Wise Living by Embracing ‘Less’

Less is more. — The best health regimen doesn't revolve around better sleep or rigorous exercise but instead centers on a single word: 'less.' (Image: via Shutterstock)

The best health regimen doesn’t revolve around better sleep or rigorous exercise but instead centers on a single word: “less.” Since ancient times, people have been searching for the essence of optimal health. Taoism emphasizes that the key to wellness lies not in excess, but in the principle of less.

The Tao Te Ching is the classic Chinese text and the foundational work of Taoism credited to the sage Laozi. In it, Laozi says: “Less yields more, excess leads to confusion.” This implies that rarity holds value in all things; simplicity leads to clarity, as excess often brings trouble. Life operates on this principle.

Having more isn’t necessarily better; sometimes, not having as much is more appropriate. Moderation is the best approach. The power of “less” can make your life more relaxed, comfortable, and of higher quality. In other words, embracing this ancient principle epitomizes wise living.

Fast food meal including a burger, fries, and a beer on a wooden table. — Most ailments stem from excessive consumption or overeating. (Image: Konstantin Malkov via Dreamstime)

Less food, fewer illnesses

Diet is a daily necessity and a focal point of wellness. As the saying goes: “Disease enters through the mouth.” Most ailments stem from excessive consumption or overeating. Long-term indulgence burdens the heart and digestive system, leading to various health issues. Wise individuals prioritize health and a youthful appearance by understanding the principles of dietary wellness. The secret to avoiding illness lies in not eating as much, adhering to regular meal times, and stopping when 70 percent full.

Fewer thoughts, fewer worries

Laozi said: “Less selfishness, fewer desires; abandon learning, have no worries.” Maintaining your inherent simplicity and reducing desires are essential to preserving mental peace. Conversely, indulging desires can lead to worries and anxieties. Many suffer from depression and anxiety because they dwell on the past or worry about the future. Living in the present moment is where true fulfillment lies.

Less blame, less sorrow

A mindset of resentment imprisons the soul. Constant complainers repel their good fortune, leading to a bitter existence. Gratefulness is the key to happiness. The less you complain and embrace gratitude, the more good fortune you’ll attract. Your heart’s capacity for appreciation directly influences your fortune. To lead a successful and fulfilling life, minimize complaints and maximize gratitude.

Two women gossiping. — Laozi advises: ‘Excessive chattering leads to trouble; it is better to keep it in the heart.’ Unrestrained talking invites misfortune. (Image: Aniram via Dreamstime)

Fewer words, fewer misfortunes

Laozi advises: “Excessive chattering leads to trouble; it is better to keep it in the heart.” Unrestrained talking invites misfortune. Speaking less and speaking wisely can keep you away from conflicts. Silence is also a form of wisdom.

The essence of profound wellness lies in the principle of “less.” Less food keeps illnesses at bay, fewer desires ease worries, fewer complaints ward off bitterness, and fewer words prevent misfortunes. This is the true path to wellness.

Translated by Katy Liu

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David Jirard

David was born in the Midwestern section of the U.S. during the turbulent sixties. At an early age he took an interest in music and during high school and college played lead guitar for various local bands. After graduating with a B.A. in Psychology, he left the local music scene to work on a road crew installing fiber optic cable on telephone poles in various cities. After having to climb up a rotted pole surrounded by fencing, he turned to the world of I.T. where he now shares laughter with his wife and tends to his beehives in between writing articles on Chinese culture and social issues.

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