10 Things I DON’T OWN OR BUY as a Minimalist (updated)
ABOUT THIS VIDEO:
Hi, I'm Aki, a minimalist who is a school teacher living in a small village in Japan.
In a previous video, I introduced “10 Things I DON’T OWN OR BUY as a Minimalist”.
Today, I’d like to introduce an updated list of 10 more things I don’t own or buy as a Minimalist.
This video is for those who want to learn tips to become a minimalist as well as make your life simple and healthier.
So Let's get started!
WHO AM I:
Welcome to samurai matcha journey! I'm Aki, a minimalist, kimono style school teacher in Japan. I make videos about my usual life in really country side of Japan. You can enjoy beautiful scenery, learn about Japan, and pick up some interesting lifestyle tips.
RROSUCTS（Amazon USA）:
I tried to find products that is similar to my items on amazon in the USA.
・Clay pot: amzn.to/3egpXI9
・Tenugui amzn.to/30Za7yK
・MacBook Air amzn.to/3JfVpEL
・Kai's Petty Knife（Kai Seki Magoroku Damascus Petty Knife） amzn.to/33JiVcT
・Snow Peak sleeping bag(BD103) amzn.to/3FGEObb
BD103 =Temperature Rating 5℃
Mine is BD104 =Temperature Rating 3℃
・Sarashi cloth amzn.to/3qmtgT
・Isamu noguchi akari amzn.to/3swKzEl
・Tetsubin（Iron kettle） amzn.to/3enUxji
This is not mine, but iwachu is one of the famous brand in Japan;-D
・MOFT Laptop Carry Sleeve amzn.to/3ekesiP
・Magnesium amzn.to/3qtUMi8
・Magnesium bag amzn.to/3eHCmoB
I can't find mine, but it's like this. It's important that bag can be closed tightly.
・Tatami floor amzn.to/3JtoMDH
amzn.to/3eRwRnL
I can't find my tatami floor, but these ones look nice! a bit expensive...
・Camera sony α6400 amzn.to/3sW2KU4
・SIGMA 16mm F1.4 DC DN amzn.to/32Xfnn2
PRODUCTS(Japanese site):
・Montbell down pants en.montbell.jp/products/goods...
・Gerworks bamboo bike gerworks.sakura.ne.jp/index_jp...
・Tenugui (MOKU towel) amzn.to/3pNIvow
・Essential oils(TADAIMA) amzn.to/3pSgrjM
・Magnesium amzn.to/3pPpPon
amzn.to/3eAycyT
・Magnesium bag amzn.to/3FGtA6t
・Kimono www.sousou.co.jp/?wovn=en
・MacBook Air amzn.to/31TgXGa
・Fjällräven bag（This is an another type.） amzn.to/3m0somr
・Kai's Petty Knife amzn.to/3DRqwm2
・Small paper lamp（I can't find my type on amazon. This is an another type.） amzn.to/3q7Yb6r
・Snow Peak sleeping bag amzn.to/3pIKp9O
・GOKUMIN mattress amzn.to/3dHmQIT
・Tatami floor amzn.to/3zdCYvD
I'm sorry that I can't find all, but I hope it'll help you.
WHAT I LIKE:
Minimal lifestyle
Matcha
Kimono
Anime(Ghibli)
Japanese food
CONNECT WITH ME:
BLOG samuraijourney.com/
INSTAGRAM / samuraimatcha.journey
FACEBOOK / mizuno.akihito
GET IN TOUCH:
If you’d like to talk, feel free to email me at samuraimatcha.japan@gmail.com I try my best to reply to things but there sadly aren't enough hours in the day to respond to everyone...
Just started my minimalist lifestyle, got rid of my family to save space and money. Doing good so far this is sweet
Hahahaha dead
Same!!! Lol I've found getting rid of my family I do 3 loads a month, don't have any missing socks and I can make my coffee without spending 40 minutes cleaning around the coffee area to get to my coffee pot every morning.
Hahahahahahaha
🤣
🤣👍
I am a maximalist and I love it; nothing makes me happier than having a cosy home with everything I like on display. So this doesn't appeal to me at all, but it is interesting to see someone who lives on the other side of the spectrum.
Someone enjoys a lot of things, someone enjoys little. It is all about the enjoyment. I am happy for ya
I believe you re on the same side, cos you both enjoy the things you have.
:)))) you made my day bro!
Interesting, I'm the exact opposite. Having only what I need makes me happy.
I think I’m in the middle. When I have too much stuff around me it stresses me out and makes me feel unable to work. But I also enjoy having aesthetic objects to look at and enjoy as long as it’s organized.
Sometimes I feel like people get the wrong idea about being a minimalist. It’s not about getting rid of ‘things’ just because you don’t NEED them to survive…Which can be the general attitude coming off of some people. It’s about keeping/buying things that you will actually use AND HAVE ENJOYMENT FROM.
Or even more directly: Not keeping things or getting things that you won't want or need. Right now I'm in the process. I put a few things we use very frequently in the front of the cupboard and I'm putting things we might need if something breaks in the back, for spares but I make a lot of things out of junk getting rid of too much would cost me money rather than free up my time.
But sometimes it is about getting rid of everything. There isn't just one way to be a minimalist. Some people only want a few personal care items and that is how they are minimalists.
@@janree75 that’s fine, what I’m talking about are those who think their ‘version’ of minimalism is *it*. There are too many ‘minimalists’ who act as though 8 forks are too many….period. Uh…no. If you entertain a lot and eight is your comfortable limit, then you Should. Have. EIGHT. FORKS.
thank you. and the idea of hiding books so you won't read them... doesn't make sense..but, if it works for him, then it must be a good idea too
like a sofa
As a librarian I cried a little on the inside hearing your first tip. As someone trying desperately to declutter and minimalize my life, I love how you store the books you have.
