Extreme minimalist challenge: 1 item per day for 30 days
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- čas přidán 29. 08. 2024
- ABOUT THIS VIDEO:
Hi, I'm Aki, a school teacher living in a small village in Japan.
Recently, I started an experiment to become a real extreme minimalist.
This challenge was inspired by the movie, My stuff.
The man in this movie put all his belongings in a storage unit.
He took one item out each day for a whole year.
I will be doing this challenge for 30 days.
MY STUFF | Trailer deutsch german [HD]
→ • MY STUFF | Trailer deu...
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.
WHAT I LIKE:
Minimal lifetyle
Kimono
Chado(The way of making tea)
Anime(Ghibli)
Japanese food
RROSUCTS:
Many people asked me about my products, so I put the links below.
I tried to find them on amazon in the USA, but it's hard to find.
I only could find these.
・Snow Peak sleeping bag(BD103) amzn.to/3FGEObb
BD103 =Temperature Rating 5℃
Mine is BD104 =Temperature Rating 3℃
・GOKUMIN mattress
Sorry I can't find it... instead of that, this looks nice!
amzn.to/3ftkgHB
GOKUMIN mattress on Japanese amazon
→amzn.to/3dHmQIT
CONNECT WITH ME:
BLOG samuraijourney...
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...
NO ONE IS COMMENTING ON HOW COOL IT WOULD BE TO BE HIS STUDENT LIKE THEY PICKED BLUEBERRIES, MADE CHOPSTICKS, ATE COOL NOODLES, HAUNTED HOUSE. LIKE WHATTTT
Thanks;-)
So true! Where do you find your ideas? I do the same job but i often have no good ideas
@@mathildeseiferlein4538 maybe ask your kids? Or do a few of these from the video.
He seem like he'd be an awesome teacher 👍😊
All that stuff... homeless people do every day. Not impressive.
This guy does more fun stuff in a week than I do all year
Thought the same…😅
i think im turnin Japanese i really think so
😂 SAME
He's not distracted by junk and unimportant activities.
@@13c11aVG poo
"Each day, when I get one more item, the happiness increases." I think the challenge/art of minimalism is recognizing, when the increase of happiness stops/decreases and stopping to accumulate belongings at that point. Very interesting content!
Great thought!
Agreed! It’s very interesting
Sometimes, you aren't getting more 'stuff' to make yourself happier but to make life easier.
Is it really the level of happiness which increases/decreases?
Like if I choose my 30 things and you choose your 30 things, and then we swap all of them at once.
Would your level of happiness increase/decrease with my chosen things which now is yours?
Could a person be happy/content by allowing someone else choosing the things ? W/o interfering.
I learned to be a minimalist through poverty. You really don't need much to be happy.
for me, i’m a minimalist because my parents are divorced so I only can have a duffel bag of stuff to take to each house and that’s all. So i’ve gotten very good at choosing what I need
Brilliant!
@@crypticshadows some how i relate to you. I have been a boarding school student and needed to pack alot. I don't get why my peers at that time have so many things, just to have another round of headache like what to give away and how to stuff them all in a suit case.
And now i have developed this mentality, I just don't want to have much things. I always think what if i decide or need to move again.
Chris Redfield - and yet, poverty can trigger hoarding 😔 A scarcity mentality that equates material items with a (false) sense of security. I strive to break inter generational patterns . . .
Great comment! Hope you’re doing okay.
Finally saw a video about a guy who can live happily by being a school teacher in a small village. Love it!
I am working towards a minimalist goal, but I am doing it differently. Every day I put out 3 things and choose 1 to keep and 2 to give away. It's a slow process but its working. Sometimes I decide to give away all 3. I've cleaned out 3 closets this way.👍
That is a good method! I"ll try that someday;-D Thank you for telling me.
Thank you. You inspired me to do the next step to minimalism.
That’s a good idea!
Does it still work after one month? Thanks for sharing :D
Nice! My goal is to fit everything my kid and I own in two Suitcases and Backpacks. His toy truck doesn't fit, but aside from that, hammocks included I think we'll be fine - or close to it rn
As a dressmaker it is always fascinating to me, how important clothes really are. Even an extreme minimalist would chose an item of clothing as his first item (not counting a roof over the head, drinking water and food). And yet so many people seem to think, this line of work was worth almost nothing - neither money nor respect.
❤
Your essential!
Anyone who has studied survival knows the most important thing is shelter and that clothing is the most versatile form of shelter. The reason for that is that extreme weather, be it hot or cold will kill a human long before the need of water or food. You should not allow peoples ignorance to effect your self respect and instead take comfort in knowing how important clothing is to the very survival of man. Happy New Year.
Its because of high amounts of supply: for the random first world citizen drinking water seems pretty much a cheap abusable given.
Now I can tell Clothes are really important😊👍Yes!!!
Clicked this video to see how the challenge went but I became way too focused on the curriculum at the place you’re teaching. So many cool and fun activities in 30 days only, what a dream school 🥺
This is kind of a summer vocation school;-D
I thought the same thing lol. Made me a little sad my school was so boring.
