Improve Your Health with Minimalism (Challenges Part 8)

Earlier this year I was the victim of identity theft, and it was a sickening experience.  I felt so angry and so vulnerable.  But I'm also thankful for the kindness and competence of the people who helped me sort things out and begin to recover.

Chronic stress can kill you.

Identity theft is only one possible source of stress in our world today.  Work, relationships, parenting, and general over-busyness can also be part of the mix.  But many studies, including the American Psychological Association's 2022 Stress in America survey, indicate that a large majority of Americans feel stressed about finances.

Chronic stress is really bad for our health.  It lowers our immune response and can leave us vulnerable to digestive problems, headaches, high blood pressure, heart disease, and more.

A minimalist mindset can reduce stress by helping us remove the things that bog us down and steal our money, time, and attention.  We may own and do less, but we gain the space and energy to focus on what we truly care about.  Minimalism is all about a quality life.

However, it's possible to create the perfect uncluttered home and schedule yet ignore the foundation we need for a good life – good health.  Without it, everything else could be compromised.

The next three challenges focus on your good health.

Thirty-minute Minimalist Challenges #22-24

22.  Be a good patient.

Life is far simpler when you're healthy, but you definitely need to take action to stay well.  Schedule your preventative medical appointments and screenings.  Take prescribed medications as directed.  Get your COVID booster and flu shot.  Make an appointment with the dentist.  If you're over 50, schedule an eye exam, even if you don't notice any problems with your vision.

23.  Create a soothing bedtime ritual.

Millions of people fail to get the recommended seven to eight hours sleep each night, even though many studies reveal that adequate sleep is a primary determiner of our moods.  Sleep deprivation impairs memory, weakens the immune system, and slows metabolism.  How can we have a happier, simpler life with all of that going on?

Choose an earlier bedtime and turn off screens an hour before.  Make a list of your top two or three priorities for the next day so you can stop worrying about them.  Then take time to moisturize your face/hands/feet, do some stretching, listen to serene music, meditate, read a spiritual text, or something else that will prepare you for a restful night.

24.  Evaluate your purchases.

Almost nothing complicates life so much as messy finances.  Look at your last ten receipts and think about your shopping triggers.  What do you notice about your spending habits?  How much do they contribute to your clutter problems?  Are you happy with the way you're using your money?