Fellow librarian here. I wish more minimalists would talk about libraries as a way to reduce your books!
@@elainehewlett Absolutely 💯!
@@HellenaHanbasquet I also have a huge heart for books. I feel an urgent need to collect and preserve all of them. So, some areas of my life I'm minimal with, like clothing & accessories, and other areas, I'm a little excessive with, like my books.. lol. Balance, right?? 😅 -I will admit though, I HAVE decluttered, donated, gifted and sold books that we no longer love. So, I guess it's progress! lol! I'm still in no hurry to have s minimal book collection.
Us Elites love this slave like behavior and thought
My bookshelves are in the local library apart from some special non fiction books 🎉
Me and my 5 bookshelves let out a collective gasp when he said no bookshelves. Honestly though, this is a very inspiring video. Your apartment is so neat and clean. I've been decluttering for a while but still have a ways to go, but I always feel great every time I get rid of something I no longer need or want.
Me and my 500 books are greatly offended. We’re currently shivering in a corner comforting each other. Theres a point where i think the minimalist thing goes to far. Like the guy own little and talks alot about working. I like to do nurturing of mind, body and soul
I would suggest that if shelves of any type are ok if they are part of your minimalist lifestyle. I for instance don't have much use for closets. I store my clothes on shelves, except for 3 coats that hang up.
For me I have books shelf’s on every wall of my bedroom and there is a wonderful comfort to me being surrounded by my books, and as there is no more space that is a limiting factor in itself. However I well aware this is very personal thing and not at all aligned with minimalism.
I looked qt my bookshelf and said you got to go.
I have a tiny house, but bookcases in most rooms :(
You know you don't have to be a minimalist or want to be a minimalist to appreciate some of the points here. Taking the fabric softener and paper towel for example, helping the environment in such a small way, it's a really great idea
Right up until the dog or kid or cat leave a REALLY HORRIFIC MESS. Just saying. I keep some around for those emergencies. Tho I'll use paper napkins from a restaurant or towels I just dried my hands on.
Us Elites love this slave like behavior and thought
@@windsofmarchjourneyperrytr2823 Exactly. Hairball pukes are not cleaned with rags or cloth. Too disgusting. Definitely paper towels.
❤@@windsofmarchjourneyperrytr2823
This feels like a great guide for people with allergies. I think many people will find that eliminating spaces that collect dust (uncovered books, exposed clothes) or dirt (carpets and rugs) easily, or things that irritate the skin (fabric softener, fabrics that don't get washed as often as they should like sofa cushions) will make their bodies feel better due to how much cleaner their living space is, even if they don't think they have allergies. Not to mention how much easier it is to keep on top of cleaning! EDIT: You're gonna pry my rice cooker out of my cold, dead hands though.
I don't understand why we need a device for that, though? I guess maybe if you don't want to have to sit there and make sure it doesn't boil over...?
@@windsofmarchjourneyperrytr2823 Pretty much. I cook a lot of things at the same time, so having the rice cooker take care of itself gives me one less thing to keep on top of in the kitchen.
@@windsofmarchjourneyperrytr2823 I'm afraid I'll burn the house down so if I do leave the room while cooking I turn the stove off and turn it back on when I come back. Out of sight, out of mind, until I start to smell smoke. But with a rice cooker, I can just set it and leave it to do its own thing.
I have bad allergies and do many of those things already exactly for those reasons. Needs to be easy to clean and not collect dust! I also hate most single use kitchen gadgets, but a rice cooker is a must for me! 😂
I replaced my rice cooker with an multi use instant pot. It is not minimalistic though because I cook rice in bulk and freeze it. For that, I need storage jars. I have a ton of storage jars and I use all of them.
I'm a cluttercore girl. Maximimalism to the fullest. Walls covered in posters, magazine clippings, and articles, several shelves filled with books and old kids meal toys and vintage figurings but something about watching minimalists is so mind blowing and entertaining. I love seeing people be so fulfilled with only the necessities.
If they bring you joy, you follow the principles to minimalism. You just have more things that bring you joy.
I have the opposite problem. I’m a minimalist but things I like, use, need, bring me joy takes hella lot place
Hoarder
@@JK-vc7ie pack rat 🐀
@@JK-vc7ie i'm not sick, i just love life and all the things it brings 💕
I could never be happy hiding my books away, they give me too much joy. But each to his own. I am slowly trying to get rid of the excess, and it’s embarrassing to realize how much there is.
Yessssssssssssssssssss!!!
Same. I just like to look at my books in the shelves It makes me happy
as long as the books dont own you
Me too. I love seeing the books I’ve enjoyed out of my shelf. Also, it’s not necessarily a bad thing to get distracted from your tasks and enjoy a good book.
Actually you can still have 1-2 bookshelves in your room , just don't buy too much as it occupies a lot of space and you may end up feeling overwhelmed
Upon retirement, I looked at my house and realized I had too many things. So I got rid, donated or recycled about 45% of stuff. I still think I can get rid of more stuff. The house looks pretty bare but it works for me. I have 2 dogs who shed so I have to vacuum every day !. I will adopt your fabric softener recipe. This minimalistic approach extended to food buying and better selection of what I need. No red meat , chicken or fish twice a week, no dairy. I make my own bread and grow fine herbs, strawberries in my garden. This is so liberating. Just subscribed! Love from 🇨🇦
True however its obvious that this guy has all the stuff He says He dont have because He shows them all in the video. You think He just got a washing machine and Sofa delivery just to make this video? He owns all of it and is doing the minimalism thing just for KZhead probably in one single room of his house.