Over my 20 years going to school i only had 2 outside activities
Daiso has new
Yeah I'd also enjoy such a school
More time spent in nature is great
I used to be homeless, living on the street. So for me, the minimalist lifestyle is just a reminder of what I went through: *cold, dirty, and starving.*
I vowed never to live that way again, but I also now know what's truly important in life.
What?
This was extreme, but I think essentials things used for hygiene should be present at all times. Detergent and soap should've been available during the first day like the samurai underwear. Anyways, damn didn't knew I would enjoy this video so much. GREAT CONTENT!!!
Definitely
Those items don’t count imo, everyone needs them no matter how minimalist
It’s kind of like food, a necessity
I was wondering why this video felt so quiet and relaxing, and then I realized... There's no music or sound effects!
Yessss! That’s it!
I often find people’s choices of music and ambient sound in videos really annoying - it often distracts from the listening experience.
@@alexispillay79 Exactly !
I strongly dislike channels with music and/or too much background noise. 😚
My dream is to live like him. It goes slowly but I am on right way. A kimono is a fantastic garment and only necessary items fanrastic too.🙏🏻🌸
Or the music they choose is too emotionally evocative and I don't want to feel intense emotion that doesn't match the intensity of the video content.
I had a "maximumalist" lifestyle with a cushy job and everything. Then mum got diagnosed with a terminal illness. I would travel each weekend to be with her, and slept under her bed. Sleeping bag, toothbrush, cellphone & charger, pen+notepad, 3 grey t-shirts, 3 shirts, 2 pairs of jeans, some girl things, and plastic money. That was all I needed. And when mum passed away in 2017, when nothing made any sense, I gave up most of my material possessions, lived in 5 countries since then. I definitely still enjoy the feel of silk against my skin, but do I care? No. I am happy in cotton. Now my principle of things I own: 1) Is it ABSOLUTELY necessary? 2) Can it do 2-3 jobs? 3) Does it hold any sentimental value. I have stopped buying clothes/shoes/make-up/books/etc. Life is simpler with more room for what I hold dear to me, leaving me time to find beauty. my goal is that when I die, my things can be wrapped up in one garbage bag.
Thanks you for telling me about your story! That's so inspiring!
Yeah. I feel You!
I liked reading about your experience. Thank you for sharing.
@@janmccann8081 You are welcome Jan. And happy new year. :-)
❤️❤️❤️
this is actually really interesting. there's many non essential items that i would be completely miserable without. my guitars, my hoodies, my art supplies, etc. i'm honestly not surprised you did so well at this challenge. you don't need much to be happy, because your life is full of richness, experiences and joy on its own. that's pretty amazing, if you ask me.
If you're miserable without them, are they really non-essential?
@@thatthieff non-essential for survival, but needed for a comfortable life in modern standards I suppose
@@thatthieff I agree with you
Thank you for your great comments;-)
Agreed. I tried minimalism but I can’t do it.
Honestly I was super surprised you waited 6 whole days to get the mattress! For me that would’ve been day two most likely. Amazing video, I’m so glad I got this in my recommended. I will look at some of your other videos too, because I’m interested in the Japanese culture and minimalistic values that you talked about here.
I'd go naked for a day as long as I had my mattress, hahaha
I used to sleep on the floor so it’s not a big deal for me.
Same for me.
I had to go through something similar. I hiked the Pacific Crest Trail last year. I committed to keep my pack weight less than 10 pounds (not including food and water). I did that but came close 3 times with hypothermia. It's was a good lesson. You only need a little water when thirsty, a little food when hungry, clothes to stay warm and some shelter to get out of the rain. I enjoyed the video, thanks
Tks for sharing. It’s very inspiring. 🙏🏻
This guy is unstoppable. People might do this challenge maybe, but only he would do it on a thirty days that are very busy. He had so many plans and tags to do and easily could’ve chosen an empty scheduled thirty days. I respect you
I would do this but I don’t have the balls, give me guidance samurai
Cs he knows this will boost his creativity and that it's a gain... besides doing such things helps you reduce to 0% or cut away any waste :)) and as someone said în another comment here it helps the one whos doing it be aware of the things he actually does need & the ones who aren't as useful or sth like this
Hmmmm, I'm going in the complete opposite direction. I've grown up homeless without alot and I'm going through a practice to show gratitude for everything I own while working towards the items I want, I really do love all thr items I have and I am contented but I also am working towards a future with more resources I'm grateful to you for making this and I'm happy we live in a world full of so much diversity and understanding.
Thanks you for telling me your story. That's inspiring. I hope you enjoy watching my videos;-D
@@SamuraiMatcha arigato gozaimasu
I love your perspective. I had not considered situations such as what you've been through and what that might mean. 🌹
@@lolgriffin3243 it is my goal to live life to the fullness that I can. Most people are unsatisfied but this isnt where I'm at, I'm contented with what I have but I still strive to do better. *:D*
I agree, I 've almost been homeless; notice most people who think minimalism is good, have the money to buy/ replace items Thank you for alternative attitude.
