Mental Minimalism: A Simple Strategy for More Peace of Mind

[@april2544]

I was trying to get my mother to move into my house and I told her when she did, we could have coffee every morning on my gorgeous patio. This video made me think to myself, I don’t have coffee on my patio enough in the morning by myself because I am too busy. So this morning I got up 5 minutes earlier and went out barefoot to my patio and just sat, no phone, to drink coffee on my patio. I LOVED it! I will do this every day. Thanks for sharing this message and video

[@commonsense2832]

Yes, Dawn is so great to watch and very inspiring. I think I will copy you to tomorrow. It sounded like so much fun, like how it felt when I was a little girl. Thank you for that. God bless....

[@aliciam6177]

When you were talking about gardening being therapeutic I was reminded of Corrie TenBoom saying in the “Hiding Place” when concentration camp prisoners were set free and wandering around lost and wounded after the war she opened a home for them. She said no matter how bitter, frightened, or traumatized a person was, if they were going to start healing it started in the garden. It sounds like finding peace and restoration in a garden is a gift from God.

[@sensoryparenting]

Literally just finished that book for the second time and was making that same connection! What a book! What a life! What a God!

[@paulajohnson7075]

Life began in a garden!

[@scrappedlives]

@@paulajohnson7075 Same thought here. 🙂

[@rachelo3548]

I am a bee keeper! Tell tom to let that clover grow! It is the largest nectar source for honeybees this time of year. Clover is also a nitrogen fixer, it is so good for your soil! ❤🐝

[@blackwhite1406]

@Rachel O ° Bee keeper, Wow! That's awesome! 💞

[@melz685]

We NEED the bees!!!

[@kathywilson1001]

My dad was also a 🐝 beekeeper for forty years here in 🇬🇧 UK. They are SO important as you know. I’m so proud of my dad and his expertise x

[@blackwhite1406]

@@kathywilson1001 As you should be-e!!! 😁 Bee-autiful 🥰 Sending you a big Texan hug 🤗

[@kathywilson1001]

@@blackwhite1406 Gratefully received, and it was such a good hug 🤗 thank you! Sending you bear hugs back from Sheffield (2 hours from London in the middle of the UK). Home to the Human League xx

[@malialavallee7424]

Aloha! “Grounding” has been part of the Hawaiian culture for centuries. It’s part of why hula dancers dance barefoot and often outdoors. It connects the dancer to the natural world and their ancestors. Thank you for sharing Dawn! This video truly resonated with me.

[@cherylwilsenach3082]

My daughter has been quite overwhelmed, so we went on a picnic today at Hampstead Heath (London, England), and sat by a pond with our shoes off. It felt like we were on holiday. My daughter relaxed and I sketched for the first time since last year. I was tempted to take my paperwork with to catch up on, and am so glad I did not!

[@sulagnapanda3332]

In India we advocate being in contact with the five elements of Nature every day for some time and soil/earth is one. Walking barefoot is very important and even gardening. It helps in cleansing. You will get used to the bees and they will get used to you. Thank you Dawn for another thoughtful video. ❤️

[@alenatorres7071]

I love this!

[@suziediva]

Yup... & the base of the foot have nerve endings that run through the body... so by walking on the grass you are providing your foot with natures pressure point massage... impacting your whole system! Pretty cool👍

[@mwahha6965]

Yes!! I read that there’s scientific evidence that touching the earth /soil ie gardening helps us and our stress even if just a houseplant

[@shallimolinda]

I think often about getting barefoot and connect with nature. But taking the time (from decluttering) to do it is the challenge.

[@shiflett82]

American culture has gotten so far from nature that walking barefoot in your own yard is considered disgusting by many people.

[@shirleygermain5707]

Tom, don't get rid of your clover. The bees love it. People are starting to do clover lawns. I have been grounding for 5 yrs; it's good for you. Remember when you were a kid and always running barefoot? Start doing it again!

[@julielamere9282]

I'm in complete agreement regarding the clover lawn. It took me 5 years but I finally convinced my husband to stop paying a service to come and turn our lawn into, essentially, a 'perfect' green carpet constantly needed fertilizer and watering and weed killers etc. Since we've been laying in clover seed over Th past years our lawn has never been so low maintenance, so green. Yes we have more bees now but we also have more birds AND we now have rabbits & a ground hog coming to nibble the clover!! So beautiful and in balance.

[@shirleygermain5707]

@@julielamere9282, It also stays green in a drought.

[@dubosesjoy]

Oooh! I just learned about grounding! I’ve been intentional to go barefoot outside more!

[@anitas5817]

Yes the clover is nitrogen fixing and fertilizes the soil. Plus clover is beautiful.

[@ryangiangrudderham6073]

same here! I added clover to my front and back yards the past spring and I love how low-maintenance they are. With this summer being so hot and dry, my clover yards still look nice and green. We have bunnies, squirrels, and chipmunks in our yards too. It makes me feel good to do my part for the environment!

[@rashmigr1657]

The best investment we’ve made in our home is getting rockers for our front porch. watching the hibiscus petals open and become full bloom flowers is the best thing I start my day with

[@mariaevans5046]

Before lockdown, I started walking my dog "very early" in the mornings I carried it on all through lockdown in the UK, sadly she's died but I'm still getting up at stupid o'clock to walk for an hour in the countryside. It has been so uplifting - I'm sure God Willing I will keep this habit up for as long as I am able.