I realized the same thing when I retired so iʻve been slowly donating things to Goodwill. If I canʻt part with something at the moment, I put it back and when I clean again (every 6 months) I cycle it into the donations. It took me a while to realize that my grown child really has no interest in what I have collected and would simply donate everything when I depart this world. I cannot live without my vacuum, dusting cloths and various other cleaning supplies that have become my friends since retirement and I definitely cannot crawl around on the floor to mop, sleep, sit or play. And I need my fork, spoon, and knife to eat in a civilized manner.
@@HOLLASOUNDS lol he literally tells us about how he -used- to own them and got rid of them
Red meat is literally the healthiest thing you can eat. This is supported by both science and common sense.
@@HOLLASOUNDS he literally said he used to own it
I love that he has very few possessions, and yet he still has a ukulele. As a ukulele player myself, I think he has the right priorities! 🎶
Man, you took minimalism to a new level. A level not every minimalist would be willing to rise to.
The fact that he got all these items like a sofa in his room just to show for like 10sec is amazing
I’ve seen the sofa in at least one other video so he had it a while I would guess. But what does the living room look like without a sofa ?
@@burrowgroves i saw that too. I wonder what he did to his sofa.
@@zimmermann6292 maybe he gave it away
@@burrowgroves Seems like if you are a minimalist, you don't need a living room. I wonder how he got rid of that room.
@@caibo666 LOL
1. Book shelve 2. Forks 3. Mats/rugs 4. couch 5. Fabric softener 6. Paper towels 7. Music speakers 8. Rice cooker 9. Vacuum sweeper 10. Laundry bag
i agree with 3,5,6,7,8,9,10 dont like to much machines and eco sustainability is what i like. 1its good to have less stuff but i prefer a book shelve, for some books and decoration stuff, 2forks only some can be no match
Thanks, minimalism is getting this information instead of watching a video.
Half of it i also have not.
Us Elites love this slave like behavior and thought
I don’t buy dresser’s, new clothing ( except underwear). I don’t buy paper towels I use towels and wash cloths. I don’t pay for gym membership ( I have a free gym in my complex). I don’t use a dryer. I don’t pay high electric bills. I purchased and use several blankets as well as a 10lb weight blank and warm all winter……
Note to the fabric softener - the store bought softener also tends to build a layer of slime inside your washing machine over time, which then allows growth of mold. So not using that also removes the trouble of mold inside your washing machine and having to clean the washing machine.
I remember visiting my father in Thailand with his Thai wife and her family. It was so inspiring to me to just sit on the floor for eating, drinking and talking. It makes cleaning up very fast and easy and you can get together spontaneously, no matter how many people drop by.
Yes, but depending on who you have over it may not work. Like some people have mobility issues and may actually have a reason they wouldn't want to get down on the floor just to have a hard time getting up again, and maybe with getting down in the first place. And I think most people where I live would simply find it unacceptable to have to sit on the floor, but that is more cultural again. Maybe we should learn to think of furniture and many other things as less "mandatory" in general, and sitting on the floor together could have its own charm. Still good if it works for you, but its not for everyone
@@zakosist Actually lots of Thai people prefer not to sit on the floor, mainly because health conditions. But let’s say it’s not “strange” to sit on the floor.
It was a small rural village and the people there besides one old men in a wheelchair were in a very good health condition that allowed them to get up easily. But of course it depends on what you are used to and also other factors. I think they also have small furniture or seat cushion.
@@zakosist the thing is in the countries where is usual sitting on the floor, they have in consequence, less healthy issues. If you dont seat in the floor, dont take stairs, dont sleeping on the floor, etc, you will have more mobility issues.
when I was a child around seven and a half I meant a family who live down on the end of the block. They were first-generation Japanese. I grew up in the area with their daughter is my best friend. I spent a great deal of time at their house it began to incorporate some of these things you speak of into my life. thank you for reminding me of how much joy these people brought me and the fact that I truly miss their daily input in my life.
when we bought an rv and had to go through our four bedroom two bathroom house and get rid of 75% of our stuff was the most freeing feeling I ever felt. It’s like the more stuff we had the more stress I had. I love being a minimalist now. Everything we own we pretty much use on a weekly basis.
Hello from the USA! 👋 Your rice cooking pot is so cute. Much more aesthetically pleasing than a bulky rice cooker. I really enjoyed your video. I like how minimalism is gaining popularity here in the states. Many people here are hyper consumers. Minimalism appears to be much more simple and stress free. I am looking forward to watching more of your videos! Thank you for sharing!
Have you noticed that all fads have a style that requires more buying of things? IKEA, case in point.
Yes, a lot of people in United States are members of those big box stores or you don’t buy just one of something for the whole crate !! That life is not for me
I'm slowly but surely downgrading my things. It always makes my brain feel more free, almost instantly. I don't think I'll ever be a minimalist, realistically, but I love seeing your videos and learning how I can simplify my life
He’s recognized every person and liked every comment. Protect this man at all costs 🥰
I don't think he's in danger.
@@phxrsx 😂😅😂🤣😆 I have to agree with you, it was an odd comment.
As a person who didn't grow up in a chopstick using culture, I love them. I eat plenty of stuff with them, especially when out and about, because they're easy to carry.