This is one way to see how someone in poverty would live. A way to be humble and thankful for things
Yeah that’s true. We have to be thankful for things.
Ironically it's really expensive to be truly minimalist. The price of certain things that last and have multiple functions tend to be really expensive
@@Vlad2319 Some of them are expensive. Yes.
@@Vlad2319 That's very true, I find that with certain items I'm able to save money in the longterm, such as shoes. For example I only have one pair of shoes at the moment that was 115 dollars but have lasted me three years straight, instead of having to buy multiple pairs of shoes over time that would also just hurt my feet and be more expensive in the longterm.
@@Daniel-dl6cu that's how it being "too expensive" creates a cycle of being stuck in poverty. you can't afford the nicer thing that will last longer, so you have to get the crappier version and later replace it. it's a vicious cycle.
He is a master of discipline, creativity, and intentional living.
The right mindset.
The right teacher to reduce consumption.
The right teacher to appreciate life.
The right idea for architecture.
Thank you so much for this lesson.
I love how the people in Japan are always so kind, they give you food, they thank you for helping them with food, etc. That would be one of the main reasons why I'd want to live in japan.
I think that in addition to exploring extreme minimalism, you are probably also exploring the evolution of civilization. The items that humans developed were based upon our needs. We developed clothes to protect us from cold, tools to prepare food so that we cold eat better, etc. I wonder if you are sharing this experience with your students and what other people think that you would choose next or what they think that they would choose.
I retired and sold my house to live in a 6 meter RV. I had to get rid of so many things, mostly inherited from family but many things of mine as well. I took photos of the things that meant something to me and that made it much easier to part with them. I also tried to find a good home for the more special things.
The RV limited the total weight of my things to 200kg
Wow!! That’s wonderful!! I also wanna live RV. You must have to get rid of many things.
Very proud of you. Living homeless, I've learned to use less and be grateful, and I've carried those lessons with me and encourage others to simplify and prioritize
Great! All the best to you.. fine advice🤗
Materialism and minimalism goes hand in hand. This video is a great exercise at showing the extremes. It made me look at my own wardrobe and "stuff". At the end of the day, I need to find my own balance that works for my life.
I've recently downsized my wardrobe because I found I was always wearing the same 2 pairs of pants to work (I work shift work so I only ever work 3 days in a row at the most then get 2 off) and I tend to wear my sweaters for several days before washing because I wear a t-shirt under it. But I go thru 2 pairs of socks a day so I have alot of those. But I got rid of most of my pants, and many fancy tops I don't really wear anymore. A person only needs a few sets of clothes, I just do smaller loads of laundry more often, and then they actually get folded and put away. I don't have a big basket overflowing with clothes. I don't care if ppl at work see me in the same pants every shift, I work in a factory and there's no point in worrying about what I'm wearing.
I'm NOT a minimalist.. not QUITE a hoarder, but there are sentimental items that I dont NEED, but like to gave around me. Well done you. It was a fascinating post that kept me glued to my (necessary) screen. You did a great job. I dont think I could do it as I am housebound and enjoy a bit of clutter ( books and mementos) at my age ! It's so interesting to see how other people live.! You are an active, healthy man, and I applaud you!
Thank you for your telling me your life style! I'm so glad to hear that! I'll keep doing my best!
This was super fun. I love that you highlighted Japanese artisan goods and wood crafted items, I love those.
I’m gonna introduce there kind of Japanese goods!! Looking forward to it!!
@@SamuraiMatcha Great! I am very interested in your idea.
@@maroulio2067 Thanks!!
I grew up in a family of hoarders, although our house wasn’t so messy, there were a lot of things we didn't need but we still bought. 2 years ago I decided to live a simpler life just because of this, but I definitely and definitely can't do without personal care products. There are a handful of skin care items and some everyday things that I can't give up due to my skin condition and chronic back pain, so this includes toothbrush and toothpaste, or my lovely pillow and mattress but other than that, I don't need for example too many shoes or bags.
Thank you so much for this channel. I was laying in bed longer than I should as per usual, and while I was watching your video on 7 healthy Japanese habits, it occurred to me that nothing I do in the morning, whether it's on a day off ar going to work feels GOOD in my body or my mind. I just get up and wish I were back in bed. But this inspired me today. The best one for me was cleaning every morning. I just wanted to thank you so much for your channel and wish you the best day you have ever had. ❤️
I am impressed by your will to experiment and endure hardship. It is inspiring.
I loved this. It makes you realise that you really don’t need much to live a contented life.
Yes!! Exactly!!
This really opened my eyes on how many things we keep in our homes we don’t actually need. Often we just want things to have them. Wow!
