Soap & the Simple Life

5 ways the humble bar can help you move towards simplicity.

Did you know that over half of us dream of becoming smallholders? Working the land, country life and idyllic, beautiful views seem to call those of us who are resourceful, productive and value our freedom. We love the idea of meeting the challenges of self sufficiency, living the old ways - how we were meant to. However, with around 83% of us living in urban areas striving to make a living, working our way up in our careers and meeting the needs of family life is our priority in all reality. So whilst the dream will remain a dream for many of us there’s no reason to be a land owner with a gazillion acres in order to take the time to live well. The simple life is about enjoying what we have, making the most of where we live, aiming for a healthier, more fulfilling lifestyle with fresher food to eat and fulfilling our own unique life’s purpose.

So how does this tie into soap? For me the humble bar is representative of the simple life mindset. Here’s why;

Simplicity is appreciating the small things in life

There is nothing more simple than a bar of soap and I love making this everyday product. I love that it can be a bit special, a bit indulgent and I love that it has provenance because we incorporate our own honey and beeswax. I enjoy using bar soap; the process of washing is an opportunity to slow down and be present. I look forward to using a luxury bar with essential oils…because that moment is mine.

Simplicity is learning from the earth and is the precursor to sustainable development

Bar soap is the natural choice for eco-conscious consumers who respect the earth and everything on it. It can have great eco-credentials; requiring a fifth of the energy to produce compared to liquid soap, according to the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology. It’s often without plastic packaging unlike shower gels and liquid soap (our soap wraps are made with recycled paper ;) and can be sourced without controversial palm oil that’s responsible for destroying Orangutan habitats (we are palm oil free!)

Simplicity calls on people to rethink their values

I have to be the first to admit I love Amazon shopping and I don’t think I could give that up as it’s part of modern living….but I also like to support local farmers by buying milk from our local dairy, going to farmers markets and buying from small businesses where possible. It keeps them in business and helps support the economy. They have the same values and vested interest as us and it’s food security for the community. So why not get to know small companies and feel confident where your products come from, learn who makes them and how and strengthen community ties.

Simplicity is choosing the natural options and not overindulging in things we don’t need

High quality vegetable-based soap made with natural ingredients is good for your skin and free of synthetic additives but not all soap is the same. You maybe surprised to know that some bar soaps are not soaps at all, they’re ‘syndets’ which means synthetic detergent and have very little, if any, benefit to the skin. The right handmade soap can avoid all undesirable ingredients such as synthetic fragrances or SLS which can be drying and irritating to the skin. Super fatted cold processed soap means that some of the oils and butters used to make it will not be turned into soap but will remain in the bar along with glycerine, a bi-product of the process. Both these things help to make it more nourishing and moisturising. The purpose of soap is to dissolve dirt, grease and remove microbes on the skins surface. Ask yourself whether a 10 step skincare routine will really fulfil the basic necessity of having clean and healthy skin or if we are being enticed to purchase unnecessary products.

Simplicity is appreciating inner beauty

I don’t know about you but I would rather have a meaningful discussion about someone’s passion in life and learn why they get up in the morning than talk about the latest beauty products and obsess over outer appearance. It’s just not important. Use soap, save time and money, do your bit for the planet and enjoy your life. Simples :)