How Minimalism Healed Me

Minimalism, Marie Kondo's idea of spark joy and the Danish quality of hygge (pronounced hoo-gah) sums up my lifestyle for reduced clutter, mindful consumption and maximizing well-being & enjoyment in life. Enjoy!
BOOKS MENTIONED
» Spark Joy by Marie Kondo: amzn.to/3mdLeVw
» The Little Book of Hygge by William Morrow: amzn.to/35qh0sL
MUSIC CREDITS
» Cinematic Dramatic Trailer by RomanSenykMusic
» Lo-fi Type Beat - "Lovely" by Eric Godlow
» Summit by Jonny Easton
STAY CONNECTED
» IG: / deannavy_
Thanks for watching!

[@BusinessTipsWithYulianna]

I am not a hoarder. I have a “normal” amount of stuff. But sometimes I feel so overwhelmed by all the things in my house. I started declutering during the lockdown. I am still on it. And I feel sooooo free already....

[@robinlillian9471]

Having an empty home doesn't make you free. Focusing on your stuff is just a distraction from dealing with REAL problems.

[@judylloyd7901]

@@robinlillian9471 Gotta start somewhere, though, eh? Good on Yulianna for making a start!👍😊😊👍

[@Sheryl777]

@@judylloyd7901 Agree! And getting rid of your stuff that you don't really have a need for makes it to where you don't have to focus on it.

[@pinkmagicali]

I’m trying to work on this. I don’t want to get rid of everything, I just don’t want to feel burdened by stuff. I don’t want to keep things I won’t use. I tend to jump around hobbies and don’t want that to become a weight.

[@Sheryl777]

@@pinkmagicali 👍😊

[@suinjapan]

Honestly, minimalism changed my life completely. I feel less depressed and my creativity became more! Before, I was always tired and unproductive and now I can finally make plans again!

[@rocky821]

read autobiography of yogi by paramahansa yogananda published by self-realization fellowship 💜 you need it 🌌

[@funnymemos3056]

Before I retired I sold my home and got rid of pretty much everything. It has been eight years now and I love it. No regrets at all. I live in a small 1 bedroom apartment and my life is so much easier!

[@asanta2023]

Do you miss your home? Are you afraid your rent will increase? Thank you

[@suinjapan]

@@asanta2023 I don’t think so since she said that her life is easier by now and that she has no regrets. (: But I mean owning a house is expensive, too. Even if you’re the owner, you have to pay for repair costs, cleaning supplies, etc etc

[@Deb.-.]

Sounds wonderful.

[@funnymemos3056]

No after a few months I got used to renting. There are some benefits to renting that make life much easier. I am so lucky because I rent an in-law apartment in a private home. I have a yard to plant and a large patio. I told the owner that I live on a fixed income and he said he won’t ever increase my rent. This works to both of our advantage. He has a good renter and I have a beautiful place to live.

[@jonredd650]

Just purchased my new house after a 20 year marriage. I told my wife I don't want anything other than a couple of things. I'm only buying what I truly need. It is great

[@jacqslabz]

There are definitely some people I've seen online that call themselves minimalist, but then do nothing but obsess over their stuff. The point of minimalism isn't stuff or worrying about stuff, the point is to be intentional and focus on what matters, not rather it's more minimalist to have 1 pair of socks that you wash all the time vs enough pairs to only wash once a week (I'd say neither because it's more minimalist to not worry about such a small thing).

[@SrSrk98]

wow, well said!

[@Hamyhamster24]

All the minimalist on KZbin isn’t exactly minimalist 🤣

[@user-tp5jf4mp6y]

@@Hamyhamster24 exactly. You said the truth👍.

[@timbersync]

Nope. minimalism is about only buy the things you need. people need pairs of socks to make their life easier for not washing everyday.

[@sudhirchandra9790]

Brilliantly said , it's mind that should be minimalist

[@Lizzybethhann]

Thank you for being the first minimalist KZbinr to dispel the idea that minimalism is ONLY about “quality over quantity”. I fell into that trap and found myself getting rid of perfectly goods items so I could buy quality items that fit the minimalist aesthetic. And I did it both with my home and wardrobe. It was quite expensive and totally defeated the purpose I was trying to achieve. I am learning that it’s about being more intentional with the things I’m spending my money on and what I’m allowing to come into my home.