[@megpierce979]

"Stupid o' clock'' really tickled my funny bone!! :)

[@NdnUrbanCat]

So sorry for your loss. Please take comfort knowing you gave your fur baby the best life possible.

[@teresabell1014]

Sorry for the loss of your dog.

[@paisley8519]

Maria, this made my heart go out to you. So sorry you lost your walking buddy, but so glad you continue walking the good walk! It will probably do more for you than just about anything else, right? Hang in there!

[@brendamcelyea1246]

And maybe get another doggie when your heart is ready? 😍

[@kaylarson3843]

I had a mountain cabin years ago and in the evenings once a week I would do "no electricity night" what that basically boiled down to was I didn't turn on my light switches. The rest of the house had electric. I would light my lamplights and walk thru my hose with just candlelight it just gives everything and soft edge. No TV or media consumption was allowed. I found myself looking forward to that day of the week and planning things to do in the house without added electric.

[@junetidd7719]

I like your idea. Thx for sharing!

[@robindavis672]

Sound like a “Sabbath” experience!

[@tamrab2708]

We had the power out recently and I talked to my husband about this. He was complaining about all we couldn’t do. For example he wanted to look at a book. But I reminded him our ancestors that lived by light/dark had better circadian rhythm and planned their days better because having no light by a certain time determined what you could or couldn’t do, helping us to prioritize.

[@jeanne-mariesiegfried221]

This is my favorite video yet. Thank you so much.

[@Eagle-gl7bq]

This is cool! I gonna look into this idea 💡 🤩

[@monicawalls8184]

Walking barefoot on your property is a level of peace so attainable yet so rejected. Glad to see it coming back. Put in my notice to my chaotic job ...on my way to slower living and mental peace 🕊️

[@ktortora611]

Congratulations! Welcome to the world of the retired. It’s so much more fun and peaceful.

[@beckpender]

I wish I had a yard to walk in. Live in a crowded condo complex, patio has tile. Need to go to a local park.

[@thesender6321]

Patio tiles “count” as earth. They’re made of clay (which is earth), and they’re laid either on concrete (also a form of earth) or on the ground (earth). BTW, A house thats built on a concrete slab with no crawlspace or basement is also earth. As long as you’re walking barefoot on porcelain/clay and not on carpet or some sort of vinyl flooring, you’re earthing. Don’t believe it? Try putting an automotive battery on the floor with nothing to insulate it from the clay tile. See how quickly the battery charge is depleted into the earth. True, you don’t get the gentle breeze and the flowers, but it’s better than nothing and you also don’t get the stickers, ticks, fire ants, etc.

[@brendamontanye9877]

re: white clover: copied: "Because clover takes nitrogen out of the air and soil and makes it available to your lawn, it helps the lawn grow healthier and more pest-resistant, and reduces the amount of fertilizer required. It also requires less frequent mowing, attracts honeybees and other pollinators (although that may not be a positive if you’re allergic to bee stings), and breaks up compacted soil." I love all the clovers in my grass :)

[@hanneshuette]

I have always loved clover too 🍀🧡 And it makes for great honey 🍯

[@ferretfan.]

I am learning to love the clover and dandelions in my lawn 😊

[@shadegarden7375]

But, not close to your garden!! You will not get pollinators in your garden…. Clover is much easier to them…

[@cara_eachordinarymoment]

Yes! I was going to comment the same thing on the clover! 🤩

[@epicnamepwns1242]

Yes, the white clover we see in the video is a natural and healthy part of a lawn or pasture/meadow ecology. Sometimes it's even deliberately sown as ground cover, "green manure" or soil-restoring cover crop. Where white or yellow clover thrives this year the grass can flourish next year and few true weeds will proliferate. You can even eat it if no chemicals have been applied.

[@mama-cita]

Oh I like how philosophical this channel is getting! It's not just about decluttering our homes but it's about decluttering our minds and spirits. I love it💕

[@gloriaschannel4848]

I make little rules for myself. 1st cup of coffee outside (still barefooot); all texting/phones I must be standing not sitting; airing the house (regardless of weather) is first daily (no thinking required) task; if I can't sleep in the middle of the night GET UP and step outside just to listen to the silence, etc. I'm still quasi-quarantined so listening to you guys is like having company - so THANK YOU!

[@Chrissyhappy]

Thank you. I’m going to implement these ideas.😊

[@jessimaness7927]

Interesting! My dad used to say that after driving his 18-wheeler when he returned home he knew he'd be unlikely to sleep, so he would take off his boots and stand outside in the yard before going to bed so that he could actually wind down and fall asleep. I didn't know it was called earthing and I think at that time I thought he was crazy, but I love being outside when I can, even though I have an office job. I found this "earthing" thing works for me too> I always feel better after planting flowers, walking in the yard, or even just sitting outside on our deck watching the hummingbirds enjoy the flowers I've planted. It's great. You should be very proud and excited that you are wise beyond your years.