I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE your videos! I'm old enough to be your grandma and have always been a maximalist. And super messy. Both my parents were the same. I'll never be like you, but that doesn't mean I'm content with things as they are in my home. Your videos inspire me that just doing a little at a time could make a difference. So happy to have found you and your students are beyond blessed to have you in their lives. Thank you for brightening our lives. Domo arigato/love from Santa Fe, New Mexico. 🙏🏻☮️💚🌼🌶️
I believe in the combination of minimalism, quality, aesthetics, and joy. I’m forever in the process of getting rid of unnecessary stuff. I’m so happy when the stuff around me gives me joy. I’m always learning new things and keeping an eye out for good ideas. Like right now, there’s nothing I want or need that I don’t already have. And when I go on vacation, I know that most souvenirs are junk & take up invaluable space. Better to just take pictures and videos to remember the moment. Always looking for something that I really want.
ah. I've been enjoying following you. Yet now we have reached an impasse. I have books everywhere in my home. All 3 floors. In every room. Several shelves but many just on reading chairs, counters or side tables. You suggest sitting down to read as a distraction from working? Not at all. There is great knowledge and peace of mind to be found in a conversation with a great author. One idea might spark a new way to improve something in your business or life, and then was the time wasted? I will continue to watch your excellent videos but following each to his own principle.
Thank you for watching my videos and giving me your great comments!! I hope my principles help you even a little🙏
While i agree books are wonderful. I think having less is wonderful. With a large number of books you may never read or perhaps reread they can become a source of guilt. I also used to have a ton of books. But i narrowed it down to maybe 20 i REALLY wanted to read. And have been working on getting through those. I now listen to mostly audiobooks and once my few physical are finished i can enjoy browsing libraries again
I think both can be minimalists in your own way. For me minimalism is about intention. If you read the books you have regularly, or enjoy their presence that can be enough. However, less books is not always a bad thing either.
Same. When you see books, the ideas and minds behind them as a "distraction", I wish you well with your priorities. It's not what I can accept as a well lived life.
Minimalism is about what makes YOU happy and fulfilled. If owning 1000 books makes you happy you can still be a minimalist
I’ve never thought of becoming a minimalist. That is, until I stumbled upon some of your videos. It’s got me thinking about the stuff I own and how much I really need all of it. I am now starting to think about the first things I’m going to sell/donate/throw away. I’m also thinking about the stuff that I won’t buy, which isn’t very many items yet, but it’s a start. I don’t think I’ll become an extreme minimalist since there are still a lot of things that I’m not ready to let go of quite yet, but everyone starts somewhere. I want to thank you for showing me that I don’t need to have a lot of stuff to be happy.
1. Book shelve 2. Forks 3. Mats/rugs 4. couch 5. Fabric softener 6. Paper towels 7. Music speakers 8. Rice cooker 9. Vacuum sweeper 10. Laundry bag i agree with 3,5,6,7,8,9,10. dont like to much machines, a good floor can be clean like you did. and eco sustainability is what i like. 1its good to have less stuff but i prefer a book shelve, for some books and decoration stuff, 2forks only some can be no match, great video!
One thing to note is that A clay pot absorbs a lot, so if you cook it over gas then it will absorb the gas. Which is technically not good for your health So it’s better to use traditional type of cooking, like using firewood while using a clay pot
Great video! I am also a minimalist, but i own all the 10 things mentioned. It’s amazing to see how minimalism works perfect in different ways for different people.
Thanks!!!
@@SamuraiMatcha what material are those flooring?
For real, many people wrote about things they could never get rid of, or that they love too much, but I've always understood minimalism as owning only something that actually has a purpose or is truly useful. For example, I own three little lamps, that make me happy and actually are kind of a comfort thing for bad/long days, and they're only three, I know I don't need more, so it's ok, it's a lamp, it's a comfort/soothing technique, and it's a decoration
im moving out from my parent's house into my own 2 bedroom apartment here in Australia, and i look forward to taking on a minimalist approach to living. Quality over quantity is my philosophy
im extrem minimalist for 2 year... its crazy fun. focus for what is important, super cquick easy cleaning, less expense.. i specialy love the focus elsewhere, on passions, and health
Update, it's been a month since I moved in and I love this life style. I have few things but they provide the comfort, and partiality of my living space. Fewer things means less clean up and it's so much easier for me to find objects which go missing. I also just love the overall space and asthetic.
As an Asian my heart felt into my trousers when he said to get rid of the rice cooker! Well, I can try the clay pot method, but having a maschine cook automatically is a real time saver and you don't need to supervise it all the time.
I also saw someone warn that clay pots can have lead in them. So if you even consider it, be careful with which one you choose and not take chances if you cant find out
Thank you. I always tell my friends and family I am the happiest person in the world! I realized if my basic needs are met - food, clothing, shelter, and love, the rest is just noise. 😊
I respect the people for whom this works. If I tried to be this minimalist my friends and family would have nowhere to sit and nothing to eat on. Getting rid of paper towel is pretty easy though, I got rid of a bunch of old shirts at the same time and turned them into rags that I use for everything I used to use paper towel for
The trick is to have no friends and dislike your family
I use small white, very cheap towels (washcloths) for cleaning, dusting and as kitchen hand drying towels. Then, they don't just make a huge frayed mess in my washer/dryer.
@@dustinreynolds1552 I just saw this ahahahaha I'm sure if this is your lifestyle you find work arounds that include a community LOL
i got rid of everthin but bed computer chair. and fridge stove to keep food cold and cook them. yep no where to sit cna be boring, specialy for bathroom
Haha yes although I believe in Japan it is generally less common to entertain at home, and instead meet in public places like a restaurant, cafe, etc.