[@Stevie6636]

I have been working on owning less for 4years now. Ever since losing my beloved Rottweiler of 11yrs. ( My best friend) last year. I found myself not caring about anything or anyone and nothing was sparking any joy in my life. I was lost, depressed and getting angry with myself. I allowed myself to consume so much stuff that I didn’t want or need. My space and my head just became one big storm cloud and I knew it wasn’t going to be long before something gave way. So while searching on KZbin for that thing that makes us sit-up and take notice. I came across minimalism and living a more sustainable and intentional life. I realised at that point that I too had fallen into the consumer trap. While I’m still decluttering after all this time. My next step is to convert a bus into my forever home. Lastly. I just want to say a big thanks to all who have shared their own struggles and their final accomplishment. Including you…

[@mikahist4155]

Hey there, losing my rottweiler was on of the worst- if not the worst pain in my life- they are so sweet yet people fear them: it will get better in year three.. 💛 head up.

[@wadecodez]

Many people only think about minimalism for tangible items, but like you said it also applies to the digital world. Tech makes it much easier to stash away junk and never think about it again. The most clutter feels like it is coming from subscription services, excess apps, and social media feeds. Once I started cutting back in those areas, I felt much happier.

[@user-hq9ul9bk8b]

Minimalism means keeping things you actually enjoy / love and use regularly. Then there are things like a snow shovel if one lives in a snowy country. This is essential and useful, but would not say it brings one joy. Nor does it mean buying expensive things. But it is logical to buy things that last. Enjoyed this video. Have subscribed. Love from Switzerland.

[@grogers511]

To need a shovel - and not have one = no joy. 😬

[@user-hq9ul9bk8b]

@@grogers511 Sure - but you can buy, hire or borrow one. Or save up to buy a shovel. Besides they are not so costly. Even in Switzerland, which is a very expensive country, one can buy a good lasting shovel for a reasonable price. Besides shovelling snow is exercise.

[@grogers511]

@@user-hq9ul9bk8b True! Interesting thought. There are things that can be borrowed when needed. I suppose those could be identified based on how often you need them. 🔲 I was thinking about this idea in terms of a can opener. A can opener that doesn’t work smoothly vs one that does. I would prefer just a simple one that can be stored in a drawer. Less space. My spouse likes the electric one that cuts the can top off smoothly. I’d rather use less canned goods. He likes having canned goods. I’d like to put things away in cupboards. He would forget to use them if they’re not displayed. We negotiate some things.

[@user-hq9ul9bk8b]

@@grogers511 Canned goods to me are horror. I only buy fresh buo unpackaged or boxed food. Prefer shopping at open air food markets or smaller family owned shops. Living in Zurich there is no shortage of fresh loose food and fruit that is unpackaged. But if one lives far from shops I understand buying in cans or whatever. Kind greetings.

[@grogers511]

@@user-hq9ul9bk8b I agree with you. I eat fresh or frozen.

[@EarthyReenz]

This is such a good video that actually touches on what minimalism is supposed to be. I also fell in to the trap of quality over quantity and ended up overspending ironically. I think a lot of minimalist videos also focus so much on the idea of being productive but minimalism is about simplifying your life so that you can also do and worry about less!

[@natsumiyumiko9644]

You seem like such a nice person, definitely happy that youtube recommended me your channel

[@DeannaVy]

Thank you Natsumi :)

[@CasuallyMatthew]

Minimalism + Hygge are the perfect combination of lifestyle philosophies. I love both so much and have implemented the two into my space living. Coziness and minimalism are just such simple yet joyful ways to live!!! love love it.

[@Iquey]

YAS! marie kondo + the hygge book is a good pairing. Minimalism but still cozy, without the sterility.

[@jessicabanaszak573]

Thanks for sharing, I find so much of the content/philosophy on minimalism is focused on the aesthetic, or just weirdly way too expensive a lifestyle for your average person to pursue. This was a refreshing change.