[@auni2955]

Oh thats so cool. There’s also earthing mats , (which you’ve probably heard of.) but its a cool way to feel a little more connected to the earth when , lets say at a desk :)

[@SimplySusan]

Guuuuurrrrrlllll… you just almost caused my brain to explode. The minute you mentioned going outside, connecting to the earth and mentally unplugging I literally came up with every excuse in the book: I don’t have enough time. It’s too hot. I live in the city. It’s a lot louder outside than inside. My “to-do” list is a mile long. Who’s going to watch the kids? Oh my goodness… I am so embarrassed of all the excuses that bubbled up instantaneously! But you know what you just reminded me of? One of the strongest quotes I’ve ever heard is from the book/novel “The Color Purple” where (I think) Celie says something like, “ Do you know God gets pissed off when you pass by the color purple and don’t appreciate it.” when she passes a bunch of gorgeous lavender flowers. (My memory of this scene in the movie is a little cloudy because it’s been a while but that’s basically the gist.) My point? While God did create many, many beautiful things indoors he created this vast beautiful thing called nature on this planet for us to enjoy and flourish in. When I bring things back to a spiritual and God-centered place… It’s amazing how all the excuses just wash away. Thank you for pushing me on this. You have no idea how much I needed it.🌸🌺🌼🌻🌿🌎

[@blackwhite1406]

@Simply Susan °You can do it!!! WootWoot 🥳

[@susannagiesey9657]

Agree! Bringing things into a God-focused perspective clears the clutter.❤

[@SimplySusan]

@empressm013 Oh my goodness you just made my day! I actually have been outside for hours today and it was super rainy! Rain is actually cleansing in an odd way… You know? I am proud of both of us! 💖💖💖

[@SimplySusan]

@@blackwhite1406 I totally went outside!!! In the rain!!!! And I have curly hair!!!! LOL!!! Thank you so much for giving me the sweet nudge I needed. You are a fantastic cheerleader 🥳

[@SimplySusan]

@@susannagiesey9657 When you put Him first… everything beautifully falls into place 🌈✨😊

[@briannalarsen3601]

Prayer is one of the few things that calms me and my busy mind. I get overhwelmed/anxious in crowds and loud places. And I often think how the devil used busyness (total weakness of mine!) to distract us from the things around us that are constantly bringing the Lord glory. Even a simple bird or flower. It's my goal to unplug, smell the flowers (gardening has been so calming to me also this year!) and get back into reading my Bible more. Even journaling when I read helps a ton. Thanks for the beautiful insight!

[@tracyjanzen9017]

Yes BUSY Being Under Satan's Yoke

[@shahilanathan8067]

Can you recommend any bible passages for anxiety and feeling stuck. Lately, I am really struggling at working from home. I know I'm so blessed to be able to even work from home, but I am feeling so overwhelmed every day. thanks

[@christinenewcomer8595]

@@shahilanathan8067 I have been going through some tough medical issues for quite awhile now and when I am in the hospital or going through a medical procedure, I always remember Phil 4:13. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Hope things get better for you 🙏

[@shahilanathan8067]

Thank you@@christinenewcomer8595. I will try reading it tonight. Good luck with everything you're going through as well. 🙏🏾❤

[@christinenewcomer8595]

@@shahilanathan8067 thank you…you too ❤️🙏

[@rickandsally]

I watched Diane’s KZbin video on praying and knew it was put there for me! I I started praying yesterday while driving to and from work. Normally I would be more focused on the upcoming stress of the day, or what went wrong and became stressful during the day. Praying helped me focus on something much more important, God and other people. I forgot about my issues and thanked God for what was good, prayed for others in need of prayer, and looked at the beauty around me and praised God for that. Thank you for all your goodness!

[@johanneperry3912]

Last summer I had dental implants and the pain was so great that the meds didn't touch it. Worst pain in my life (coming from a gal that chose natural childbirth). Many days later I decided to put Earthing to the test. I spent most the day outside in my backyard and miraculously the pain was so much less that I could handle it without taking any pain pills. It always took about 15-20 minutes before I felt the affects of connecting to the earth. It must be Mother Nature's way of helping out her children. ;-)

[@harmonymiller7999]

Dawn, have you heard about Dr. Caroline Leaf?! She has a book called Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess and her work is phenomenal! She has helped me process the mental clutter in my brain! She also has a podcast which I LOVE because I LOVE to hear her voice! I believe she is from South Africa! Also, have you heard about talking to your plants? Hey, it may also be a placebo...but my 5-year-old daughter and I started talking to our peony and hydrangea bush this year and I kid you not they were absolutely huge and gorgeous! Try it! Talk to your trees! Say nice things, positive things, kindness! Dawn, thank you for sharing what is on your heart! This is exactly what I needed to hear! Thank you!

[@angiedimsdale9016]

Dr Caroline Leaf is anointed of God. She truly understands man’s tri-part being...spirit, soul (mind, will, emotion) and body. I consider her my mental health therapist and she graciously puts her wisdom online for all to access freely.

[@SPTLC]

My mom always said that we should talk to our plants…

[@tinab758]

I found a way to feel "grounded" is to find a rock, not too heavy but with enough weight to feel its resistance when you hold it. Just hold it in my 2 hands, close my eyes, take some breaths and just feel the weight. I focus on the weight of the rock in my hands and it has an impact, for me. Feel less anxious and more "grounded". Thanks for the time & effort you put into this video. The mental part of ourselves gets overlooked. Kudos to you

[@blackwhite1406]

@Tina Belz ° What a great idea! Thank you ❤️ 😊 🎈

[@collarclatch6414]

Great idea ! my grass is full of stickers that hurt. I will get a rock.

[@brendamcelyea1246]

Tina, you rock!😆

[@loramcclamrock5549]

Sounds like a great alternative. Maybe thats why kids like to collect rocks?

