The Plunge: Minimalism
Welcome to The Plunge, your daily dive into Christian Wellness!
Today, we’re focusing on Minimalism and how simplifying our surroundings can bring peace, clarity, and a deeper connection to what truly matters. Minimalism is not just about reducing clutter—it's about creating space for intentional living, aligning our environment with our values, and fostering well-being.
Minimalism is focusing on what is essential and letting go of excess. It invites us to remove physical and mental distractions and make room for what is most important. By simplifying our surroundings, we also simplify our lives, allowing more space for spiritual growth, meaningful connections, and a deeper sense of purpose.
The Bible encourages us to embrace simplicity in our lives. In Luke 12:15, Jesus warns, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” This verse reminds us that true life and fulfillment do not come from material wealth or accumulating more but from a deeper connection to God and the things that truly matter.
Research supports that simplifying our surroundings can positively impact our mental health and well-being. A study published in Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin found that physical clutter in the home environment was associated with increased stress and higher levels of cortisol, a hormone related to stress1. The study concluded that creating a clutter-free, minimalist space can help reduce stress, improve mood, and foster a sense of calm and control.
Minimalism goes beyond decluttering physical spaces. It’s about removing the unnecessary distractions that keep us from living fully in the present moment. By simplifying our surroundings, we create a peaceful environment supporting mental clarity and emotional well-being.
Practical Steps to Embrace Minimalism
Start Small:
Begin by decluttering one area of your home—a drawer, a closet, or a desk. Let go of items you no longer use, need, or that do not bring joy. Create space for what truly matters.
Be Intentional with New Purchases:
Before buying something new, ask yourself if it aligns with your values and needs. Will it add value to your life, or is it just another distraction? Focus on quality over quantity.
Simplify Your Digital Space:
Minimalism also applies to our digital environments. Declutter your inbox, organize your files, and reduce your screen time. This will create mental space and reduce information overload.
Embrace Quality Time:
Use the space you’ve created in your surroundings to focus on meaningful activities—spending time with loved ones, deepening your relationship with God, or engaging in hobbies that enrich your soul.
Reflection Questions:
How have your surroundings affected your stress levels and mental clarity recently?
Are there areas in your life where you can embrace minimalism to create more space for what truly matters?
How can simplifying your physical environment positively impact your emotional and spiritual well-being?
Practical Application:
This week, choose one area of your life to simplify. Whether decluttering a room, reducing distractions in your schedule, or limiting your digital intake, notice how this shift impacts your sense of peace and well-being.
Remember, life does not consist of an abundance of possessions. By embracing minimalism and aligning our surroundings with our values, we create space for what truly matters—our faith, relationships, and purpose.
As always, in Christ, engage, adapt, and overcome.
Remy Sharpe
Saxbe, D. E., & Repetti, R. L. (2010). No place like home: Home tours correlate with daily patterns of mood and cortisol. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 36(1), 71-81.