[@solarcowgirl]

This is so true! I feel like having a bunch of old reused, thrifted, vintage and recycled things and clothes is way better than buying 5000 dollars worth of white furniture.

[@jessicabanaszak573]

@@solarcowgirl Yessssss. I think hand-me-downs, sidewalk freebies, and thrift stores finds have better stories as well! I'm even fond of the furniture I have that is horrifyingly tacky, because I was able to find a use for it and give it some more life.

[@solarcowgirl]

@@jessicabanaszak573 doesn’t disgusting clothing and furniture just have more character? Like yes it’s the color of cat vomit, but it’s MY cat vomit.

[@jcmc8220]

@@solarcowgirl agree

[@veiledturk]

Minimalism is the best thing thats happened to my life.

[@sippinontea5934]

Did you give it away or sell it?

[@user-dq2ym1nn9k]

Me too.

[@vanessatiyera]

same

[@danny610]

How so??

[@nancymercado278]

me to I often buy clothes, shoes and a lot of stuff until 2 rooms in our house is full of my stuff. what a waste of money.

[@dabdelaziz777]

I have a 10 feet by 16 feet space and a small bathroom. This is enough for me. I am working to reduce further what is in this space. I am with you: eating the best food and having a few good things that bring me joy is my way .

[@JojoCrazyCat]

I didn't minimalize much. I organized. But i did get ride of all the things i didn't use. I had cloths from my childhood i didn't wear anymore. I ended up getting rid of 13 bags of old cloths. Then i made clothing shelves out of crates i got at the hardware store. I used zip ties to attach them all together. Then i bought some stackable plastic shelves to put all my smaller stuff in. Then i turned my spare room into a storage room. I didn't use it for guests. So i thought, why not make it a pantry and storage area. I keep my food and extra stuff in that room. It saved much room in the kitchen. All my can foods on shelves i build along the walls, and the box foods in plastic containers to keep any mice out of it, if they get in my house. For many years my stuff just set in piles all over the house. Then i started watching videos of small houses, with space organized. Is so much wasted space in a house i didn't notice. Its all about fitting stuff in open spaces in the house. Like the end of my bed. Was nothing at the end of my bed. So i built those plastic crate shelves at the end of my bed. Now my cloths are off the floor and organized.

[@amyclay8961]

I'm finding my mental health has improved so much with a simplified living space. It's definitely a work in progress still but one I'm thoroughly enjoying.

[@1019jen]

Yes! Love this. Im in the beginning of my journey of realizing I used things and shopping to fill a void. It never got filled. I realize living more simply is good for my mental health. Namaste

[@DeannaVy]

It's okay, wherever you are in your journey, I feel like it's a life long challenge since we live in a society that bombards us with ads constantly telling us we need X and Y to be happy. I feel like I'm back at square one sometimes!

[@IlEstToutSeul]

Good vid. I also saw minimalism as a destination rather than a journey. Took me a while to shift the mindset. Slowly working on my digital space, then the final (and toughest) hurdle will be the mental one ;)

[@AnetaBir]

same here

[@chukc2012]

I'm learning that it is a big difference between minimalism and extreme minimalism. Something u have to figure out on ur own.

[@ShadowRaven66669]

This is why I aim to live "simply" rather than calling it Minimalism. Minimalism is becoming a cult.

[@judylloyd7901]

@@ShadowRaven66669 To live simply is now called "Essentialism." Lol 😊👍

[@ShadowRaven66669]

@@judylloyd7901 I don't join cults. 🤣

[@everettedl]

Loved this video. Being content with and finding joy less is huge. Watching you enjoy donuts with your friend stood out so much to me because you both were sharing that happy moment together. That's priceless.

[@DeannaVy]

I appreciate you guys so much for watching. I've made some other minimalism-related videos recently if you want to check it out: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iWmogmxvZcmjn9k Glad minimalism is working out for a lot of you and thank you for sharing your experiences with us all. Here's to a more decluttered 2021. Much love and stay safe, Deanna

[@sharonsvendsen6959]

Yes! "Find what works for you". I have been on this journey for a while and this is so true. Find your balance and what makes you happy has been my mantra for a while now. I take the best of what I hear and apply it to my own life.