[@blessedhitchhiker]

Thank you for this. I live in a city and going barefoot is not practical for many reasons. However, holding a rock...that I can do! Gosh...thanks so much!

[@GabrielleGeorge]

I love this thought process. I heard a Pastors wife say one time that "We can't control every negative thought that fly's into our mind but we don't have to build it a nest." -Shara Mckee

[@robindavis672]

Amen!

[@tiffanyhowton5008]

Love Shara McKee!

[@freemanlb1]

as a mental health provider myself, I appreciate your humility, and your content in general, so much! thanks for sharing. I had intuitively known this through experience, but hearing you say it that way is so helpful and puts things into perspective :)

[@jeng6786]

Mental health provider, would this help with ADHD?

[@Itallnew]

We all need to get back to this and to nature. We need to get off of social media and return our focus to our homes and families. The world was better when that was our focus. Loved this!

[@sherrymacdougall1167]

my husband and I walk together twice a day, morning and evening to start and end the functional part of the day and we never miss because we love it - we also have a "lights out evening" every now and then where we sit together and talk without sounds or lights... sounds weird, but it's so awesome.

[@lobkethijssen]

Oh, this sounds weidly awesome!!

[@etsukotsurukawa3769]

I've been very ill the past few years and finally got stuck at home. You're so right, Dawn, going outside for even 5 minutes will help my body and mind in a positive way. Thank you for this video. You have given this 64 year old a chance to heal.

[@shellyhollingsworth3909]

I live in Florida. I love the water but I don't have a pool. When I'm feeling really stressed, I go to the downtown pier. I walk out and just focus on the water. It is sooo relaxing! Strangely, it's never been crowded when I go. It is definitely my calming place. It's not far away, so I really need to treat myself by going more often. Yes. That will be a new healthy habit! Thanks for the inspiration!

[@thisanyfitlife912]

I tell my family constantly, they must get at least 15 min outside each day, not only for the sun to create the vitamin D, but for physical and mental well-being. I love the information you shared and basically summarized in this and plan to share it with my family. Thank you SO much Dawn. It's nice to hear we all have the same challenges, so we don't feel alone in it!

[@toriahennesey]

Those trees are coming along wonderfully! Mycorrhizal fungi may help the trees access the water and nutrients they need. And the fine, water-uptaking roots are much further from the base of the tree. A constant stream of water can erode the supporting dirt underneath the main trunk . Even if you just turn the hole in the bucket 180, it'll help. You're doing a great job!

[@ktortora611]

Wow! You know your stuff about trees. Thanks for the advice.

[@ericksonsails]

I was going to point this out too. You explained it well.

[@olivemaycards]

I have heard that the best spot to water is just inside where the leaves will naturally drip when it rains - is that right? I was a bit worried that the stream of water being so close would damage the trunks.

[@ericksonsails]

@@olivemaycards I agree, just inside drip line

[@onlyvistarick3607]

I listen to soft music, and think of the things God has made for us.

[@susannagiesey9657]

I sit on my deck and birdwatch. Also, I'm taking advice from Diana and reading the Word everyday. Reminds me of your trees!!! "1 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. 2 But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. 3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper."

[@angelainsull4634]

I love this. We have always encouraged our kids to go around barefoot for the same reasons. I gave up my job as a secondary teacher to be outside in nature more as it felt sooooo good. I now have my own business as a dog walker and absolutely can't imagine being trapped inside when I don't have a choice. Nature is awesome. Creation reminds us of awesomeness

[@cherrybomb3595]

I appreciate this post but I also just wanted to thank you in general. I come from a long line of people who kept cluttered homes with lots of stuff. It was really all I knew. I have been going through a lot of your previous videos over the past few weeks. I have been doing a major declutter and while I am nowhere near being a minimalist (and may never be), I can say I have felt a huge weight off my shoulders with every bag I have donated (more than 40 bags and boxes now). I started with clothes that didn't fit or that weren't being worn, and I have also donated some books, DVDs, toys, and even half my pots and pans. I donated my spice rack this morning and I was so happy to have that new found counter space! I truly appreciate your non-judgemental advice. As you end each video with "I love you," I just want to say I love you too. Thank you so much.

[@SpanishwithNeena]

God speaks through nature. We live in a subdivision, but I can sit on my back patio and hear birds, crickets, and tree frogs. I see squirrels, rabbits, many varieties of birds and sometimes deer. I read my Bible each morning along with a devotional and spend some time worshiping, meditating and praying, which refreshes my mind and improves my attitude.

[@danielleporcaro5422]

Mental clutter is real and it's so hard to get rid of! I've found that exercise and being outside help me the most to calm my mind and refocus my attention. Thank you for your light, Dawn! I sit by my phone anxious for your new videos on Tuesdays and Fridays lol. In all seriousness though, your positive energy has given me hope during one of the darkest times in my life. I am deeply and genuinely grateful for you and your family ❤

[@terristewart6119]

I walked many hours last year letting God bring interesting things to my eye. No agenda, no “I must do x number of steps,” -just meandering. It was so very peaceful!

[@teresabell1014]

Nice idea, I walk every morning for exercise. It has become a chore, so I'm going to change my mindset.

[@gailtaylor1215]

@@teresabell1014 I take my camera with me on my walks as there is always something beautiful to take a photo of, and a small shopping bag to help keep things tidy for mother nature, and my community by cleaning up along my walking route. Something like this might make it a more enjoyable walk for you Teresa :).

