How my life has changed since moving to RURAL SCOTLAND

Summary

In this video, the creator reflects on their transformative six-year journey living in the Scottish Highlands. Surrounded by nature, they embrace a slow and minimalist lifestyle, focusing on mental well-being, creativity, and a deeper connection with the seasons. Though the beauty of the Highlands inspires their creativity, they stress the importance of inner peace and self-acceptance over external surroundings. They acknowledge the challenges of rural life, including isolation and weather, but emphasize that happiness comes from aligning with one's true self, not from idealized environments. The video encourages viewers to embrace what works for them personally.

Takeaways

• 😀 Living in the Scottish Highlands offers a deep connection to nature, with rivers, hills, and forests right on the doorstep.
• 😀 Daily walks with the dog are a significant part of the routine, fostering a close relationship with the natural environment.
• 😀 Aligning daily life with the changing seasons—through routines, diet, and reading—enhances appreciation of each season's unique qualities.
• 😀 The harsh weather in the Highlands, especially the long winters, requires practical preparations for daily life and travel.
• 😀 Minimalism was embraced after moving to the Highlands, focusing on what truly matters and reducing material possessions.
• 😀 Money is not the key to happiness; time and how it is spent are far more valuable, particularly in a rural, slow-paced life.
• 😀 Rural living in the Highlands means being farther from friends and family, which can lead to feelings of isolation, but also an opportunity to invest in deeper, meaningful relationships.
• 😀 The Highlands have nurtured a sense of sensitivity, where being a highly sensitive person is celebrated rather than viewed as a weakness.
• 😀 The natural beauty of the Highlands has inspired creativity, leading to the creation of a blog that has become a full-time job.
• 😀 Life in the Highlands is not perfect, and relying on external surroundings to make you happy can be dangerous. Inner peace and authenticity are essential for true contentment.

Q & A

What motivated the speaker to move to the Scottish Highlands?

The speaker's decision to move to the Scottish Highlands was a transformative one, seeking a slower pace of life, closer connection to nature, and a more fulfilling lifestyle.

How has living in the Scottish Highlands impacted the speaker's relationship with nature?

Living in the Highlands has deepened the speaker's connection with nature, as they now spend more time outdoors and are in tune with the changing seasons, aligning their routines and activities accordingly.

What role does minimalism play in the speaker's life after moving to the Highlands?

Minimalism has become a significant part of the speaker's lifestyle. They have let go of unnecessary material possessions and embraced a simpler way of life, focusing on time and experiences rather than material wealth.

How does the speaker manage the isolation of living in a rural area?

Although the speaker enjoys solitude and doesn't often feel lonely, they emphasize the importance of investing in relationships that bring joy, as isolation can be prevalent in rural areas.

What challenges does the speaker face living in a rural area like the Scottish Highlands?

The speaker faces practical challenges such as long winters, difficult snow conditions, and a sense of distance from friends and family. However, they adapt by staying closer to home during colder months and embracing the slower pace of life.

How has the speaker's sensitivity shaped their life in the Highlands?

The speaker has learned to embrace their sensitivity as a strength rather than a weakness. Living in the Highlands, with its peaceful, natural surroundings, has helped them thrive and focus on the positive aspects of being a sensitive person.

Has the speaker's move to the Highlands contributed to their creativity?

Yes, living in the Highlands has been a major source of inspiration for the speaker's creativity. The wild beauty of the landscape inspired them to start a blog, 'Hippie Highland Living,' which has grown into a full-time job.

What does the speaker believe about finding happiness and peace in life?

The speaker believes that true happiness and peace come from within, not from external circumstances like location. They emphasize the importance of finding inner contentment and living in alignment with one's true self.

Does the speaker view their life in the Highlands as perfect?

No, the speaker acknowledges that their life in the Highlands is not perfect. While they are grateful for the life they've built, they recognize that they still face challenges, including periods of poor mental health, and that no life is flawless.

What advice does the speaker offer to others considering a rural lifestyle?

The speaker advises that while a rural lifestyle can be incredibly fulfilling, it may not be for everyone. It’s important to recognize your own needs and circumstances, and pursue a lifestyle that aligns with your happiness and well-being.