[@sararose9664]

Love this video. I’ve de cluttered so much in our household. We’re a family of 5 and I feel so much less stress. It’s truly amazing. The best part is how much I’ve simplified my kitchen and gadgets. Cooking is more enjoyable now!

[@kaze.ni_naru]

I agree with your points. obsessing over how few things you have is just as bad as obsessing over how much you have. I’ve had a similar experience with minimalism in that I’m choosing to consume with intention and only keeping and buying the things that make me feel good about myself as a person. Those small moments of self contentment are what’s most important!

[@PilotPerkins]

Minimalism for me is partly the pursuit to avoid unnecessary monetary distractions. Love the video.

[@jamescrutchfield2720]

"Intentional Consumption". Love that phrase. Across every physical, digital (and mental) aspect. We are led astray by reactive consumption of stuff that is thrust upon us.

[@joannajohnson696]

Finally a video that addresses the "real things in life!" I enjoyed this immensely!

[@brigitte5704]

This is my favorite minimalism video I've seen. I like your take on it.

[@drivers99]

I love that you worked in that temperature drop from 100 to 28 degrees F at the beginning of September in Denver. Now we’re getting our second snow of the year at the end of October this weekend (in Denver).

[@Tasha352]

Such an amazing video . You did a good job . All that content was simple and easy to understand. Keep going on girl .

[@DeannaVy]

Thank you Tasha! :)

[@mlokrongly09]

I stumbled across your channel and I’m instantly inspired by your calm demeanor and creativity. Subscribed!

[@dntl408]

So happy to see you live up to what you said in High School by changing the world and inspiring others. Congrats on this channel and I can't wait to see it grow!

[@dustinreynolds1552]

I think minimalism can be summed up in the simple phrase. "if you don't use it then you don't need it"

[@trackingmylifeaway1931]

minimalism is taking a weight off your shoulders, it has changed my life and perspective so much! living with less for sure is key to a happy life!

[@nonbinarygoblinonarainbow4672]

It's so nice to someone talking what *real* minimalism is! (Or at least should look like), great great video! This year I worked soooo hard on the mental and digital decluttering and it's been a real adventure!

[@coreyw5981]

I loved how you discussed your struggles along the way of finding your own definition of minimalism. I definitely am catching my mistakes and still trying to find my version. I did start selling TOO much stuff. Things that even brought me happiness. And yes i also thought i cant be a true minimalist unless i switch out all my belongings amd spend more to have higher quality everything.

[@kingmichaeltheearchangel3593]

I love being a back pack minimalist💞

[@ElizabethRodriguez-tp3pn]

Thank you for this. I have watched many minimalism videos trying to get my hoarding fixed and so far nothing has comforted me like this video has.

[@grayvofficial]

I am also into minimalism for a month now and I am very amazed on how it changed me drastically. Looking forward to your journey. 😎

[@karenwalsh3859]

So well said! It's not just about getting rid of stuff, it's keeping only the stuff that makes you feel happy 😊

[@carolynnq7308]

I have to say that I loved the honesty of this video! I loved that she pointed out her interpretation and her mistakes and what's she has learned. A job well done!

[@jacobcosquer]

I am so glad that this has gotten the amount of traction that it deserves, I hope that going forward more and more people can experience the true essence of minimalism.

[@barbwired10]

Clearing mental space is the biggest plus of this decluttering experience. Hoping to achieve my own minimalist life too! Thank you for the reminders

[@TheSabadine]

Thanks for a refreshing take on minimalism. I love your sense of humour! You've got yourself a new subscriber 😊

[@opalacios666]

I like the idea of having what you use, what brings you joy but having the freedom to own things and not have things own you. Thanks for sharing. I appreciate your point of view.

[@rebeccaparker9703]

I’m just starting out with the idea of minimalism, but already finding my mind clearer as I declutter and taking small steps to ensure the clutter doesn’t reappear. I’m not a sentimental person when it comes to things which helps.

[@beadalmeida]

This video was so nice to watch. I didn't find myself going through the comments, suggested videos not even once! Thanks.