[@jayli6423]

Highly simplified bullet journalling has really helped my mental clutter. I get my thoughts and worries out of my head and on paper so I don’t have to think about them, and it guides my attention back to the things that truly matter to me most.

[@robindavis672]

I’ve found Scripture writing to have this affect of gratitude and peacefulness. Google Lara Casey, Write the Word to see my favorite format (you can also do it, like I do, in a simple composition book from back to school sales). And if you go outside, it’s a double blessing!

[@danetteh07]

I play with my grandbabies! Everything is such a wonder to them and everything is magical! I love that innocence so very much!

[@TheAtWhatCostBlog]

That quiet corner…..POWERFUL! I’ve also been sitting outside for a little bit everyday even though it’s blazing hot in Georgia. Just to sit and take note of the sounds, the smells, the breeze (even if it’s just hot air moving around 😆) and it’s been super helpful! Great video friend! 😘

[@lhydrenn8980]

Let's NOT SKIP AD for Dawn's channel to also help her in growing her vlogs.... 😍😍😍 Thank you Dawn for all the ideas

[@martytrout6252]

I've spent the last four months in my backyard. Tomato plants, zucchini, basil, rosemary, lemon tree.(had a fig) I turned my patio into a secret garden with a small pond with fish. (they had babies!) It's been so rewarding to be outside. My son and I eat lunch and dinner on the patio most of the time now. I also decorated in a tropical theme for when my sisters came over for a lunch date.

[@sivjaneaslaksen2005]

Thank you for another inspiring video. My "quiet place" is walking along the sea. I love the calming sound of the waves.. If it is too cold to spend time outside, i still open my doors to let fresh air in. All year around, even though i live in Norway😊 It always makes me feel good.

[@rebeccalohnes4016]

I read. I walk. I journal, the old fashioned way. Writing with a pen on paper is relaxing and it forces me to think about the subject l'm writing about which helps me deal with the tough issues and let some things go (mental decluttering).

[@maryh3907]

Agree! I just had to make an important decision I wrestled with it emotionally and mentally for a while. I finally committed some time to journaling and was able to find clarity and peace.

[@Simply.Mariela]

My space where I get away is my balcony. I sit there without my phone maybe sometimes a book and that’s it. I love listening to the birds chirping it’s so relaxing 🙂

[@LittleMama5]

I started a vegetable and flower garden this spring and it's been a wonderful resource for being in nature. I love watching the plants grow, it's such a miracle!

[@maryprimiano3854]

You are so right!!! My flower garden is my getaway...it's small...a little over the length of two long cars...very manageable, thus enjoyable...no screen time, no bill paying, no cleaning, just me, water, dirt, and flowers...about 40-60 minute escape...thank you for helping me think about it that way♡

[@happypace9414]

For mental decluttering I learned from the books by Julia Cameron. Her lessons include writing in a journal for 15 minutes as soon as you wake up. Write whatever comes to mind and do not edit yourself just let the words flow onto the paper. You will find thoughts, prayers, and to do lists emerge as you sort out your mind. She calls them Morning Pages. I have been doing them outside on the porch which incorporates nature (deer! rabbits! wild turkeys!) as well.

[@annyg1757]

Unplugging from society & plugging into nature has got to be the best medicine ever❣️ Appreciate you sharing.🥰

[@andmelinda]

Your timing for this subject is perfect. Yesterday, I was so frustrated by the constant mental noise I had from watching a few Tik Toks with my daughters. The background music becomes ingrained and I felt like I couldn't hear my own thoughts. I don't know why it has that impact on me. Going outside usually clears my mind, but yesterday it wasn't working. I had to go for an hour long drive with no music. Beautiful trees! Thank you again for all you do!

[@emilymosley3184]

I’ve heard that referred to as “quieting the monkey brain chatter.”

[@mwahha6965]

I really wanted to join my friends on tiktok but it’s so fast paced it actually shortens ur attention span 😆

[@thesender6321]

The lack of background music and other sound effects is one of the reasons Dawn’s videos are such a joy to watch.

[@susanalexander7990]

I think that this is your most important video yet. I really needed to hear this today and I will be sharing it far and wide. Thank you!

[@CULady]

I normally use my patio for sunrises and sunsets as my time outside. During covid it has been my place to go. Bad weather in Michigan I set in my dining room with low light and look out the window for my quiet time. Love my front porch during rainstorms. Unable to do a lot this summer due to my knee replacement surgery but will enjoy it again soon. Thanks again Dawn 💜

[@dorotabrociek]

It's great to have a place where you can find peace and get back to yourself. We have a small garden about 10 minutes driving from our apartment and I love to go there to rest a bit from everyday struggle, water the plants, care for them, watch the bees etc. And I plant many flowers just for them, looking for the ones that the bees, butterflies and others love. We need to take care of them, we really need those little ones! Love from Europe!

[@SimplySusan]

Love anything that will give us peace! Hope you’re having a beautiful day Dawn. You literally brighten up my day every time your bright eyes and joyful smile pop up on my screen. You are such a blessing sis 💖💖💖

[@AlisonV362]

Yay for clover flowers! Clover fixes nitrogen in the ground, attracts pollinators, AND requires less mowing and watering! Loved this video!

