Since returning from the Vipassana meditation camp, I’ve been simplifying my life. (Yes, i went to a 10 day silent meditation camp, and yes, my sabbatical was way more crazy than i have imagined.)

I’ve come to deeply realize that a simple life can be so fulfilling and joyful. Sometimes, it’s not the lack of things that troubles us, but rather the abundance.

In the meditation center, the food was always simple vegetarian fare, yet it was the best I had ever tasted. For the first time, I discovered just how fragrant and sweet bananas can be, and how deliciously fresh steamed carrots and broccoli could taste.

Every day at lunchtime, I would be captivated by the aroma of the food when I entered the dining hall. Even if I didn’t feel particularly hungry at first, the scent of the food would stir my appetite, as if my stomach suddenly made room for more. Meals were served buffet-style, and I would always fill my plate. I’ll never forget the feeling of that first bite each day—it was an extraordinary experience, a taste I had never truly appreciated before. However, by the time I had eaten halfway through my plate, I was starting to feel full, and the food no longer seemed as delicious as when I started. Out of a desire to avoid waste, I would always try to finish everything on my plate, even if, by the end, it felt like chewing wax and was a bit of a struggle.

Later, our teacher suggested we eat less, saying it would be beneficial for us. I tried resisting the powerful temptation of the delicious aromas and took only three-quarters of a plate for lunch. No one knew the internal struggle I faced each time.  I kept reminding myself, “If you’re still hungry, you can always go back for more.” Surprisingly, 80% of the time, 70% a plate was enough to fill me up, and it was perfect—I enjoyed the entire meal without feeling overstuffed. Afternoon meditation was more peaceful and comfortable because my stomach wasn’t full to bursting.

Isn’t life just the same? We are constantly attracted to various things, thinking, “This looks great, and that seems wonderful too.” We see challenging projects and want to take them on; interesting events appear and feel impossible to miss; our children’s matters seem most important and can’t be set aside; our personal growth is the foundation of life and can’t be neglected… Before we know it, our life’s “plate” is piled high with too many “dishes.” When we place each one on, it feels exciting, but in the end, we are left with a heavy heart, swallowing it all without truly savoring anything.

Leaving some space in life allows us to fully enjoy each moment.

Eating until you’re 70% full is healthier, and living life to 70% capacity is much happier.