[@hopeh6176]

I really enjoyed your footage.. I've been living with less for many years. Its the best ..The list is endless to the quality of life it gives you. Blessings enjoy the journey 🌿

[@georginapinto6134]

I’m commenting for the algorithm :)

[@katherineelkins2295]

Same

[@PaddyPilot]

Same

[@adrianciuhu9523]

I like turtles .

[@anastasiaffy2878]

Me too :)

[@jcmc8220]

@@adrianciuhu9523 😂

[@nayelilove5034]

I’m so glad you talked about how at first you kind of struggled. It’s refreshing. I think what a lot of minimalist don’t talk about is being content with what they have. I seem to always see videos of people just decluttering. Getting rid of things doesn’t fix things. I like your approach.

[@iamalady461]

I just moved and my possessions feel heavy to me right now. I feel it was meant for me to watch your video. Thank you. I'm going to lighten the load.

[@victoriajensen8484]

Loved this! Thanks 🙏🏼🌸💕 Started my minimalist journey 5/6 years ago & it just keeps going!

[@anaidchrietzberg812]

Everyone’s take on minimalism is unique to their environment and personal goals. Your take on the subject is very refreshing! My goal is to save money for our toddler’s education, for my retirement but to also enjoy the purchases I make and not hoard them. 😌

[@jordanrose2619]

I absolutely loved your take on minimalism! Thank you for sharing your knowledge and opinion, as it can be a complex subject. I can't wait to see what else you do!

[@stephandozzie]

Beautiful video!! I completely agree with you. I am looking forward to watching more that you create!

[@keithbowen9561]

Grateful to have come across this and heard a deeper more nuanced side to minimalism

[@rachelr5049]

Love hearing about your journey and your sage advice

[@DeannaVy]

Aww thank you Rachel! That means a lot!

[@theamador24]

I have been doing minimalist a couple of years but this video made me feel a lot better and im going to upgrade minimalis! Thank u

[@TheAuntieX]

Excellent video! Thank you for posting it!

[@sebastianreyes8526]

One thing they teach you in the armed forces is to pack light, only have what you really need with you.

[@justadudeintheworldman.120]

Yup & have it be useful and not too expensive in case you lose it or in case the enemy gets it off you.

[@denisepatrick5547]

This is such a great video! KZbin nowadays is filled up with minimalism videos, but very few actually talk about the importance decluttering *digital & mental spaces*.

[@lindahoffa4653]

Decision fatigue......what a great phrase!

[@amalexander7711]

This gave me a great perspective on minimalism and how I can benefit from it. Loved this video!

[@bonnydavis3533]

Absolutely loved this and your discovery, such a wonderful story.

[@heryanisu6351]

You have a really soothing, calming voice

[@saramarkowicz]

Ok, I am so glad I found your channel. You have a GREAT mind, I love the way you see things, how you talk and your video is really beautiful. Thank you for the work !

[@IngridsVanlife]

Excited to watch this! Came up in my recommendations. Thanks KZbin 🙏🏼🤩

[@Laser82]

I 💕 the fact you questioned you philosophy and explained this. Brilliant vlog

[@brucemah609]

Thank you for being so real!!

[@tanyal7122]

I really enjoyed this! I can't wait to check out your other videos👏👏

[@julesvonbavy]

That was so lovely and reflective. Thank you.

[@solisetlunae8966]

Thank you for this video ♥️ it’s been so helpful for me as I’m on my journey to a more minimalist life

[@cinthialissette_]

Wow! How do you only have 4k subscribers?! You just took the words right out of my mouth in this video! Well said. New sub!!

[@hermionehart3091]

I sm really grateful that people are stressing the importance of not replacing your old stuff for more expensive good quality stuff immediately.

[@sameenaarr9595]

I’m so happy this was in my recommendations - I feel so much better just watching this. Subbed ❤️

[@linalorenz9434]

Thank you Deanna 🙏 Yes, really inspiring video ❤️🌟

[@KittyKitCat100]

I am just now learning about minimalism and am working on incorporating it into my life. In the past couple of weeks I have probably donated 1/3 of my belongings and I don't regret it at all. In the past couple of weeks I have probably donated 1/3 of my belongings and I don't regret it at all. It feels very freeing to my soul and it is amazing how much easier it is keeping the house clean.