[@alenatorres7071]

I crave being outside now. Having kids has probably quadrupled our time outside. Started gardening this year and it has changed my whole perspective. "Perfect" lawns are so lame. Bees and other insects need native flowers and plants for the ecosystem to organically flow.

[@kolielynn4144]

Thats a mean stache bro

[@surrepeight]

Love you, Dawn. You caught my attention with your indoor spot of peace when you can't go outside. Your comment that "of course, the same rules apply - no social media..." etc. This reminded me of the American Cancer Society's program that helped me quit cigarettes back in the early 1980s. Each week, more and more behavioral connections with cigarettes were being cut off. By the 4th week, any time we had a cigarette, we couldn't do anything else - couldn't have a drink, couldn't have coffee, talk on the phone, be with anyone. NOTHING. And we had to wait after eating for a cigarette. 15 minutes week one, 30 min. week two, 45 min. week three and 1 whole hour week four, before a cigarette, and then to have it, go somewhere alone, talk to no one, do nothing else, no music, no nothing. This helped break the cigarette habit when it was so isolating and separated and cheerless. It worked. Your mental minimalism is the same thing - it focuses the mind. Wonderful.

[@helenbuckwalter3955]

I am an avid gardener! I often sit on the ground while weeding my flower beds! I especially like listening to the birds in springtime. Sometimes my phone is with me so I can take pictures of my flowers! Usually I don’t have it on me and if I do I often forget I even have it. Yesterday we went on a shopping trip. I found it very tiring being in commercial spaces trying to hunt down things I needed to buy!

[@cheryllane9949]

I do a daily "walk-about" my garden/yard... its amazing to see (if you look) so many changes in a day. I also enjoy my am tea on the patio just sitting and listening!

[@stephaniewagner8934]

I highly recommend reading “The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry” by John Mark Comer. This book deals a lot with mental minimalism and slowing down to enjoy life!

[@eileenmckeough4044]

@StephanieWagner just put it on reserve at my library. Thank you!

[@mwebb3014]

I just bought this book and have started reading it! So good!

[@kerryverhaeghe3023]

Thank you for the recommendation 😊

[@holly5791]

When I worked outside the home, and we had a stressful day at work, a co-worker would ask me as we were leaving, what I was doing with my evening. I would say, "I'm going home and digging in the dirt." She totally got it and said she may do the same. Ofcourse that was my reference to gardening. Great stress reliever! 🙂👍

[@debbiemyer3006]

The great outdoors is indeed such a leveler for stress-- it siphons my anxiety off my nerves to just feel the breeze on my face and to putter in my garden. Daily, I also practice what my mom always called the Great Exchange. My worries, for Jesus' supernatural peace. This is actively applying the scripture from Phillipians 4:6 & 7. I tell Him my worries and relinquish them to Him, trusting Him to show me how to move forward in my life I stead of fret or work out my own desperate plan. And He gives me His supernatural peace. As I have grown in this mental habit, it has been transforming my life. And I am better able to weather emotional storms when life throws me the inevitable curve balls, because Jesus' peace literally is stabilizing my spirit. It is Him carrying the burden of anxiety that I couldn't carry, I am human not superhuman. Jesus is God, He can handle all my 'stuff'! No matter what it is.

[@user-vp5oo1no7g]

That was very well said, Debbie. He is greater than my worries and fears.Thank you for speaking that!

[@ericawhitfield9289]

Thanks for sharing this! Beautiful word.

[@pattihauck4979]

My husband and I spend time on our patio. Enjoy watching our dog and even interacting with her. I absolutely, love being outside as now we are experiencing hummingbirds. I have 3 nectar feeders that need cleaning and refilling daily. Oh my I thought, is this to much as I make a gallon of nectar about every four days. But those hummingbirds give us JOY. So it is worth it. I got discouraged at first but never gave up. Just like you Dawn we are reaping the rewards.

[@barbkandel777]

This is so true! I always feel better after being outside away from things. Going to try "grounding".

[@kirbylewis6869]

Yes yes yes!! I love the grounding concept! It makes me think of childhood and how children love running through the yard!

[@kingskid8121]

I LOVE spending time outside! It always helps my mind declutter! Listening to music and prayer also help me with peace of mind. Always enjoy your videos! Thanks for all that you do to help all of us! 😊

[@crobinson8475]

Tips on growth. 1st year they sleep, 2nd year they creep. 3rd year they leap! After the trees are a couple of years old they will take off growing quickly. Love this video!

[@elenalunn4052]

I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order. -John Burroughs We are replacing or lawn with clover to help pollinators, just tell Tom he’s on trend and environmentally sustainable! Who wants to keep up with the Jones’ anyway?! Thanks for sharing and enjoy the grass between your toes!

[@rosemariealvarado9902]

"When we finally catch up to the Jones's they refinance " Saw this cartoon years ago. Still funny and true

[@DominiqueFrancon]

I totally believe in this. Walking bare foot in the grass is very calming for me.

[@TexSquirrel]

Prayer. Talking with God, and being still. It’s hard to stay still and quiet because my mind wants race around, but I feel peace when I give up those thoughts to Him.

[@erinvosbury7993]

I walk my lawn barefoot daily. It is soooo good for mindset. Loved this!!!

