In this series I explain terms used in the low impact movement, lifestyle terms, and other verbiage that I use on my blog and in my daily life, simply, in case they are new to readers. In some cases, I have done some research on them, but these definitions are mostly what I understand them to be and how I use them.
These terms are often used in conjunction with the low impact and zero waste movements. Have you heard them before?
Minimalism
Technically minimalism refers to movements in art, music, and literiture but here we use it to refer to a lifestyle that involves minimizing ones possessions, things, thoughts and activities that take up ones time to lead an easier, more simplified life. Minimalists often give up many material goods, have pared down wardrobes (some even adopt uniforms), declutter technology, thoughts and actions among other aspects of their lives. .The extent to which each individual minimalizes their life and surrounding is up to them. Some argue to be a true minimalist you have to have less than a certain number of things to qualify, but this theory is largly disputed. Ultimately, Minimalists are people who minimalize their lives as much as possible and to their own satisfaction.
Simple Living
”Simple living encompasses a number of different voluntary practices to simplify one's lifestyle. These may include, for example, reducing one's possessions, generally referred to as minimalism, or increasing self-sufficiency. Simple living may be characterized by individuals being satisfied with what they have rather than want.”
Simple living can be any number of ways to simplify ones life. Many people who fit into this category are minimalists, but many are not. Homesteaders also often fall into this category. But this is a much broader term to encompasses all who want to pare down their living to be more simple and less complicated. By leading a less complicated life, one strives to improve health and metal well being, as well as the health of the planet. Ultimately, someone who strives for Simple Living, strives for a sustainable, self sufficient, simplified life with mainly the essentials to their own satisfaction.
Curated Living
This term can fall between the previous two or be something totally other. Curated living to me is just making sure that you are examining everything in your life, being mindful of what you keep in your life and take pleasure with all that you have. You might be a minimalist, or a homesteader, or you might have tons of items but each are picked with care and passion.
Are these terms familiar to you? Do they fit with what you think of these terms?
What are some other words and phases that you associate with the low impact movement?