10% Happier with Dan Harris Are You Overcomplicating Your Life? | Kaira Jewel Lingo
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Aug 3, 2025 
In this engaging discussion, Kaira Jewel Lingo, a former monastic and current Buddhist teacher, shares her transformative journey from a communal Christian environment in Chicago to a Zen monastery in France. She delves into the philosophy of voluntary simplicity, emphasizing its relevance in a consumer-driven world. Kaira highlights how true happiness stems from meaningful relationships rather than material possessions, and urges listeners to embrace communal living and mindfulness practices as pathways to a fulfilling life.
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Kaira's Unique Life Journey
- Kaira Jewel Lingo grew up in a communal Christian community focused on social change and lived in a Nairobi slum for four years.
- She spent 15 years as a nun in the Plum Village tradition before returning to lay life and teaching Dharma independently.
Meaning of Voluntary Simplicity
- Voluntary simplicity involves rejecting material accumulation to live a life rooted in community and shared values.
- Modern culture tricks us into chasing fleeting pleasures rather than deeper serotonin-linked fulfillment through belonging.
Life in a Sharing Community
- Kaira describes communal living where income was shared and everyone received a small stipend.
- Resources were limited but deep community connection and shared responsibilities shaped her upbringing.