You asked for comments. I was really taken by your humbleness and honesty. Your thoughts at the end are important. Your extreme minimalism seems that you are consciously choosing items to have with you whilst constantly being grateful to them. You have done very well and I've subscribed just to watch you along your journey. Good luck!
Thank you so much. I'm so glad to hear that! I will keep doing my best!
As a maximalist, this is a nightmare for me 😁 but everyone has a right to live a life they want to as much as they can it also make me think about how spoilt for choices we modern folks are. tq for sharing
Love that you chose to wear Fundoshi XD I appreciate you showing such cool parts of Japan. I've been decluttering things in the past few days but your video gave ma a mind set to go a bit more extreme.
As someone who considers themselves a ‘maximalist’ it’s fascinating to see people striving to a minimalist lifestyle. Completely different philosophies, but both can provide a valuable insight into life and happiness.
I think in the longrun it makes you appreciate what you actually have even more and your happines isn't dictated by how much you have. I'm not really a minimalist by choice, but for a long time I just couldn't afford anything really, so I had to live a minimalistic live to survive. I guess this philosophy stayed with me even though I'm doing well these days.
What do you mean by you are a "maximalist"?
@@haydenj4738 it’s a load of bollocks. It means instead of simplifying life people just buy, buy, buy loads of shit and are like really proud of it. It’s mainly a load of bollocks because this is what almost everyone does, in the western world- that is the default. It doesn’t need some new quirky label. It’s called over consumption under capitalism but they don’t want to feel bad about having so much, the ethics of where it all comes from, etc. Thus the new label. But it is not anything new….
There's nothing wrong with either lifestyle. Minimalism in daily life can help you focus on your priorities. "maximalism" i.e consumerism is the natural tendency to want an extremely comfortable, entertaining, happy lifestyle. Not only does that stimulate the economy, it drives the demand for technological innovations and artistic creations.
While I wouldn't take on such an extreme challenge personally. I do something similar by going camping (outdoor tent) every so often just so that I can appreciate the daily comforts in my home.
@@Vivivofi No, it's not. It's not the same as consumerism at all. It's about an aesthetic of excess, loudness, gaudiness, comfort, even luxury, etc. but it doesn't mean buying lots of things.
It's not a quirky new label either; rococo, for example, is a very 'maximalist' aesthetic; the aesthetic exists in design, art, music, fashion, and lifestyle just like minimalism does.
Personally, I like having a lot of clothes, I like having different items that suit each situation and mood better; not restricting myself in my choices. However, I don't support the fast fashion industry; I thrift my entire wardrobe and also make a lot of things myself. While there is technically no ethical consumption under capitalism, just because you enjoy an aesthetic of 'more', doesn't mean supporting consumerism.
How thought provoking!! This experiment has layers of inspiration, humbleness and essential elements. Thank you SO much for this. Your students are lucky to have your perspective and initiative!
I'm so flattered;-D Thank you so much!
Wow! It is so brave to start with zero! I would at least start with a bed, one set of clothes and a toothbrush. 😅 This challenge is so inspiring! Thank you for sharing! And best wishes from germany! 😊
Yeah, I would recommend that you start with some items;-D haha Thank you so much!!
Sie sind eine Frau :D deswegen... Ich würde auch mit dem Bett beginnen da ich Rücken problem habe... Ich habe 5 Jahren in Essen gelebt... Aus welche Ecke sind Sie, Schöne Grüsse aus Paris
I'm really glad you took care not to show the faces of the children, or anyone else who didn't agree to be in this video; I don't know if the rules are that strict in Japan, but regardless, it actually makes me trust that you did this challenge without skirting the rules behind the camera.
After watching this video, I decided to go around my apartment and put a marker on everything I knew I would never miss and could live comfortably without. Turns out it's a lot more than I expected. Other than the stuff that came with the apartment, like kitchen shelves, which I can't legally remove, I've gotten rid of everything but my desk (and the stuff on it), my bed and a single drawer.
Nice job dude!!
This is a very interesting experiment. It definitely highlights the importance of some items for our day-to-day wellbeing, like how the mattress made such a big difference. I can see how down the line though, as one reaches more superfluous items the happiness they provide have diminishing returns.
6:28 - As a Swede, it's delightful to see Fjällräven so popular in other countries. I visited the United States back in 2019 and got really excited when in a store there was an entire shelf dedicated to Fjällräven bags. As an additional piece of trivia; Kånken is pronounced very similar to コンケン rather than カンケン. "Kånka" is a colloquialism meaning "to carry something burdensome." Thus "kånken" is something like, "the carrier of one's burdens."
Though that sounds a lot more profound in English than it does in Swedish.
Interesting
These bags are really popular all over Europe, almost everyone i know has one xd
a few years ago everyone in the states wanted one!!! it was popular among teenage girls (VSCO girls) 😅
I love the meaning🥺 so wholesome!! to carry one’s burdens!
I think it would have been acceptable to start the trial with one full set of clothing. After all a minimal lifestyle doesn't have to mean nudity. In fact, since clothing is essential for shopping and usually work I would say that one or two changes of clothing would be perfectly fine to start with and decide on non-essential items.
