National Simplicity Day is acknowledged on the 12th of July to honor the life of poet Henry David Thoreau. He talked about condensing life to its most simple form. His famous words ‘simplify, simplify’ are more prevalent now than ever. Ever feel like you’ve already run a marathon before you’ve even got to the school gates or wake up exhausted when the early toddler morning alarm goes off? We tend to put an enormous amount of pressure on ourselves as parents. There is always an infinite amount of jobs to do which can feel utterly overwhelming. 

Surrendering to the moment is both unexceptional and radical. Simply noticing the here and now is uneventful but entirely revolutionary in a world that sanctifies achievement. 

Life has become about how much we can fit in and get done rather than enjoying the pleasure of the moment. Success is coated in busyness and sometimes this can feel so very alluring. But could we slow things down a little, take our time, and reframe what it means to make the most of our time here on Earth? 

So, what are our top tips to slow living this National Simplicity Day?

Be in nature more

Henry Thoreau believed in the power of nature. Life really is nicer outside. Have you noticed how your child can spend ages on just one thing in the garden? They can role-model and remind us of the curious moment. If you are enjoying the fruits of summer in the Northern Hemisphere, there are so many sounds, smells, and sights to appreciate on a walk, sitting in a shady patch, or enjoying a family picnic. Collecting shells on the beach, gardening, or picking blackberries with your children can feel quite simply perfect. I love living seasonally and savoring the weather changes. Even when it’s cold outside the low sun and crisp leaves beneath your feet can feel glorious. So get outside and appreciate our wonderful mother nature and all she has to offer.

Practice gratitude

Grateful living with your children can teach them to focus on the positives. You can model a gratitude strategy by saying aloud things like ‘I am so grateful for the sun today…’ or ‘I am so grateful for this delicious food…’ You could even put together a gratitude list and pop it up on the fridge or create a gratitude jar where anyone can write down something they are thankful for. Bedtime snuggles can also be a great time to chat about all the good things you experienced that day. Gratitude with Blossom is a lovely way to encourage children to feel uplifted. Kids can take a Moshi moment with Blossom to think about the simple things they might sometimes take for granted. 

Unstructured play

Observing your child in deep, unstructured play can be one of the most mindful things you can do as a parent. Mindful parenting is just being very present with your child. The benefit of watching your child play without intervening or rushing off to do a job is simplicity at its best. The benefit of this type of play for your child is a sense of freedom. Unstructured play gives children a chance to be their true selves rather than trying to get somewhere or achieve something. It fosters creativity, self-esteem, determination, discipline, coping strategies, and conflict resolution. So, to honor National Simplicity Day just watch and take in the world around you.

Learn the art of ‘no’

It’s lovely to connect with others and reach out to like-minded people for support but it’s also ok to say no to some things. Doing too much can be a distraction away from slow living. We worry about not spending enough time with our kids so saying no sometimes can be a way of just concentrating on some quality mindful time at home. Fortunately, a study found that parents are spending more time with their kids than in the past so no need to worry too much, however just be aware of keeping boundaries with those that aren’t a positive influence.

Meditate 

Well, this is what we are here for. Moshi is for the whole family. Mindful meditations are a wonderful way to connect to the here and now. Bedtime is a lovely way for kids (and their parents) to unwind and drift off into a restful place. Have you tried Flash & Wanda’s Perfect Storm: a beautiful tale of Moshling clouds dancing together through moonlit skies or Stanley & Ophelia set beside a sleepy Moshi coral reef? Our app is full of mesmerizing stories, sounds, and sleep meditations.

Strip back

Having a good clear-out can feel so therapeutic. It’s a great way of getting rid of the mental and material clutter. You could donate the unwanted items to your local charity shop as a way of giving back to the world. Also, have a look at what you are spending your money on. Is there a way to cut back on material possessions? For lots of people this won’t be the case but just being aware of where we put our time, energy, and money can be an enlightening experience. 

However you decide to live slowly and simply, I wish you many mindful and joyous moments with your family. Happy National Simplicity Day!

Samantha Redgrave-Hogg