[@maracuja320]

You brought it to the point! As Marie Kondo also said, disguarding and keeping things can be (at least) equally satisfying. Keep going 😊

[@mauramckay14]

This is so insightful! Thanks for sharing.

[@ShadowRaven66669]

Learning the difference between minimalism and simplicity is an important lesson. ♥️

[@eightybananas4515]

I love your content! I just watched a Trash is for Tossers vid and you are way more sincere and real.

[@thathyggelyffe9606]

Such a great video! I’m so glad these ideas have helped you. So inspiring!

[@DeannaVy]

Thank you so much! I'm so glad I stumbled on these ideas :)

[@DionneWard]

Great video and so there! I tried Minimalism about 3 years ago then some serious life stuff happened and I took a break, lost my way and now back full time in to Minimalism. My health is better. I have stepped of the commercial treadmill and feel happier. I am still on my journey from Hoarder/ shopaholic to minimalist and embracing it 🌸

[@ambiesmitty]

Hello from Denver! That weather check is so accurate! I work at Voodoo Doughnuts and recognized the donuts at 6:36 💗🍩 I subscribed even before I saw that, I’m loving your content!

[@LittleCutieABDL]

I truly love your video and this part you were explaining here that you personally took from your understanding and applied. I've always knew of minimalism and growing up I never had much and became grateful for what I had though also I would receive a lot that I would keep for the sake of it however it would not feel or be of purpose and I would always know I must wear it or I cannot throw it out but now I am learning, I like to be comfortable in my clothing, just because something is pretty, if it doesn't feel comfortable or fit me correctly or as I like, I no longer get it therefore I am more selective on the items that I need, I am saving the environment a bit more and only focus on what I require, things that make and aid my life on the practical aspects of day to day life, all the while never tiring of them because I always need them and always use them Love, Mila

[@DrParmesan]

You point out that many minimalists can fall into the trap of hoarding minimalism. This video is inspiring and beautiful!

[@AnnieGill7]

Thanks for your thoughts and practices on minimalism. I am on my way finally!

[@lorraineturton4485]

Your video is truly an expression of the personal journey you have gone through. It represents how you eventually reached your present state. Minimalism has enabled you to find that calmness within and I appreciate how you shared it with such intelligence and clarity. Thank you so much, I can relate to all you have said. :-) continued good health to you :-)

[@DeannaVy]

I really appreciate your thoughtful words! Thank you Lorraine! :)

[@KA2HRO]

Since I started getting rid of stuff, I now feel I can devote more time in getting justice for Johnny.

[@rufinokopolos]

I'm totally addicted to the minimalist lifestyle, even when hiking the Appalachian trail other hikers tell me I'm a extreme version of minimalism. I own about a small backpack of essentials and even that I continue to attempt to remove the need to carry. I also walk around as my main mode of transport, and live nomadic and outside in most situations if possible. It's very addictive how easy life is with less, awesome job and thanks for sharing.

[@giancarlodulanto2668]

Yeah, you get back time.

[@meadowwalk]

Loving your vibe and the humor!!!

[@DeannaVy]

aw thank you!

[@patbest7057]

Find what works for you is what I took the most from this over 60 lockdown in Oz been decluttering new found mental peace only left to minimalse toxic ppl in life feel that's equally as important as physical home decluttering great info

[@leastidyworld4365]

Thank you for the inspiration.

[@briangray1704]

This is such an informative and fun video. Excellent work! I laughed, I understood, and I heard the message.

[@prosaically]

The two donuts plus thumbs up was captivating. 🥰

[@nocnocnocnoc]

Im now trying to be minimalist. Parting from stuff is hard. You really helped me with the get rid of cheap stuff and buy better things. I was just about to do that, but that's not what it's primarily about. Thanks for the lesson.

[@youtubingbabs]

Such pleasant imagery and editing!

[@AshishYadav-eo8du]

Minimalist means that buy what you love or need but you should not be stressed about that product.If buying your favourite brands give you joy then buy them.do what you love and makes you happy.

[@starfoxflow7845]

Yes!! Find what works for you. It’s not about the stuff. It’s about simplifying life to find what you truly value and come back to your authentic self.