Yes,I could’ve chose more clothes. Since this was my first challenge, go easy on me. haha
He followed his parameters of the challenge. For future reference yeah it might be smart for normal people to keep work clothes and a few other changes of clothes
I'm inclined to think... that this way, you had to think WHAT item of clothing was the most versatile . The kimono was an inspiration.! Brilliant video .best wishes from the UK.
He followed the idea that was in the movie, and in the movie they started challenge fully naked.
I think he was brave to do it!
@SHICKEN NUGGIES I believe it's in reference to the guy in the movie, the inspiration for Samurai Matcha's challenge, who started out naked. Samurai Matcha said he couldn't be naked because of CZcams, so he started with the fundoshi.
I don't think I could ever commit to the extreme minimalist lifestyle. I am a craftsperson at heart, so I own a lot of things a minimalist would deem unnecessary. Like a stack of old eggcartons. The inspiration to make something often hits me out of nothing, and if I do not have what I need at hand it eventually leaves me. Of course, there is a challenge in working with less materials as it forces you to be creative with what is at your disposal, and I have to do that a lot. But there comes a point where not using a certain tool or material becomes more frustrating than anything. However, you have certainly inspired me to try and reduce in other parts of my life. I will never be a minimalist, but there are always things that I do not need and might even be better off with without.
A true creative is not stumped by the materials available to them.
I have an extreme problem with portability, I like things organized and easy to move around whenever I want. I became an extreme minimalist and I love it. Declutter!
It is priceless to witness the process of deciding what to own by beginning with nothing. The initial pain and suffering can become catalysts for intense gratitude. Thank you for this. ❤
My mom has always taught me the 20/20 rule, if you can replace it for less than $20 in 20 minutes, you don’t need it. It helps to get rid of the extraneous things. I also like to put a bin in my closet of random things and if I don’t reach for them within two months then I can do without them. I have also seen people who turn all of their hangers the other way and if within a certain amount of time they haven’t worn it and switched the hanger then it gets donated.
I loved it. This video was the most interesting and intelligent video I've watched about minimalism.
Really, it's an individual thing, we decide on utensils we need and some other objects simply because we like them.
Thanks!! Looking for things I like is interesting;-D
I can’t even imagine how I would do without my stuff! That would be 30 days of madness. In Siberia, and I’m from cold part of Russia, people tend to pile things up. I don’t know where this tradition came from. But I think that’s the way we try not to be afraid of death. Every thing has a part of us. It's like Voldemort's Horcruxes 👀 Really cool video!💚
Normally in Japan too. Many people pile many things up 😓Voldemort!! Haha
It made me realise that we need a few, varying types of clothes - but we can live without an entire wardrobe.
I'm almost 30 and have realised we do need material things (clothes, laptops, etc) to live in today's world, but we seriously do not need much more than the essentials to live a content life.
I'm always experimenting with different degrees of minimalism and liked seeing you challenge yourself.
Much admiration at the fact that you still continued to go about tasks and unexpected things (like the cow getting stuck in the mud!) while still proceeding with the challenge. It would have been so easy to quit for me!
This reminds me of 10 yrs ago. I went minimalist. People had kept giving away stuff in my family/friends group. So I had almost double or triple of everything for free by the time I was 21, especially clothes and dishes. I gave up my mattress(another free item) which was really heavy. I didn't regret, because I used a few thick blankets on the floor. When I became a minimalist, I basically had a bed, table that could fold up and expand, and a chair. To some degree I managed to maintain minimalism, but recently had to go through a lot of clearing out of things.
I am impressed by your will and your honesty. I do my best to move towards minimalism but i don’t want to be in the extreme. You are an inspiration for me . Friendly
Thank you for your nice comment! Yeah, you don't need to be a extreme minimalist;-D
I love your minimalism. I think I would choose:
Day 1: mattress
Day 2: kimono
Day 3: rice cooker
Day 4: sleeping bag
Day 5: shorts
Day 6: shirt
Day 7: iPhone
Day 8: chair
Day 9: knife
Day 10: spoon
Day 11: cutting board
Day 12: toothbrush
Day 13: computer
Day 14: clothes washer
Day 15: fridge
Day 16: stove
Day 17: chopsticks
Day 18: socks
Day 19: shoes
Day 20: blender
Day 21: shirt
Day 22: tea pot
Day 23: lamp
Day 24: bowl
Day 25: bike
Day 26: pants
Day 27: cup
Day 28: broom
Day 29: ukulele
Day 30: essential oils
mattress first, yeah!!
@@SamuraiMatcha yeah I got confused by this
Day 1matress day 2 iphone day 3 charger day 4 pillow day 5 tv day 6 ps5. day 7 chair day 8 speaker day 9 pc day 10 pants day 11 shirt day 12 hat day 13 shoes day 14 socks day 15 pillow 16 pillow 17blanket 18blanket 19 pillow 20pillow 21blanket 22 shampoo 23shampoo 24 deudorant 25 bike 26 mopedcAr aixam gto 2019. 27 gasoline 28 gasoline 29gasolin 30gasoline
Watching this video, I found myself becoming jealous of someone who had nothing. That is the universe giving you a hint.
