How much is too much?

Open your closet and imagine a conversation between the humble cotton sari
and the noble kanjivaram.

Step into the kitchen and visualise the modest dal- chawal’s tête-à-tête
with the boastful charcuterie platter.

Envision the art and architecture of the Baroque and Rococo period
with the minimalist style.

Who is to decide how much is too much? The world today, every year celebrates simplicity day. We are continuously competing in the rat race in our busy lives. We lack the time to halt and appreciate life as it plays out in front of us. Checking our phones and returning to the drill are the first things we do in the morning after waking up. We forget to cherish our loved ones, nature, and the things that truly matter when we are constantly chasing money, fame, success, and recognition. Living simply and embracing a simple existence can help you slow down and avoid joining the rat race.

Going back in time

National Simplicity Day honours a meaningful, uncomplicated lifestyle free from materialistic longing. This day is dedicated to the writings, philosophy and birth of American author and philosopher Henry David Thoreau, who promoted a happy, simple existence.

“Simplicity, simplicity, simplicity! I say, let your affairs be as two or three, and not a hundred or a thousand; instead of a million count half a dozen, and keep your accounts on your thumb nail,” says Thoreau. Now that we are already spoilt for choices, won’t it be a wise decision to opt for the minimalist?

Unchasing materialism

We have hoarded so much that it has become impossible to not ‘consume’. So, even with loads of things that we have accumulated, living in the bare minimum is the only way out.

Clothes and accessories

With the majority of our country experiencing tropical climate, it is best to do away with polyester and synthetic fabric. Sticking to the cotton fabric is best suited for this environment and an Indian way of promoting the local. Somebody had pointed out during the Mughal era that Indian women wear a loin cloth and they are poor, but that is untrue. They were talking about the sari which Indian women used to wear in the terrible heat while they were decked up in the velvet attire with heavy zardoji work on it which was unsuitable for the weather.

Art and Architecture

Go back to the period of Baroque and Rococo, the essence of that period was to bring more power, drama and decorations, imagine how much time would have gone behind making and maintaining it! It might be the most visually appealing time in the history of art, but understanding its complexities just imagine the number of days, time and people invested on one piece of art. This is something which minimalism wouldn’t preach and it would gift you a clean and austere piece of art which can be easily maintained.

Gadgets

We are almost on the verge of technology taking place of humans. Do we really want that? Simpler life must include only basic gadgets for the day to day use. The manual work which previously was done by a human used to keep him mentally, emotionally and physically stronger. Now they are the ones who remain in the automated distracted zone. Hence, using less and simpler gadgets would make your life even simpler.

Food

A bowl full of dal- chawal would definitely satiate your hunger, but not the junk cravings. While the world is a global village, one may find the bits and parts of every cuisine in the hotels and restaurants. But, is it good to have it all even in the environmental conditions that we are living in? Few of the dishes made in extreme cold condition might upset your stomach and lead to diseases if you are having it often. Simpler food will help you maintain your health.

Chasing idealism?

Having spoken enough about the materialistic aspects, there are numerous idealistic aspects which needs to be broken down from being multifaceted.

Thoughts and Language

Is it better to reach more number of people through a simple thought and language or is it paramount to create a complex narrative which fails to reach more number of people? Simpler ideas is a sign of clarity of thought which would be understood by many. Difficult language and thought would result into giving a series of explanations and justifications which would increase your anxiety as well.

Here are a few suggestions from Henry David Thoreau’s book Walden for embracing simplicity as we are observing this day:

• No complications: We should choose happiness and simplicity above complexity in life. It’s important to keep in mind that every problem has a solution.
• Important facts: Every person is here for a reason, so we should look for those reasons and discover the things that are truly important to live for.
• Achievements: Every accomplishment, no matter how big or small, is unique. Our aims, values, and ethics should guide us how we celebrate both modest and significant accomplishments.