The Virtue of Simplicity: A Straight Path to God and to Better Health

"Among those who make profession of following the maxims of Christ, simplicity ought to be held in great esteem; for, among the wise of this world there is nothing more contemptible or despicable than this. Yet it is a virtue most worthy of love, because it leads us straight to the kingdom of God, and, at the same time, wins for us the affection of men; since one who is regarded as upright, sincere, and an enemy to tricks and fraud, is loved by all, even by those who only seek from morning till night to cheat and deceive others."— St. Vincent de Paul

In a world marked by complexity, constant noise, and endless choices, simplicity stands out like a quiet light in the fog. St. Vincent de Paul, who devoted his life to the poor and to Christ, reminds us that simplicity is not weakness or naivety. It is strength rooted in clarity. Simplicity aligns our lives with what truly matters: truth, virtue, and God.

Simplicity in Catholic Living

Catholicism has never been about flashy spiritual performances or complicated theological gymnastics for the sake of pride. At its core, the faith is humble, straightforward, and rooted in trust. The greatest saints were not the most intellectually gifted, but the most obedient, the most faithful, the most simple.

Simplicity in Catholic living is not about minimalism for its own sake or rejecting all that is beautiful and good. It is about ordering our lives so that the good is not drowned out by the excessive. It is about speaking the truth without manipulation, serving without seeking recognition, and living in a way that is transparent and honest.

When we overcomplicate our spiritual lives by trying to impress others with eloquent prayers or burdening ourselves with excessive spiritual routines divorced from love, we lose sight of Christ. As St. Paul reminds us, without love, even the most impressive acts are a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal (1 Cor. 13:1).

The saints show us that simplicity leads to intimacy with God. St. Thérèse of Lisieux’s “little way” of simple trust and love is one of the clearest examples. Simplicity is what allows us to pray with childlike confidence, serve others with authentic love, and repent without making excuses.

The Lie of Complexity in Fitness and Nutrition

Just as simplicity leads us to God, it also leads us toward better stewardship of our bodies. The health and fitness world is a prime example of where complexity often masquerades as wisdom.

Scroll through any fitness or nutrition feed and you will see a barrage of conflicting advice: intermittent fasting, keto, paleo, macros, detoxes, reverse dieting, carb cycling, HIIT, cold plunges, red light therapy, the list goes on. There is a temptation to believe that the more complex a strategy is, the more effective it must be. But often, complexity becomes an excuse to never start. It becomes a hiding place for pride or fear or even a form of spiritual sloth.

The truth is that most sustainable and effective approaches to health are remarkably simple.

Nutrition: Eat mostly whole foods. Prioritize protein. Limit sugar and alcohol. Drink water.Exercise: Move regularly. Lift weights a few times per week. Walk daily. Sleep enough.

That is it. No magic tricks, no need for a degree in nutritional biochemistry, no obsession with tracking every calorie forever. Just simple, consistent actions done over time.

This simplicity does not mean the journey will be easy. It requires discipline, patience, and humility. But it removes the distractions that keep us from starting or staying on the path.

Why Simple Works

Simplicity works because it is sustainable. Complexity often leads to burnout. When people try to overhaul their lives with intricate programs and perfect meal plans, they usually last a week, maybe two. But a simple plan can be followed for a lifetime.

Simplicity also fosters clarity. When your health routines are not bloated with unnecessary rules or trends, it is easier to stay focused on what matters: honoring God with your body, serving others with more energy, and living fully in the present.

And in a deeper way, simplicity in fitness and nutrition also fosters freedom. The more complicated our routines become, the more enslaved we often feel to them. But simple disciplines build habits that serve us rather than control us.

The Catholic Call to Simple Stewardship

As Catholics, our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 6:19–20) and caring for them is part of our call to holiness. But this stewardship should never become an idol. Our pursuit of health should be an ordered, peaceful, and simple offering; something that supports our vocation rather than distracts us from it.

When we approach our health with simplicity, we avoid the trap of vanity. We are not obsessing over six-pack abs or perfect macros. We are asking instead: “How can I better serve God and others with the body I have been given?”

Simplicity also allows us to integrate our physical health with our spiritual life. Going on a walk while praying the rosary. Choosing nourishing meals out of gratitude for God’s provision. Lifting weights not for ego but to be strong for the people who rely on us. All of these are simple, beautiful ways to live a more integrated Catholic life.

Simplicity Is Strength

St. Vincent de Paul knew the world would mock simplicity. It seems foolish to a world that prizes cleverness, self-promotion, and shortcuts. But to God, simplicity is a virtue that clears the clutter and leads us straight to Him.

Whether in our prayer life or in our pursuit of health, let us remember that simplicity is not about doing less for the sake of comfort. It is about doing what matters, with clarity and love.

So if you have been overwhelmed by the noise of fitness fads or discouraged by inconsistent routines, consider going back to basics. Eat real food. Move your body. Sleep. Pray. Serve. Repeat.

And above all, live simply, that you may live freely for God, for others, and for the kingdom to come.