Keeping the wrong knife is not minimalist. Thank you for your insights! Love, gratitude 🙏
just got this video recommended randomly and watched the whole video :D keep up the good work, very high quality and interesting to watch! probably the coolest teacher ever :)
Thank you for your nice comment! I will keep doing my best!
Anch'io/ me too!
Random recomendation to me as well subscribed to learn more
throughout this video, I was just thinking to myself - wow this man seems to be living an amazing life, based on the experiences you had with your students, friends and family in that month. Few things didn't matter, but your social life is wonderful
I heard that "if you haven't used the item in 2 years, it can go" and it's helped me decide what I want to keep
I lost nearly everything I have and had been homeless since November. I now have a job as a live-in housekeeper, which affords me room (a tiny bedroom) and board (meals). I am grateful to God for a job and a roof over my head.
As I rebuild my life, I am more mindful of what I choose to fill my space. I love the simplicity of owning a single cot, a small folding table, a desk and a solar radio. I keep a few sets of clothes in a box and have some books to read, which I trade with friends for new (to me) books. My life is simple and peaceful. I have more time to pray and meditate. I sleep well and am content.
Your minimalist hiking reminded me of one of my last hikes. It was not a very difficult hike, but I noticed that all the people I met wore expensive boots. I was only wearing my old sneakers and felt a bit out of place. But then in the middle of the hike in the forest I met a woman, that was not wearing shoes at all. And I thought that in fact she is much closer to nature and has a very different experience, than te people that buy expensive equipment that they don't really need.
I think this experiment, or a similar experiment, is great to do once in a while. We grow complacent with the things in our lives. We’re no longer grateful for things like soft beds, hot showers, or clean clothes - we just expect them. I have a lack of dopamine due to ADHD so I’m constantly buying new things to cheer myself up. Minimalism is a great way to help those of us who have unhealthy spending habits.
I love what you did. It's a mental exercise really that is then applied and tested practically. My daughter is quite obsessed with primitive skills and minimalism. So I would love to see a new version of this challenge: Not only to identify what you truly need but *make it* (or source it) yourself as sustainably as possible without major expenses. So the basic clothes you need, for example, you source the fabric second hand, salvage it from "throw-aways", then sew it yourself. The spoon or chopsticks you already showed. A matress can be created from many natural or recycled materials: eg, dried grass, straw, woven matts. Some items may be really challenging, which might make it impossible but possibly very interesting, like a knife. You could find someone who makes blades/knives by hand. The same about chopping boards, plates, cups. Basic Home made soap... just a strange idea.
To sustain all the basic needs of the modern human you must specialize in some kind of work (a blacksmith cannot be at the same time a farmer). To obtain all these items you are concieving the idea of trade, so an accumulation of capital has to be made before. Not quite in line with the whole minimalist philosophy
@@enricmasipfont1797 thank you for your input. I politely disagree. There are many ways to fulfill minimalist needs. I also didn't say you have to provide all ingredients yourself. Some may be recycled or upcycled. I acknowledge that this is not necessarily the purpose of this channel. I simply gave some feedback. With basic primitive skills: you use your environment as the tool. For example, if you have stone you build a (small) stone dwelling, if you have clay, you use mud. This is just an example. I do not think that primitive skills and minimalism exclude each other. Primitive skills by definition are minimalist (you can't get more minimalist than a bushmen tribe), however, not all minimalists utilize primitive skills. Just a different perspective.
This is like when you start a new file in a video game and your character has absolutely nothing. Maybe like some underwear and a stick 😂.
Jokes aside, this was really interesting and enjoyable to watch. After growing up in a house full of unnecessary clutter, I find minimalism very interesting. I don't think I could ever be a minimalist myself but I definitely much prefer living with only the things I really need and love and parting with any objects I keep 'just in case' or out of obligation.
Is this a reference to a webtoon
yes, like the sims. i always enjoy the beginning of the game most. as they climb up in income, it gets boring
So refreshing! You are a wonderful teacher. I'm glad I've had the opportunity to watch, listen and learn from your challenges and videos!
This was great! You have really inspired me. My mom has died recently, and I am the owner now of her home and I'm trying to clean it out. I want to go minimalist too-- but when you are a homeowner, there are a LOT of things you MUST have-- like tools, for when plumbing breaks.... or things to maintain your home, (bug sprays, cleaning solutions, yard tools, pet items)... it's all of the knick-knacks that need to go. The clutter.... I don't need 10 notebooks, just 1. I don't need 18 pots/pans, just a couple.... I have already donate 70% of my mom's belongings to our local thrift store, and I'm still not done. But you have inspired me to keep going!
So no one is gonna comment on how fit he is?
