-waste products with minimal packaging or packaging made from recycled materials.
Embrace slow living and do fewer things.
- Relish the simple pleasures like having a warm cup of coffee or spending time in the park.
- Create tech-free zones at home and schedule specific "tech times."
- Schedule quality time with loved ones and engage in outdoor activities.
Brief Timeline of National Simplicity Day
The first National Simplicity Day is celebrated, inspired by the philosophy and life of Henry David Thoreau, who advocated for living a simple life.
The observance gains momentum, with more individuals and organizations recognizing and promoting the event.
Several online platforms promote National Simplicity Day, significantly increasing awareness and participation.
The event started gaining international recognition, as many people around the world joined the observance.
Numerous environmental and lifestyle blogs begin promoting National Simplicity Day.
The observance sees a surge in participation from schools and educational institutions.
Various companies and businesses start observing National Simplicity Day.
The COVID-19 pandemic, due to lockdowns and restrictions, renews the focus on simplicity and makes National Simplicity Day more relevant than ever.
The observance continues to grow as more people recognize the importance of simplicity in their daily lives.
Conclusion
National Simplicity Day encourages sustainable habits and waste reduction. Making choices such as reducing carbon emissions significantly contributes to a healthier planet. This day reminds us to adopt daily eco-friendly actions, like using public transport, choosing local produce, and avoiding plastic bags. It's our shared responsibility to maintain Earth's balance.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Happy National Simplicity Day! This national day, which is on July 12th, honors the birthday of Henry David Thoreau and promotes living a simpler, more mindful life.
It helps reduce stress, increase focus, and create meaningful connections with others and the environment.
You can declutter your space, spend time in nature, practice mindfulness, and reflect on what truly matters to you.
It can lead to improved mental health, increased productivity, reduced environmental impact, and greater well-being.
Prioritize your tasks, set boundaries with technology, practice gratitude, and be more mindful of your consumption habits.
Mike is a degree-qualified researcher and writer passionate about increasing global awareness about climate change and encouraging people to act collectively in resolving these issues.
Fact Checked By:
Isabela Sedano, BEng.