You’ve really inspired me to reduce the stuff i have in my apartment. I felt overwhelmed with all the clutter and the algorithm sent me one of your videos at the perfect time! Thank you!
I don't use fabric softener since over 2 years now - instead just use vinegar. It helps get out the chalk of the laundry and keeping it soft too and is no harm to your skin.
My guy... Your house is the most perfect example of an indoor living space I have ever seen! I think you've inspired me to make a change in my own living arrangements! Thank you for sharing with us 😊🙏🏻❤️
Interesting. Having a mat at the entrance door can trap most of the dirt coming into your house. In Canada, while we take off our shoes at the door, we still have to enter in our shoes or winter boots, if it’s too cold outside. And I have a dog, so a vacuum is essential. It’s interesting to see what each person would choose as items they can’t live without!
Yeah, usually I use bath mats and kitchen rugs to avoid slipping
Yeah, that's true! I lived in Canada, so I feel you. That means mat and vacuum is essential for you;-D
@@kawaiidere1023 Bath mats and rugs have been known to cause falls. Especially if they don't have a rubber backing. I only have a few small ones. I gave up on rugs with dogs. No more rugs over 30.00.
I've given them 1/2 tsp peanut oil from WF, and the fur is maybe 15-20% less. 1 lab and 1 Staffie.
Also in Toronto I can't go out and make a campfire for rice, so please, I will stick to my rice cooker, coffee machine, microwave, stove and oven ...
I dont even want to become a minimalist but your vids are so calming that I really enjoy them.
Thank you so much!!
I live in a reallyyy small apartment with 4 other people (my room also being the smallest out of everyone's) and it's already cluttered with everyone's stuff so now I'm trying to learn how to live with minimal daily items. Not complaining, it's actually be really interesting to adapt to
I recently starred being minimalist. From life, food and training. Life is so simplified. Great content and Love this video.
I may be young but my mind is well beyond my years. I started watching you about 2 months ago and since then i've learned many tips as well. My room used to be a huge mess, almost a rat pile, but now, it's simple, just my bed, a night stand and a bookshelf where i put all my religious things! I just wanted to say thank you, for giving me the motivation to minimalize and clean up.
Thank you for your great comment! and Thank you too;_D
Very inspiring! Even if people cannot do 100% as you do (people with kids for instance), one can always implement some of these tips in their lives. Thank you!
I hope this video helps you even a little;-D
Thank you so much!!
I'm an extreme minimalist with a kid. It's super easy once you take that first implactful jump.
@@SamMiche Which jump would that be ?
@@itsmeGeorgina to minimalism. It was hard at first w a kid bc little ones especially need to keep busy.. but my kids 4 and since he was roughly a year old I've had only two small.boxes worth of toys. Clothes are setup in 4s each.. it's a method now. But that jump into fallout minimalism w kids is way easier than we think. It's about consistency rly... stuff comes in an out all the time but the amount is small
I appreciate this so much. As an artist, I absolutely need more than the minimum because I need supplies on hand. However, maintaining the minimalist mindset, I can keep my supplies organized and plan my art series more efficiently. Thank you. ❤
Amazing how you live with so little. I've been decluttering for a couple of years. It makes my life easier and healthier as I have allergies. I'm not a minimalist but I cut my possessions by about 50%. I still think I can do with less and plan to continue my quest for a simpler life. My family and friends think I'm crazy because my possessions are beautiful and in great condition. Just don't want to maintain stuff anymore.
This spoke to me. I have severe anxiety and mood swings based off of the environment I exist in. Example, if my house is a mess, I cannot relax and must clean and organize in order to feel any level of comfort. At the same time, I have depression, among other mental health disorders that inhibit my drive to keep as tidy of a space as I prefer at times. I am also a single mother of 2 children (who are very creative and imaginative and not so tidy). I own a lot of things that quite frankly, I do not really need, but that I keep for one reason or another. My house is never dirty or messy according to most standards, but this may be a solution for me. Especially the boxes for books....because I have stacks of journals, my Bible study materials, my fictional books and multiple books I keep for general education and interest purposes. I also own many board games, puzzles and artistic materials that would be much better stored inside of a tote of some sort in order to clean up my space. I have many things that can go, and this helped me find a comfortable solution to help me find visual comfort in my home. Thank you very much. Your space looks wonderful and comfortable. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
@ Erika Monihen : You may not have mental issues. You may just be suffering because you're human. You're doing the best you can possibly do. When you're ready you'll easily despatch excess possessions. Simple is best, but i, like you, found solace in things, as i lost people i love. On pretty much every episode of Hoarders, the person had suffered a bereavement, often in a traumatic way. Bereavement itself is a trauma. We are all trying to replace the people we lost with things. Usually there is also a history of being spoken to & treated quite unhelpfully by those who are supposed to care. It is not easy to be a single parent. Wishing you strength & courage to tackle the demands of your life.
I feel all that you said and that is why I became a minimalist.💜
Same! When I discovered my anxiety is fueled by the amount of crap I have - out it (nearly) all went! I do have a family - so I can only 'inspire' them. But for my own possesions - I can leave with one large suitcase and have everything I need or want!
...as tidy a space*... You have *a space.* You don't have "of" a space 😁👍👍
Gosh, I wish I had your problem sometimes in not being able to relax with clutter around you. I can take a nap and relax, and eat with all kinds of clutter around me! I’m trying to change … have given away a lot of things and recycled and trashed … but still have a way to go.
