The Transformation: Embracing Slow Living
Discovering the beauty and serenity of living a more deliberate life.
”What we’re all looking for in life…. we’re looking for good enough reasons to let our attention fully rest in the present.” ~Dr. Sam Harris
Transitioning to slow living has required nothing less than a complete overhaul of my daily routines and priorities. And it's an ongoing process that demands diligence and a renewed commitment each day.
My first responsibility has been to declutter slowly and organize my environment. Studies confirm that our living and working environments directly reflect the internal state of our minds. More clutter = more chaos.
My second goal has been to get rid of or limit unnecessary distractions. I’ve reevaluated my personal and professional commitments, dropping those that don’t align with my values or contribute to my well-being.
I’m also much better about protecting the time I set aside for my daily practices, which has helped me become more present and connected to my inner self. It allows me to follow and trust my intuition to guide me in a way that honors my needs.
I’m learning to appreciate the beauty in simple, everyday moments and find my inspiration in nature walks, creative time, mindful practices, and relationships.
I set boundaries around what I’m willing to give up in time, energy, and mental bandwidth to create the life I want to live from a place of balance and ease.
One of the most significant changes has been around my work and technology use. The do not disturb feature on my phone has become one of my favorite tools! By limiting my screen time and intentionally disconnecting from the digital world, I’ve rediscovered the joy of human connection and the natural world around me.
The fast-paced, high-stress lifestyle that many of us have grown accustomed to has affected our mental and physical health. According to the World Health Organization, stress is the leading cause of illness and disability—it's estimated that one in four adults will suffer from a mental health issue at some point in their lives.
Research shows that chronic stress can lead to a range of health problems, including cardiovascular disease, obesity, and sleep disorders. It can also weaken the immune system, making us more susceptible to illness and disease.
This is where slow living comes in. By embracing a slower, more mindful approach to life, we can reduce our stress levels, improve our health, and find greater happiness and fulfillment.
Slow living is about taking the time to appreciate the simple things in life and reducing our dependence on technology and digital devices. It's about being mindful of our thoughts, feelings, and actions and taking a step back from the fast pace of modern life.
Real connection happens in the margins—the intentional moments—where there’s substance and human effort. By taking the time to connect with our inner selves and nature, as well as tend to our relationships, we can find peace and calm in the midst of chaos.
It’s not selfish to want to understand and work on yourself. It’s also not selfish to have boundaries. This ensures that you can give from a place of assured stability versus obligation or pressure to fulfill outside demands.
In a world that prioritizes productivity and instant gratification, it's crucial to slow down and take time for self-care practices and slow living ideals. Doing so can reduce stress levels, improve your physical and mental health, and help you source greater happiness and fulfillment from within.
Connecting with ourselves and the world around us allows us to appreciate the simple things in life and prioritize what truly matters. It's essential to recognize that investing in self-care and slow living is not a luxury but a necessity for our overall well-being.
By embracing these practices, we can create a more sustainable and fulfilling way of life and ultimately contribute to a happier and healthier society.
Want to learn more about slow living? I highly recommend checking out:
Sloww | The Art of Living for Students of LIFE
I am all for slow living and embracing slowing down for the benefit of our own wellbeing and the people and world around us. Glad to have found a like-minded soul.
Thanks so much for the shoutout!