Minimalism Lite: Be your best friend and be happier in Japanese minimalist style

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Minimalism Lite is an easier approach to minimalist ideas.

It suggests tidying up a little at a time in short spurts—not only the material but also the fuzzy things that clutter up our mind and body in today’s fast-paced, connected world of all-at-onceness.

Minimalism Lite shares traditional Japanese concepts that perfectly support minimalist ideas, not to mention recipes for minimalist microwave cooking that can be prepared in minutes.

The concept is not uniquely Japanese, and it has parallels in every culture.
Anyone can enjoy the benefits of the art of simplification.

Minimalism Lite lowers the hurdle for anyone who would like to live with a little less clutter, less stress, and more fun.

Chapter 1:
Simplicity in Traditional Japanese Culture
A world of convenience—and clutter
Minimalism and Danshari:
Can we really part with all our things?
Simplicity in traditional Japanese culture
Everything is transient. Free yourself of excessive attachment
Ichigo-Ichie: Every encounter is unique and special
The simple beauty of tea ceremony
Always wanting more: It never seems to be enough
All things are Mujo--Impermanent
Living in a messy home is like playing a sport without doing your warmup routine
Bad things may happen, but they won’t go on forever
Breathe deeply and relax your muscles.
Now take a calm look at what has—or hasn’t—happened.
If you suddenly have a burning desire to splurge…
A woman who knew how to do without and be happy
Why do you want it?
What if you’re suddenly hit by a huge earthquake?
Setting up a “to-maybe-throw-away-stash”
Decluttering and puttering around in the kitchen
My basic rule: Purchase only items I’ll use in the next few days
Japan isn’t paradise, but it’s in transition

Chapter 2:
Our Desires
The desire to win: The need to outperform others to be the best
The desire to have a nice car
The desire to make money
The desire to climb up the corporate ladder or stand out in the crowd: What is it that we really want?
The desire to not to have to deal with certain people
- Assess and sort through the situation
- See if there is anything that you have in common with them
- Talk to them
- Try to appreciate and accept
The desire to have a fabulous figure
When do you feel truly happy?
A canine perspective on happiness
Give yourself a break. You deserve it.

Chapter 3:
You Deserve to Enjoy Good Meals
We all have to eat. It’s a shame not to enjoy our food
Merging the best of Japan and the west
Less time, less mess, but full of flavor

Chapter 4:
Microwave Recipes that Anyone Can Prepare
Less time, less mess, and still good and healthy
15 Recipes including:
- Chicken Yakitori
- Fluffy Japanese Okonomiyaki pancakes
- Mackerel and spinach in miso sauce
- Salmon and paprika marinade
- Eggplant in sweet soy sauce and sesame seed oil
- Hot tomato with cheese filling, Spicy teriyaki potatoes
- Bacon and bean sprouts in oyster sauce
- Steamed clams and cabbage in garlic butter soy sauce
- Chicken breast with soy sauce and ginger
- Udon noodles with miso-sesame sauce
- Chocolate cake in a mug

Chapter 5: Now Is the Time to Act
Quick checklist before starting a Minimalism