I noticed! ;)
I admire your ability to walk the walk. I have been on minimal like retreats that change aspects of my life. I can imagine those 30 days could do the the same. Congratulations and good luck on the next 30.
Thank you for watching my video! and Thank you for your nice comments!
This looks like a really fun experiment! As someone who tries to downsize the items I own while still keeping things I'm attached to and keeping my space cozy, this is really interesting. Personally, I would've definitely chosen some soap instead of the tenugui towel xD Since you could wash the stinky clothes, and then use them as a clean towel again!
Same here, and then you wouldn’t have to worry about clothing being stinky
Todo lo japonés merece mi respeto . Disciplina y clase , gracias y un saludo desde España.
I just picked up that book, and now I am interested in reading it. I have had some experience with minimalism during two perios when I moved, and was without all my things for several months. While I did buy some essential items, I was surprised at the time how few things one needed to be satisified with life. And when my stuff came, I never unpacked half of of it. But now I need to get rid of those full boxes...
Thank you for watching my video! Yeah, there is not so many things you need in your life. I hope you can manage that full boxes...
That's my challenge now :D
That's really awesome. I liked seeing that you really wanted to give up, but didn't give up. And then the happiness you experienced the day you got the mattress! Also, when you used the laptop, you minimized it's use for personal purposes and used it mainly for work. That seems like a small but important point to the overall experience you had. You really inspired me.
Very cool video. My first would have been the mattress and second would have been soap. Those are non negotiable for me lol. I have actually been a minimalist all my life without knowing it. I’ve moved 7 times from country to country with just two suitcases and have always liked the clean sleek look of very few but special things. 🌸
Yeah, mattress is a must!! haha Thank you for telling me your story;-D
What an amazing month! Choosing each item thoughtfully, appreciating it's value, is such an important lesson. I respect how you incorporated the challenge into a busy and frankly interesting life. If this thoughtfulness stays with you, I wonder if it will lead to a reduction in the amount of things you own.
This challenge seemed more like "Living as a broke college student for 30 days". It reminds me of my college days.
I love that you are showcasing the original Japanese culture of true zen via less. The Indian culture back in the day is exactly the same as the Japanese culture. But modern day India has forgotten the amazing 4000 years old, yes 4 millenia old Hindu way of life .... NOT a religion! Just pure simple living with just what we need which is truly NOT a lot and not hurting animals and trashing the planet like we are doing today! I loved this challenge. You are very bold for just wearing the Japanese underwear! :D Indians have the same thing too .. just in white ... think Gandhi ... Mahatma! I think you are sincere and honest and genuine. That's probably why your videos transcend accent, race, etc and reach all audiences! Love it! Thank you for this! :D
Thank you for watching my video. I didn't know about that! Wow, same underwear. Thank you for your lovely comments and I will keep doing my best!
"I've missed this so matcha" :') !! Thank you Aki... just the inspiration I needed today and going forward on my journey. I like the idea of starting with nothing and gradually adding what you truly need, instead of the other way around. Please continue to create videos, you are a pro, unique and a source of joy! ☀️
Thank you for the lovely comment! I will keep doing my best!
Yes!
Haha that pun made me “like” it immediately. So cute! ☺️
As someone who has a new hobby almost every other I can’t imagine having an enjoyable or interesting existence as an extreme minimalist.
@@mommalion7028 I rarely spend money, I have everything I need for my different needs they just change a lot and then maybe I’ll come back to them a few months later. My hobbies aren’t about self improvement, I think it’s quite toxic to make every part of your life about self improvement, I just do what I like when I like because it’s fun, and I personally feel like minimalism limits that a lot. Yes, don’t keep clutter and mindlessly spend money but don’t deprive yourself because minimalism made you think you should.
We never really think of the things we take for granted. Thank you coz now I have so much more appreciation.
This reminds me of me in 2020. Originally I wanted to drive around Europe for a year. I sold everything, my bed, my closet, most clothes and books, you name it. Got rid of my apartement and felt really free. Then Covid hit and the borders closed down. I decided to get an apartement and put my trip on the shelf to start school a year earlier than planned. When I moved in, I only had the things I had in my car. A fork, knife and spoon, five books, blanket and pillow, my dog and a single lamp. I decided to only buy stuff that I need, and it was an interesting feeling. It made me smile when you said the matress felt like heaven, I got my bed two months after I got my apartement. To me it was a luxury item, and I still cherish it every single night. Great video ^^
Him choosing deodorant instead of soap killed me.
Thanks for your advice.
This was very interesting and thought provoking. I'm working on letting go of things I don't need, I have no intention of taking it to this extreme but I should reflect more on what I chose to keep. I'm trying to balance having less stuff with having a peaceful and comfortable home. Especially since I plan to adopt a child.
Thank you so much!! That’s great.Balance is really important🤙
Thank you so much for the inspiration! I feel so inspired now to declutter a bit more this weekend. I already am a minimalist, but I got quite some things after I moved (and people told me, my apartment wasn't cozy enough..duh.). So thank you for being here!
