Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Theology

Program Name/Specialization

Spiritual Care and Counselling

Faculty/School

Martin Luther University College

First Advisor

Dr. Ara Parker

Advisor Role

Dissertation Supervisor

Abstract

This qualitative study explores the lived experiences of minimalists residing in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, focusing on their motivations, lifestyle practices, and perceived impacts on wellbeing and human flourishing. In response to the growing popularity of minimalism and the limited research in the Canadian context, this research addresses the question: What are the lived experiences of minimalists residing in Toronto and how they make sense of it? Using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA), data was collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews with nine highly educated participants of diverse gender identities and ethnic backgrounds. Findings reveal that participants were initially motivated by practical concerns such as financial hardship, life transitions, health crises, and environmental awareness. Over time, these motivations deepened to reflect spiritual, ethical, and philosophical values. Minimalist practices fostered autonomy, simplicity, intentional living, and community engagement, with participants frequently describing a strong sense of meaning and interconnectedness. The study’s use of VanderWeele’s (2017) six-domain flourishing framework reveals that urban minimalism supports holistic wellbeing and offers new insights into the intersection of lifestyle, meaning, spirituality, and sustainability. This research contributes to academic literature by filling a gap in Canadian-based studies and offers practical implications for psychotherapy, spirituality, lifestyle interventions, and urban policy. It challenges narrow conceptions of minimalism as purely aesthetic or decluttering-focused, highlighting instead its potential as a pathway to a more purposeful life and flourishing natural world.

Comments

This study examined the lived experiences of urban minimalists in Toronto, focusing on the motivations behind their lifestyle, its impact on wellbeing, and the broader connection to human flourishing.

Key findings demonstrate that minimalism is not merely about reducing possessions but reflects a deeper ethical and intentional way of living. This expands current understandings by integrating spirituality and meaning-making as central elements of minimalist practice.

The study contributes to existing literature by reframing minimalism as a relational and ecological practice that enhances meaning, agency, and life satisfaction. The updated conceptual framework integrates personal values with environmental consciousness, social connectedness, and spirituality, offering a more holistic understanding of flourishing.

Convocation Year

2025

Convocation Season

Fall

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