L'art de la Simplicite: How to Live More with Less

by Dominique Loreau, Louise Lalaurie (Translator)

Overview

Discover the magic of simplicity in this international bestseller, available for the first time in English.

Dominque Loreau is the master in the art of de-cluttering and simplifying. Now her groundbreaking L’art de la Simplicité, a huge bestseller in her native France, is translated into English for the first time. Loreau’s principle of “less is more” is set to change your life forever.

Living in Japan and inspired by Asian philosophy, Loreau takes you on a step-by-step journey to a clutter-free home, a calm mind and an energized body. Free yourself of possessions you don’t want or need; have more money to spend on life’s little luxuries; eat better and lose weight; and say goodbye to anxiety and negative relationships.

Give yourself the gift of health and happiness; to live fully and freely is to live with L’art de la Simplicité.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781250120304
Publisher:	St. Martin's Publishing Group
Publication date:	01/03/2017
Pages:	256
Sales rank:	372,722
Product dimensions:	5.20(w) x 7.20(h) x 1.00(d)

About the Author

DOMINIQUE LOREAU is a French essayist who has lived in Japan since the 1970s. She is also the author of L’art de l’Essentiel and L’art des Listes.

Editorial Reviews

09/26/2016
Loreau (L’Art del’Essential) combines Zen with utter practicality in this empowering book of advice, a bestseller in France. After explaining that “more and more people are seeking the joys and benefits of a simpler, more natural existence,” Loreau arranges her writings into three general sections: “Materialism and Minimalism,” “Body,” and “Mind.” Covering practical topics such as money (“your servant, not your master”) and self-directed fitness, as well as philosophical ones such as mindfulness and the art of change, she advocates simple but sometimes difficult emotional habits, including learning to say no (“When you compromise your dreams or values for another person, you lose a little of yourself and your strength”), avoiding negativity, having self-faith, and dealing with anxiety. Sensible rituals and affirmations help readers follow the author’s sage advice to accept life as it is. Loreau credits her emphasis on minimalism to Japan, where she has lived for many years, and describes Japanese culture as placing great importance in simplicity and serenity. Despite the occasional odd suggestion (not many people will limit their wardrobes to black, beige, gray, and white), this is a thought-provoking tome, elegantly translated by Lalaurie, with a powerful message. (Jan.)

Publishers Weekly

Jenny Funnell narrates this guide to simplifying life in a clipped, businesslike British accent that’s a fine match for Dominique Loreau’s no-nonsense advice on simplifying one’s life. Funnell speaks with the authority Loreau earned through years of living, studying, and reflecting in Japan—ultimately leading to this collection of practical tips for building a calm, elegant daily existence. Funnell’s performance reflects Loreau’s uncompromising philosophy and is not likely to win over converts who thrive amid clutter, but it will motivate and inspire those who are embarking on decluttering projects or who are just looking for strategies to smooth daily life. Dedicated self-help fans and people who are serious about simplifying are the best audiences for this production. A.F. © AudioFile 2017, Portland, Maine

AUGUST 2017 - AudioFile