[@DJ-yw3gf]

Magnificent way to start my day!! Love this!! Leave the"little while flowers" to help feed nature. God's creatures need to eat good things too. Beautiful viewpoint today!! I am going to get a hammock, so if I feel like sitting back and being outside, I can do both. You have inspired many. Keep up the great work!!❤️

[@karahein5248]

At the beginning of the year in my prayer time I felt the Lord encourage me to garden with him this year- to come and spend time with him and the garden. I haven’t got there near as much as I would like- but - it does refresh me. So yes- totally agree- and way better than being on Facebook!

[@monataylor2600]

I ❤️ your videos! I learn something from each and every one! Thank you, Dawn!

[@sprincess61]

I'm so happy to hear you talking about mental declutter, earthing, gardening, prayer and things that help us destress. I've been on a journey of learning to do deep breathing multiple times a day. We get so busy and stressed and we are unaware but our breathing gets shallow. I hang my laundry out during the summer and use this time as my earthing time. I also love gardening and spend a lot of time out doors. When my children were still at home I used to go out to the garden in the evening to weed and destress. Thumbs up for tending those trees.

[@laurenjones4802]

I have been reading a book “ get out of your head” by Jennie Allen. She had the thought that when your mind starts to race on things you have this interesting thought “I have a choice.” Then you can start to assess do I want to entertain the thought do I want to process and think about it or do I want to redirect my thoughts.

[@colleenomarsh2147]

Great book!

[@kristyleavitt8007]

Thank you for this video, Dawn! I love it! Going for walks is a when I unplug, let my mind wander, and often pray❤

[@happymimi5668]

I would love it, if I could walk barefoot in the grass again! I was stung by a bee walking barefoot when I was nine. My whole foot swelled up so much I couldn’t put a shoe on. I haven’t walked barefoot since. I’m 70 yrs old now! I surely hope that you and Tom know that you are a blessing to so many. Blessings, Sheri

[@hannahc2836]

I was stung by a wasp on the underside of my foot while wearing sandals, when I was at school. It’s made me fear wearing open shoes in the summer ever since! 😬 Still, I do like the thought of being barefoot on a sandy beach 😁

[@denisekennemer1991]

Before I retired it was essential for me to disconnect and recharge during my lunch hour. I went to my car, parked in a nearby park w a lake and zoned out while I ate my lunch. Sometimes I journaled to release frustrations or reorganize for the afternoon. It was the best hour of my day sometimes. Thx for sharing what you’re learning on mental minimalism!

[@toriahennesey]

Biophilia (Edward O. Wilson) is the study of the instinctive relationship between humans and the natural environment if anyone's interested in further reading. And those little white flowers are clover, they make for very happy bees and other pollinators :) Thanks Dawn, this was interesting.

[@lrmendel414]

Keep the clover and the bees, but also find a tiny little bottle and put some bleach in it. One drop of bleach on a bee sting will stop the pain instantly ( no kidding). And it doesn't hurt at all ( even though it seems like it would)./

[@toriahennesey]

@@lrmendel414 Bicarb of soda is gentler. Any alkaline (basic) will help to neutralise the acidity of a bee sting.

[@myrnarenoud3056]

What a truth filled video! I’m a country girl at heart and I’m fortunate enough to live in a rural area! I can tell you running barefoot in the grass and working in my gardens are better than any therapy session I could go to!!! God knew what was good for our souls….we just need to be reminded! Thank you!

[@lynettekysar897]

I actually feel like there is truth to getting outside and working a bit everyday. When my husband passed away a year ago, I felt like I needed to start decluttering and rearranging things to accommodate my situation better. I wasn’t sure if I was going to leave my current home or stay. Regardless, I started by watching your You Tubes and got really addicted! I woke up every day and started something to make things better whether I stayed or left. I was getting prepared for what ever. Then when spring rolled around, I found myself wanting to minimize the amount of work I would have to do outside every week too. It was overwhelming! I have done a lot of redoing the landscape and by next spring, I will be happy to say my work load will be a bare minimum. I loved getting my hands in the dirt, finding worms and frogs and watching the birds. I’ve had so many shrubs removed and even removed a tree. I wanted less mental stress on the load I carried just worrying about the yard work. And no, I refuse to pay someone to trim everything up weekly. That’s so expensive! It is rewardingly to see my progress in a years time. Next spring I will have more time to enjoy the fruits of my labor. Love your ideas❤️

[@NdnUrbanCat]

I'm so sorry for your loss. May the resurrection hope comfort you.

[@rosemariealvarado9902]

Thank you for giving me hope. . My precious husband died just 4 months ago followed by 3more deaths. I haven't been able to find my balance yet. I was his caregiver for 44 months and have never lived alone before. My 2 and a half acres has no vegetation at all so feels as barren as I do right now.

[@amandamertz3037]

Love your perspective! My daughter started school this week so the first thing I do after getting back home from dropping her off is make a cup of coffee & sit outside. In Alabama, the morning is my best shot to not melt! 🥵 I watched 2 hummingbirds flit around my dog for a while & had I been plugged in to something I wouldn't have experienced it.

[@anitas5817]

Fertilize your trees - that really helps them the first few years! Dawn, I so enjoy and benefit from your intelligent and insightful videos. Loved this one. Thank you so much.

[@TheDriftwoodlover]

I was going to suggest that too. You can make a “tea” from cow manure and give that … or just put some cow manure on each tree a few times a year.

[@NdnUrbanCat]

Too late to bury a fish with the tree!