I will never manage your level of minimalism, but you inspire me as I dejunk, transforming from a pack rat into a tidy butterfly. Thank you for being such a good teacher. Merry Christmas, Ake!
Thank Susan!! I'm doing my best;-D
His level of minimalism is impractical and ridiculous. I doubt it would be desirable for you even if it works for him.
Hi Aki, your videos are just what I needed. I love your positive attitude and the way you implement your minimalistic lifestyle. It is really inspiring, thank you. :)
When I was growing up we cooked rice on the stove or even on a open fire, but with work and raising children the rice cooker came in handy. Just press and go and Don't throw out your rice water it's good for your plants,cleaning outside and soak your feet. It helps to soften your skin making it easier to wash.Aloha from Honolulu, Hawaii byways of Waikiki
I’m always looking for inspiring ways to cut back on items that I don’t really need but always have just assumed I needed. Great video and even though these points are very applicable to your own lifestyle it’s made me consider how I live and what changes I can make 🌱
I enjoy your videos. I’m a minimalist from the United States. I’m striving toward a very minimalist life like this. I recently got myself a tatami mat and futon to sleep on instead of a bed. I LOVE it. My back feels lots better. Now I want to try out a clay pot like that for rice. I don’t use a dryer anymore either as mine broke and I have been saving so much money on my electric bill that i have decided not to replace it and just to keep using my drying racks. I’m slowly getting there.
Awesome! Where did you find the tatami and futon mattress? I’ve been looking here but I can’t get the one he has here sent from Japan because it’s Japanese Amazon.
@@Lotusblume.8 I got mine on our U.S. Amazon, it’s the brand Fuli Japan. Both the tatami and futon are made in Japan. They were kind of pricey but I wanted made in Japan.
@@zoeycat2646 Thank you💕!
👍👍👍👍👍👍👍
;-D
This laundry bag idea is going to solve a huge frustration point for me. I'm making that change today! Thank you for sharing it. I appreciate you!
I’m always watching your videos and really enjoy them. They do give the incentive to declutter more. I will never become a real minimalist but I do have to declutter more. So many of your ideas are inspirational. Thank you. And this is my third time of listening to this particular video. 😊
reading from a book rather than a tablet, actually affects your brain very, very differently. in fact, many people during the pandemic had to "retrain" their brains how to read. it's a skill that is not "innate" to our species. and I have 2 vacuums because I have 3 dogs. but I love your life-style and understand why you are giving these tips. there's something for everyone.
Smooth, organized, simple and straight to the point. Lovely video! I'm kinda in between maximalist and minimalist and would like to tidy up my life a bit so I can have less stuff I don't need and more time for myself. I guess my main goal is to only keep what I need in my life which tends to make me a bit happier. Thank you for the ideas in the video, would like to try them out one day :)
I wasn't expecting the books tip. I feel like reading books isn't a distraction but a valuable way to spend your time. I just unplugged and moved my TV (massive distraction) and have put some books in its place so that I can spend more time looking at a page and less time at a screen!
the books are the important thing and the rest of stuffs are the distraction
To each their own. This guy has an ukulele, which can be very distracting. Minimalism is about your needs and to be honest with them
I've been enjoying your aspirational video's that help us all imagine a life w/ less no matter where we we are on the spectrum of orderliness/minimalism. Your non-preachy, upbeat attitude invites us all to re-consider a life with less stuff and perhaps more quality Thanks~
All my life, I've lived inside a pretty maximalist kind of home and it kinda exhausted me as I spent more and more time cleaning, fixing, and taking care of things. I dream of the day when I can have my own house and I plan to live minimally. I feel like this suits my personality the most hehe
I love this! I myself is also a minimalist. I find it more clean , less clutter and I do have less responsibility
I gave up my recliner chair 6 months ago and use 2 yoga mats instead and lay down or stand only. Its made my back so much better
I was looking for a way were I can store my books without buying a Bookshelf, thank you so much for the advice, I found those boxes very useful and it's convenient that when you open them you can see all the book's names.
Love Japanese style! I like sitting on the floor, using a folded blanket, and my laptop sits on a little platform on wheels. The less furniture, the better - I hate cleaning around stuff, and I also keep the books in totes, so they don't get dusty. Good laundry idea - will try that.
I'm definitely NOT a minimalist. But I went through what I had with a mind toward "if I had to move today, what would I absolutely want and what would I sell"? It showed me what was really important to me, and what was something I liked but could live without. If something works for you, keep it, and work with your idea of minimalism. Personally, I couldn't live like this; it's too austere.
I'd like to live like a very nice IKEA display. Lol. I hate those built-ins in old houses (they stick CONSTANTLY), but I LOVE my 90s waterbed with drawers underneath. Never given me any problem in 30+ years. There's 0 hardware, they just slide. Nothing to break. :)) The bottoms are MDF, which doesn't expand and contract like wood, and there's a whole science to drying it correctly so it doesn't warp. You should see how involved pool cues and drumsticks are. Lol
I am also a cozy gatherer. It’s how I gather my family and beautify my surroundings. When I return to my home, it makes me smile. It is my ikigai! That being said, minimalism fascinates me and I admire the challenge to keep life simple. I really enjoy your channel. I especially love your 13 ways to be humble, grateful and happy and am making plans to incorporate them!
This is the life I want for myself, it makes me feel inner peace just by watching these videos ^_^
The video was even done in a minimal way. Felt no need to skip through unwanted info. Thank you so much. I love your living style and appreciate the tips
If He dont own all that stuff then how is it in the video?
