The importance of space in cultivating a simple lifestyle is related to the fundamental nature of the universe and also to the challenges of modern society. By realising the role of space, its importance in achieving simplicity and balance becomes clear.
The basic nature of the universe is characterised by the predominance of space. The cosmos is basically made up of vast expanses of space, with matter occupying only a small part of its volume. This fundamental characteristic of the universe should inspire our attitude to existence. Just as the universe thrives on the balance between matter and emptiness, our lives can benefit from a similar balance. Space on the sidereal scale allows for harmonic movement, interaction and the constant flow of energy. Even on the infinitesimally small scale of the particles that make up matter, science fundamentally identifies space and movement. Because of this, it's natural that by leaving spaces in our lives, we stimulate creativity, personal growth and a sense of greater freedom.
In contrast to the spaciousness of natural proportions, modern society is increasingly characterised by excess and overload. In material possessions, we see the accumulation of consumer goods, usually far more than we need or can use effectively. In the area of information, the digital age brings an endless stream of stimuli, most of them of questionable value, which makes it very difficult to process meaningful and applicable data. In the management of our time, we see over-scheduled existences, with many people having no access to spontaneity or relaxation. It's as if it were a problem to have free time, which is essential for nurturing the subtler aspects of our human nature. In the use of physical spaces, coexistence has become disorganised and anxious, with our homes and workplaces often filled beyond what is necessary, limiting movement and the possibility of a functional and healthy environment.
The effects are easily verifiable: a sense of anxiety, overload, stress linked to a sense of endless improvisation.
Cultivating a more lucid attitude requires questioning these habits. Simplifying our daily lives requires some simple actions, although they are challenging because they require gradual and continuous changes.
In the physical space, the (re)organisation of our personal and professional environments begins by questioning the real need for each element that makes up the place where we exist. The process itself provides mental clarity and stress reduction. By letting go of unnecessary possessions, we prioritise what really matters and make our spaces more functional and peaceful.
On the mental side, adopting regular mindfulness and meditation practices helps decisively in overcoming unnecessary thoughts, beliefs and pre-occupations. Mental space optimises our capacity for focus, creativity and the ability to manage challenges.
In the dimension of time, leaving unscheduled periods in our day opens up the possibility of resting, cultivating spontaneity, leisure and relaxed observation of reality. In this way, we can be more present in each moment and realise our true needs, overcoming motivation based on desires. In this respect, it is very important to moderate our consumption of digital content and even implement "digital detox" periods, in order to manage our attention more freely by reducing information overload. A simple measure here is to avoid accessing digital information media in the early hours of the day; it is advisable to start with a period of silence, moderate and conscious physical exercise, breakfast, a break and only then access information networks, to the extent that your roles require.
In a reality in which the dominant stimuli condition us to always "more" - more possessions, more information, more commitments, more importance - the conscious attitude of cultivating spaces becomes an act of freedom, power and self-care. By harmonising our choices with the principles of the spacious nature of the universe, we nurture a simpler and healthier lifestyle. This allows us to focus on what is meaningful, reducing anxiety and unnecessary stress factors, and the natural effect will be to feel more peace and fulfilment in our daily lives. Welcoming space is different from emptying our lives, but rather means developing a balance that will allow our authentic development, more freedom of movement and the emergence of new and inspiring possibilities. In this way, we progress towards living more simply, healthily and being able to choose consciously. Allow yourself.

One more time
From 17 to 23 November 2024, I took part in the Zen Peacemakers' Retreat in the Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camps in Poland. But why take part once again?