How to practice mindfulness while living like a minimalist

We live in a country surrounded by material things. Just in my neighborhood, if it's not an overpriced bar or restaurant, there's an endless amount of stores selling products and services, giving way to the illusion that with the right dress, facial, souvenir or anything else I purchase somehow I'll achieve a quick fix of satisfaction.But really, will I?Sure, it's good to treat yourself occasionally to things you may want, but when does the need to consume become an obsession? When does that impulse to buy become so powerful that happiness stops being about bringing peace to yourself and those around you, but instead about the next cool gadget or toy?What I'm discovering and practicing is the less I own and save money instead and the more ways I find low-cost and free ways to spend my time, the more content I am. The times I spend petting my dog, reading a good book, taking a hike, dancing, writing or laughing with friends gives me all the joy I need.So with that in mind, I put together some habits I adopted to simplify my life for what I feel most matters. I wrote this hoping my simplistic tips might inspire others. And, to gather other ideas of minimalist living. My lifestyle has freed me to discover parts of life I hold dear and empowered me to make smarter decisions with my money and time.Ultimately, my long-term financial goal is to one day ONLY work when I want. This gives me the freedom to enjoy life and not feed into a culture that seems to reward unnecessary business. But to accomplish this more mindful way of being, I must save now while I currently earn more money than I need.Here are the top ways I live below my means.     1) Thrift stores. The world has enough things taking up landfills, and as I saw in the film The True Cost, a number of underpaid and mistreated sweat shop workers making stuff. Why not instead gather furniture, clothing, books and many other household items second-hand? A better understanding on how our products are made reveals an unethical supply chain that I'd rather not support. Additionally, that money I save going used gives me the ability to put away more cash.2) Couponing. Using resources such as mailing inserts, Groupon, an Entertainment Book membership, and the coupon section of the Sunday paper, I'm able to save roughly between 10 and 40 percent. Additionally, always ask if a company offers student, military or senior citizen discounts. Some businesses give a discount just for asking. I've heard this activity is time-consuming, but it takes practice. I know exactly what products offer coupons. I do this from home, and I save hundreds each year.3) Dollar Stores. Being active duty in the Navy, I used to think shopping at the commissary was the least expensive avenue for groceries. I was wrong. I now save more than double what I was paying at other outlets. At dollar stores, I get produce, fresh herbs, cleaning supplies, cereal, bagels, beauty products and much more. Only about 15 percent of my grocery shopping is elsewhere now.4) Free or Low-Cost Activities. Why pay exorbitant gym fees when I can run outside and do weight training at home? Or take a dance class at a community college instead of a studio? Other free and low-cost options include hiking, biking, movies at home, using the library, taking public transportation, visiting museums on discount days and days lounging at the beach. All ways to enjoy the community and outdoors without going broke.These are just a few money-saving ideas that are leading to financial freedom. I'm interested in your ideas too. Post a comment here and let me know how you find ways to live frugally.