Great! Let's do our best together!
As roman people used to say "Hunger is the best spice for any food" (or something like that). I always admired such videos and people who make them! Lessons that we learn from this sort of challenge is invaluable! Good health to you, your students and family!
I love your dedication, Aki! The fact that you made it through the 30 days was incredible.
Your progression and thought process throughout this challenge reminds me of the current situation I’m in. I recently moved to a new house and I placed a majority of my things in a spare room since my bedroom is smaller than my last. I am finding that I rarely make the trip to the spare room for more things. It really doesn’t take much to be content
Hi Aki, this is Norah from México, a girl developing an existence full of experiences and always reinventing myself, in this new chapter I want to experience, less is more. Thank you for share your challenge, I also watched the movie right after I saw the video. You have a new follower. Arigatou gozai mas!
If I did something similar I'd probably start with 10-15 items. The point of minimalism isn't really to consider the need for a toothbrush :) Very fun and interesting video.
One of the things that I find really interesting about halfway through the video is that so far most of the items picked were closely related to personal identity. And while most of these items also had dual uses such as the kimono being used as a blanket and the cloth being used as a bandana and cleaning tool, I wonder whether these choices would be reflected in similar experiments conducted by other people from various cultures. If so, I think it says a lot about how integral self-perception is to our survival, that when we undergo a drastic change in our living, our personal identities are what we consider to be the most important characteristic that we need to continue.
beautiful observation
this video is a great example of why extreme minimalism is similar to a "1st world problem".
It is something that people who have the most in the world compared to many others do as a hobby because the CAN do it. they, at all times, have the option to live with more.
Actual true minimalism is not a contest or a vehicle to get "likes" on social media.
True minimalism is about taking an inventory of your possessions and then getting rid of things that do not fall into two categories.
Category 1: items that you actually NEED... this would include clothing that you commonly wear and this would include a winter coat that you only wear at times in the winter when needed. the point is that it is not something you need every day or even every month but it is a necessary item. If you have 7 pairs of dress shoes needed for work in an office environment, then perhaps you only need a single pair of black and a single pair of brown (depending upon your wardrobe of course)
I think it would also be reasonable to keep a full set of plates and bowls and forks and knives etc ... IF you are the type to commonly invite people over for dinner. If, however, you are a person such as myself who rarely ever has visitors and in those rare instances it is one or a maximum of two people then you only need the number of place settings to allow for that.
Category 2: Nostalgic items. Photos, letters etc. There is an argument that these could be scanned and digitized however... I believe there is some nostalgic value in holding a hand written letter or an old style polaroid photo that your mother took of the family at the park in the 70s. The old typewriter that your grandfather used. etc etc
The problem being solved by the most common (non-1st world hobby, attention-seeking for social media) is to grasp that our possessions also own us. So if you are going to have possessions, then they should be things that are significant to you in either their usefulness to you or their meaning to you.
Thank you!!
I love this video. Was surprised to see just how much you can live without. I think it was really interesting that about one fifth of the items you chose were hygiene items. I really want to try this challenge because as an American, I have WAAAYYYY too much stuff and I KNOW I could do without much of it.
Thanks for the inspiration!
😄！！
"Running in the morning with my bare feet can only be called hell." LOL this was an interesting video! I just found your channel and love your content.
I wish I went to your school, picking blueberries,going to swim in a river, have noodles etc!!😆
Aki is so cute! What a wonderful smile and such a delightful personality!
I am loving your channel! I'm a 2nd grade teacher in America and I think you are such an inspiration! What a great role model for your students to think about what is really important in life.
As a teacher myself from Malaysia, I recognise that you're good teacher. We know Japanese education is backward but there are some values about your culture such as cleanliness that you must hold on. South Eastern countries choose to look up to Japanese values and systems sometimes. Teaching your student out of the classroom, teach them to connect with nature is so good for them. Your resilient and the way you are thinking fascinate me.
Fantastic video and also a fascinating glimpse into a beautiful culture. I loved it when you went to visit your family and the shrine and the graves. And the DIY drive-in in the rain! And getting the cow out of the mud!! As someone else said, you have more fun in 30 days than most people have in a year! 😃 ❤
I am starting to see that we need more things to fit in with society then we need for ourselves. including clothes, razors, technology, ect.
We don't need much to be happy, food in our stomach, warm bed to sleep in and a roof over our heads. So many people think material possessions make you happy, they don't! I really enjoy watching your videos. Much respect from Australia 🇦🇺 👏 ❤
You are a gentleman and an adventurous soul. As a teacher myself, I can easily see that your students are very lucky to have you. Congratulations sir.
I learned a lot by a few situations like that. All of a sudden, it's bringing an understanding of what we need and what we don't need - even a peace of mind with reality or healing. A funny example was getting my rented apartment back after some repairs from a disaster. I couldn't get my stuff in the storage place before I came back from a long travel and sort of lived there again.