Lol if I had to guess he either borrowed things or used some old footage. Good question though lol
@@yourfavoritejaz5544 I suspect this is actually all just for KZhead and He has one room where He is minimalism and then a normal house or home We dont see. You ask why? Well 50k to 80k in add revenue might be the reason. Lots of money to be made and why if He isnt going to buy anything? You see it dont add up plus He ignores My points.
Why do you care so much?? Lol
I am a minimalist and I love it when things around are neat and simple--pleasing to the eye. But then with my kids, I can't prevent being disorganized at times. I mean it's not me who made the mess lol. But I'm teaching them to purchase and consume what they only need, and also to return the things they get on the same spot. And about letting go of some stuff, there are times that I can't let go of some items. But after some time when I'll declutter again, I would realize that I can already let go of it. I would say minimalism is a habit and it takes time. So don't be stressed. ☺️
I completely agree with everything you say! I am a minimalist myself and only keep what's necessary in my house. It's so much easier to clean and it doesn't feel like a cluster.
Dig a lot of your stuff and agree on open space. But nope, not getting rid of my hobbies -spinning wheels, looms, wool, home and yard tools, beautiful art. Much to be said for having a kura or an attic.
Yeah you can possess and get rid of anything you want😉
I'm no minimalist, but I like watching your videos for a minimalist and Japanese perspective on life. I recently bought a cast iron dutch oven (like that iron pot) and I could probably use it in my oven and make good rice with it. I hadn't thought of that before! I'm sure over a fire would be better, though, haha.
I definitely could not be a minimalist, and, being in a rented apartment, am not able to do things like removed the carpets, even though I would like to. I am working to reduce the clutter and organize my home. I am someone who enjoys seeing items such as nick-nacks, posters and color in the form of decorations. I have accepted and embraced this, and am working on my home bearing this in mind. I agree with a previous comment stating that seeing someone happy in a well functioning home is very inspiring and enjoyable. I very much like your videos as they are a small window into a how others around the world live. Seeing how others live, I can find new things that may even help me, such as the fabric softener recipe. This is definitely something I am taking away and plan on using it as soon as i run out of my store bought product. Thank you for sharing how you live!
I really enjoyed this video. Thank you for taking the time to make it x
Very enjoyable to watch. Your peacefulness is able to come through the video, that's a great gift for others too. I like using a pot for rice, I boil it for only a few minutes to heat through and then wrap it in two towels and leave it to cook off the stove for an hour or so, it cooks with much less energy than previously. I enjoy going away and doing other things and knowing it's just sitting there cooking all on its own inside the towels. I also enjoy how you use beautiful cloth items that are traditionally Japanese, and your culture has really explored how to use these in so many ways, always a pleasure to watch you using these. Thank you for bringing peace and happiness to others through living in your peaceful minimalist way.
Thank you soooo much for your great comments!! I’m so happy to hear that;-) I’ll try to be more peaceful and share my life style to you all.
This was so cool, thank you for sharing! In the states, you are expected to have a lot of things in your house. While I wouldn't call myself a minimalist, I like to avoid over consumption and avoid waste - I will remember these tips when I move into my future home!
These suggestions are really good ! I’m on the search for convertible furniture, not yet willing to give up my furniture. Love your content !
Hello! I discovered your channel today. I don't speak English but I watch your videos anyway and try to understand. Minimalism in my life made me enjoy more time with my family and connect more with them along with buddhism. I love your channel, congratulations! 😊
Arigato! Konnichi Wa! I've just had a recommendation for your channel as a Japan culture enthusiast, and it's delightful, your video is very relaxing, simple and has a meditative zen quality, and I plan to watch many more. I'm not a minimalist, and simply couldn't do without a plush bed and armchair or sofa, but I streamline, decluttering regularly, and don't have books at all, reading everything on my tablet. I don't like dust, junk and loads of boxes and stuff. I think a cluttered home for me causes claustrophobia and stress. I make my own beauty products sometimes and add essential oil to my laundry (I use soap nuts, which are 100% natural to wash clothes in and thoroughly recommend trying them). You have something of the silent film actor about you and your movements, it would be marvellous to see you in a remake of a silent film or if you made one. I love the laundry bag idea, that is genius and I'll pinch that from you lol. So much less bother.
I loved your fabric softener... Seriously I have been having allergies but I didn't know why.. Your video helped me to realize the reason. Thank you brother.. Love from India 🙏🙏
I love the idea of using citric acid and essential oils to replace fabric softener. I don't buy fabric softener and haven't used it in YEARS, but I will certainly have to try this tip. Thank you!
I have gone increasingly minimalist and it has all the benefits I read about. You have taken it further than most and further than I currently can or strive for but it is very refreshing to see. Also I like your face! You look happy and healthy.
I like reading manga and some book so since i started to became more minimalist i started going to a local library rather than buying i start borrowing it and some that not available i just check it and buy it on some app Now i started let go lots of stuff since i watch ur videos 😊😊
The more i let go some stuff the more relax and refresh i feel ...
Great;-D I'm happy to hear that! Le't have a simple life together!
I love your sense of humor, your energy and your tips! Thank you very much for sharing.
thanks!!
I just love your joy and energy. It's wild to think you can affect people across the world through a computer screen ! WoW! Thank you much
I'm about to move out so I'm realising this is the perfect time to embrace my minimalism side. this is great inspo
I do the same thing with the laundry mini net. Gets rid of the extra step. I've even just started throwing in the clothes directly into the machine now too lol
You are an OG minimalist lol. I love how clean and fresh you live. 2 things I like is books and music. Tomorrow I am getting rid of stuff so I am so relieved. Too much stuff does not equal happiness. My mom is a hoarder and got worse. It made me have anxiety when things clutter or get dirty. I've been told that I'm clean and I am but I feel clutter is a little bit of my problem. You're right about book shelf though. I have a built in shelf in my apartment but also 2 small ones and it just looks terrible to me. I'd rather put a picture or plant in some of the space not books covering it. I'm still learning how to be a minimalist.
