I live at the bottom of the financial food chain in London. I find it hard to save money, I frequently run out of cash way before the end of the month. I rarely buy new clothes, and I live in a scruffy run-down house. Yet I may be one of the happiest people I know.

To save money, I walk to work, even though it's a 10 mile round journey. There is something wonderful about walking through London in the morning and watching the city gradually wake up. I'm also a lot fitter than I used to be, plus walking for a few hours a day *really* gives you time to think, and really clears your head.

I had to learn how to cook, and how to make food go further. This meant I became more creative in the kitchen. My favorite recipes were invented just by making do with what was left in the cupboard (e.g. tinned tuna, flagelot beans, natural yogurt in a pitta bread is scrummy). I stopped eating processed food, gained control over what I eat, and came to appreciate food in all it's glory. And when I do get the chance to eat out, I love and savour it.

Our house is run-down, but I live with my friends - there's always some wine on the table, and some good music on in the background. People love coming round a lot because of the good company, and because there's little to damage in the house we throw the best parties.

My point? Well I guess the art of living a stripped-down existence means you don't take things for granted, and the finer things in life are all the more enjoyable for it.

Learn more about this author, Sian Claire Owen.
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