Minimalism and Buddhism

 The Buddha said:

Having thus gone forth he lives restrained in body, speech, and mind, content with the simplest food and shelter, delighting in solitude (DN 2 Thanissaro).

Until recently, minimalism was called simplicity or simple living. It was practiced by the Buddha, his monastic followers, and those serious about their spiritual practice. A cluttered room has a negative effect on the mind.

The fruit of the meditative life is one of peace, simplicity, and contentment. A "balanced life" is one that is "neither extravagant nor miserly" (AN 8.54 Narada). It has just the things needed to accomplish one's mission in life, and nothing more. 

The Buddha taught "less is more" before minimalism was a thing. His wisdom on living a simple life is clear and straightforward. Concentrate your energy on living out the Noble Eightfold Path of right view, right resolve, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right meditation.