It may surprise you to know that today is National Simplicity Day. And it's really struck me this year having navigated through a long period where everything changed overnight, just like you. And if you're like me, you will always try to see the positives in any situation. Like embracing and living the simple life. We've become very good it.

But I can also see this gorgeous simplicity easily slipping away as we head closer to 'how things used to be.' And it got me thinking... wouldn't it be a shame if we all lost sight of some of the simple living that was thrust upon us all? Because living a more streamlined life is proven to be better for you mental and physical wellbeing, helping you to be your best from the inside out.

So for National Simplicity Day, I wanted to take this opportunity to give a shout out for living a simple life. From a practical, realistic, modern day perspective. Because we live in an age where we constantly use our phones, TVs and other electronic equipment that we rarely have time to just sit and reflect and gather our thoughts.

For me, simple living is about finding the beauty in less and putting quality over quantity. It’s about valuing things that make you happy and giving time to what’s most important to you. So here are my five tips for embracing a simpler life...

Time out from devices

Now this will be tough, but trust me it's so liberating! It's probably unrealistic and a bit impractical to say you should put your smartphone, tablet and laptop away for the whole day. We always need to keep a certain sound perspective. BUT, find a time, ideally at least a couple of hours if not a half day, where you can pop your smartphone into aeroplane mode, "do not disturb mode'.

The thought panics you? It will take some getting used to but I can tell you now this conscious act will then drive longer term unconscious distance from your digital pull. Because let's face it, we've all been relying on these clever digi devices a whole lot more over the past year.

But does it feel good to be constantly checking, answering every message and call as they come in. Where's the barrier? The only way to get things back on your terms and free up your time and mind is to literally switch off, for a bit if nothing else.

Say goodbye to "shoulds"

Take a moment to think about how many times have you've found yourself saying "I should...", when really it's the last thing you want to do. If it's not going to make you happy, or it's not going to be good for you, then perhaps you "shouldn't". And don't for one second think that this is selfish.

It's self-care. It's necessary for you and you should not feel guilty. I believe it's so important for maintaining a healthy, simpler lifestyle because self-care is proven to reduces stress, increase your confidence and boosts your overall positivity!

Keep the calendar clearer

A simplified calendar will do you the world of good. While lockdown has been the toughest time for all of us, almost all of the 2020 calendar went out the window. But by golly if you were rushing here there and everywhere before, can you honestly say you miss it? All of it?

Sure, you'll be yearning for some diary dates to return: special family get togethers, a catch up with friends, a coffee with Mum...to mention a few. But before you sign up every space in your calendar, take a moment to consider if it's something you want to do or need to do. Should do? Nope.

Try keeping at least a couple of weekends a month totally free! For your space to be spontaneous and go wherever the day takes you. No rushing. No prepping. Simply the freedom to do what you love and enjoy.

Declutter, declutter, declutter

You can never do enough decluttering! If you really have tackled every drawer, cupboard, nook and cranny then here's a huge pat on the back. But the likelihood is that there are still things you're yet to touch. And a big part of simplifying your life is to move things on that no longer give you pleasure or that you no longer really need.

There will be someone else out there waiting for something you're ready to move on; and be sure to recycle wherever you can of course. 

Stay in touch with nature

I truly believe there is nothing more beautiful in life than what occurs naturally. And there so much natural beauty waiting to be enjoyed every day. The more you get out and explore the more you'll notice and enjoy. From the shift in spring flowers to the summer blooms and the autumnal crunch. Taking the same walk regularly will fill you with surprises.

And it's oh so simple of course! The simple act of getting outside to breathe in the fresh air every day will fill you with goodness, destress you and reset you to take on what's next.

So quite simply make time and space for the things that really matter to you; family, friends and things that make you smile [or need]. Not just for National Simplicity Day but for everyday.

Love Tracey xxxx