[@cecilecoonrod4146]

I hope I’m not repeating something someone has already said. In order to declutter you mind, i.e; destress, you need to let go of your inner turmoil and connect to what’s happening around you using your five senses. When you walk barefoot outside you feel the coolness of the grass, you smell the grass/flowers etc., you see the blue sky, you feel the breeze. You can do this indoors also but that doesn’t explain why my therapist tells me I need to walk outside every day. I love how you explained it and your energy and enthusiasm have encouraged me to actually walk in my grass….. when it’s almost dark and the temperature is down to 80 degrees, lol. Thank you.

[@starson42]

Mulch those trees with untreated cut grass. Don't use fresh as it will burn the trunk. Bag it while mowing & stockpile it for a few days first so as to not burn the tree. Once it's brown, make a thick donut around the trunk out to the drip edge. The grass will keep the weeds away, keep them moist after you water and slowly feed the tree as it breaks down.

[@loxleybattle2591]

I have done this too with great success but I didn’t even wait for the grass to brown- just put it down right away. The most important thing is to keep it away from the trunks- about six inches- you don’t want the trunks to be moist. Cheers!

[@barbaracarr17]

I'm out on my patio watching this. So peaceful

[@sweetteajesus6267]

When I'm feeling anxious, I go weed my flowerbed. Pulling weeds, smelling the dirt, it makes me feel better. I've also been taking my dog for walks. I listen to music, pray, talk to my dog. Its wonderful, even if I had blisters on my foot from not wearing socks with shoes. You're right we need to be outside more.

[@cherylwebb8340]

Life began in a garden-genesis 1. 🙂

[@pamela-yourlifeasart]

YES! Nature is SO grounding and calming. I truly feel at peace when Im out in nature.

[@jennylhenry78]

Grounding is totally a real thing, so glad you're doing this! I need to do this more myself. Absolutely a struggle for me. I have nothing in place to unplug and clear my mental clutter. I have been so stressed, full of anxiety and overwhelm, with feelings of depression for months now. 😔 Since moving just over 2 months ago I feel like everything is chaotic and our routines have yet to work themselves out in our new place.

[@oumaclubbe522]

Thanks for my daily fix. Stay so special & positive. Saying a prayer for you & your family right now

[@melindamciver6134]

Absolutely loved this! As a beekeeper I absolutely appreciate you keeping the clover for the honey bees 🐝 sorry you got stung though!

[@bvong2430]

You have no idea how perfectly timed your message is. Thank you

[@sherrymiller3237]

I love this :) Also, try witch hazel for the bee stings. Just soak a cotton ball and hold it on the sting. It works best if you do it right away and leave it there a while, so we will use a bandaid or tape to hold it on. I'm not completely sure why it works so well; maybe it draws out some of the venom? It works amazingly well on fire ant bites. Without it, the bite will stay irritated and itch for days, but if you apply it immediately, there is no sign of a bite and it never itches. (My sister found a very easy fix for this: She buys the Tuck's pads (the regular old-fashioned ones that are just witch hazel) and keeps them where you can just grab one and apply it to a sting.) Here in Mississippi, the fire ants are no joke and we swear by this. Just get it on there immediately and leave it for a while. Don't let the bees discourage your barefoot walks :)

[@laurenbuenger4863]

I love to quilt and it is nice to have that repetitive motion of sewing blocks or cutting pieces that is calming.

[@lynnsalberg5647]

I love this topic ! Thank you Dawn !

[@pamela-yourlifeasart]

YES to declutter my mind I use various techniques... outside in nature, back in our trees alone, touch trees or plants, EFT tapping, meditation, using my essential oils, journaling. Depending on what IS going on... crying helps immensely to release. I also LOVE water! So having a shower and the water running off my body is SO cleansing for me!

[@andreamiller6200]

Ah, what a literal breath of fresh air and fresh meadow grass! From Michigan, but now in Arizona for almost 25 years and grass is a thing of the past, we have plants all around here that are nearly psychedelic in their intense colors but all of them can HURT you :-D Nevertheless, we moved this past year to a house with a jaw dropping view and every morning when we raise the blinds in the family room and look out to the mountains, those are the 5 minutes of sanity - and sanctity. It sparks gratitude and makes life feel good no matter what is happening outside of those 5 minutes. And thank you today for these 17 minutes among your fields, and for any glimpses in other videos of your gorgeous sunrises now visible through the kitchen window. Thank you so much for sharing those blessings with us!

[@cecehopkins1787]

Andrea, I love your phrase ... those 5 minutes of sanity and sanctity"... Well said! Dawn, thank you for bringing the world back to sanity!

[@andshesmiles6272]

Ive been grounding for months now. I have so much less pain. It really works!

[@HeidiLilley]

I have made a conscious effort this spring and summer to be outside in the backyard in the morning before the sun rises. In the beginning of doing this I would bring my phone and scroll, but gradually I have been doing it without the phone and I sit barefoot quietly listening as the birds wake up and the sky lightens. I have always been a firm believer in putting my bare feet on the ground and I am often doing it before the ground thaws in the spring. I guess as we edge towards fall and winter I have to think about how I can make this a year round thing. Thank you.

[@karenhanson8004]

Grounding works through concrete too so if you have a basement or garage with bare concrete floors though it will obviously be cooler and even cold in the fall and winter it is well worth it! And warming them up in warm water is a treat as well 😉

[@loramcclamrock5549]

I find prayer and especially adoration soothes and invigorates. And our crazy world needs it!