Take the covers off the HC copies you want to keep. Much like Ikea, they make nice little stacks when some thought is used. They also look good on speakers. Like 3-4 in similar color pitches. Dusky blue. Sage green. Muted yellow. Maybe. Just read them. Write the date you last read/handled it and that'll tell you (pencil)
I’m in the Northern Hemisphere and have started out on my minimalist journey and enjoyed your video. I have now adopted 4 of your suggestions. 😀👍
This is really helpful. I recently moved into a small space bc i like the way it feels, and i already removed a lot of these things from my daily life. The rest on the list give me a lot of new inspirations haha! I'm not sure if i will not use a rug bc i really like the way it feels on my feet, but it indeed collects hair easily. The other half of my room is tatami so maybe i'll eventually turning the whole floor into tatami in the future when i get tired of carpet. Right now i'm thinking about what else i don't need so i can save space and most importantly, remove distractions lolll!!
Thank you for showing us a path to make life more simple while blending in the Japanese culture. With a new video comes a new item( sarashi towel), I never knew toilet paper could have substitutes, that was really surprising. Thanks for sharing
Toilet paper could be nice;-D Thank you for telling me.
I've been bingewatching your minimalist videos now and you've inspired me to rethink my lifestyle and reduce the things I own!! I know that personally I could benefit from it because I struggle with keeping my spaces tidy since I own so many things and don't know where to store them! Though I also wonder if it would be cultural appropriation to use chopsticks or tatami mats on a daily basis as a non-Asian...
absolutely not!!!! Using Japanese tools or wearing Japanese items is not cultural appropriation as long as you don't make fun of or mock these items or Japanese practices!!! Best of luck to you and your minimalist journey C:
I like your energy 🙏🏼 I’m trying to reduce stuff and also make my life easier for many years…it’s quite different with family and my 5yo son, I don’t feel to be really minimalist as you but it’s definitely possible to make life much easier and more beautiful… for environment and for people much more sustainable 🙏🏼 I really like Japanese style… for many years we don’t have bed but futons on wooden floor, etc. thank you for sharing and inspiring… and my realization: when I’m not happy in my life I’m buying stuff/ so when I’m happy I have that feeling “I don’t actually need anything”
Hey! The practices that you follow are very similar in my South Indian household. We have gotten rid o f many things that you mention and from getting rid of forks (now eating with hands traditionally) to cooking food in clay pots, I can't believe there are so many similarities!
Very true about the bookshelves part. I hide all my books in boxes too but I place them back on the shelves coz there's nowhere else to put them in my small space. At least they don't get dusty and I don't get distracted anymore. So my bookshelves now look like a collection of boxes. Lol
I love eating chips with chopsticks! Keeps my hand clean, love it. Love the aesthetics of your room, so calming to watch :)
Thanks always;-D Oh, you use them? That's great!!
What I don't like about minimalism is that, in many cases, it requires more thought, planning, and - ultimately - worry to practice it then to just follow the path of least resistance and accrue things like everybody else does. Plus, when you find yourself in the situation where you require something you didn't plan for, it's suddenly a huge problem. For example: a guest comes over, and you don't have a couch or a comfortable chair, so he's relegated to the uncomofortable wooden stool for several hours.
I lost about 90% of my belongings in the recent flood in Victoria Australia. I was a maximimist before the flood, however having 6x people coming into my house to throw away items I had forgotten about or hardly used really opened my eyes. I was approved for a rental property recently and I've been offered so many things for that house. I've had to apologise to people for not wanting to take on their junk. I will live in this property for approx. 2 years before moving back onto the same block of land but a newly built house. I really just don't want to have too much furniture. I'm interested in getting a king bed and that's pretty much it. (My husband is 6'4 and takes up a bit of space) I may purchase a washing machine down the line but I can't afford it right now. I'm looking forward to having my animals living with me again and not much else.
You are my favourite youtuber! I love your content, and your humour! You have a beautiful room and a great, positive outlook on life. Greetings from England 👋🎄
Thanks Sue-san!
It is rare in our world for people to release professional content saying "things I don't buy" when there is always something to gain by selling things. Thank you.
Fabric softener is bad for the washing machine too I believe! In my house we use lavender oil and a little bit of white vinegar. Once the clothes are dry you don’t smell any vinegar, just the lavender. Much cheaper too! Laundry stuff is so expensive in the US
Yeah, but you have Costco, where you can buy things in pallets. Besides, you're supposed to use less than you'd think. Especially on HE machines that use low water. For a HUGE LG machine I can put all my bedding (sheets and top blanket) and week's clothes into, I use like a quarter cup of liquid detergent. That's all.
I like to keep a lot of my stuff because I worry that I'll need that specific thing one day in the future, but minimalism sounds so tempting
This is all good advice. I live in a very cold place (down to -50F) in a tiny cabin, so I do need rugs and they do accumulate dust and hair. I tried getting rid of them, but my cabin cools down too much. Once I move to a warmer place, I'm definitely not going to use them any more. I also have too many kitchen gadgets, so I am slowly paring them down. Thanks for the video.
People in the rest of the world do not use F. We have no idea how cold that is but it sounds cold