Simplicity

Getting simple in a materialistic, capitalist society is not simple. Capitalism complicates life in order to generate consumer demand by inspiring consumer need through advertising. Growth in capitalism depends on human overpopulation as well as human preoccupation with life's complications. "User-friendly" is really a cynical joke. Getting people to be "users" of the latest technology or gimmick, like craven junkies, is not a human-friendly thing to do.

Practicing simplicity starts with mental clarity. Mental clarity begins with learning my own mind. Learning my own mind begins with reflection, meditation and concentration. Due to the basic hierarchy of animal need, mental clarity can only be approached after general physical health is a daily practice. This requires proper nutrition, proper exercise and proper rest. Again, simplicity is not always simple, when beginning with a body and mind which are unhealthy due to bad habits.

External life for most people does not resemble a Zen garden. However, the internal life of the person who practices is tended like a Zen garden.