What we’re reading: Simple Abundance

-By Lisa

I don't think having a box of tampons on my bedside table would scream "girl" more than Simple Abundance.

It's a very girly book.

I am not a very girly person.

But this book overcomes the shocking pink hue and the delicate, shiny ribbon bookmark. It overcomes those things for one simple reason; the words in this book are wonderful. Really wonderful.

It's somewhat outdated; it was originally published in 1995. At one point she talks about writing away for catalogues - which made me giggle. But the concepts are eternally relevant and this bedside companion brings my evenings to a peaceful and inspiring close.

Sara Ban Breathnach deals with all the things we love around here; how to get the most out of every day, how to practice gratitude and how to recognize beauty in daily life. These themes are not groundbreaking, yet I can never get enough reminders to take a breath and demonstrate gratitude for the everyday things around me. I love having a daily reminder of the miracle of life; the beauty in simplicity and the constant joy that is available if I just remember to tap in. 

The daily doses are short enough that I can read them even on those evenings when I am ready to fall asleep with a toothbrush in my mouth; the longest is one page. It's a lovely to have her words be the last thing in my brain before slipping into the subconscious. I also adore a great quote, and she offers up some perfect little nuggets about womanhood, simplicity and happiness.

Her list at the end of each month offers some ways to put these ideas into practice. Taking time out to care for yourself is a top priority. She recommends meditation and keeping a Gratitude Journal (which I now do - more on that to come) and an Inspiration Journal.

Some days I am dying to read ahead, but I try to practice patience because I love the fact that the readings are seasonal. Just as I was thinking about getting vegetable seeds, there was Sara, talking about gardening's effect on the soul.

Because this book is older and was very popular, so you can surely pick it up at a library book-sale or used bookshop for next to nothing. There are also companions to this book - a workbook, The Simple Abundance Companion and a Journal of Gratitude which are fantastic for making some of the concepts more tangible. 

So, every night, I tuck into bed with Simple Abundance for uplifting reminders of how to best live this amazing life I've been given. Not bad for a bright pink book.

For more from Lisa, check out www.justherejustnow.com 

 

Comments

[Tracy]

I've had this book sitting on my bookshelf since...well, probably since 1995 when it was released and it was all the rage. Maybe it's time to pull it off the shelf and actually start reading it.

[Simplifying the Simple Life]

Time to crack that spine, girl!!!
: )