Slow living is the new buzz word. I think as the pandemic has slowly fizzled on, so has the idea of a slow living movement. What in the beginning was a great way to help us slow down, has turned into a harsh push and pull of CEO’s demanding better employees and those amazing employees striving to remove their personalities from their work.
There is a lot more to the concept of slow living outside of removing yourself from your work but you get what I mean.
That year created the beginning of a large cultural shift, and though things in the media are feeling a little stagnant when it comes to embracing this slower life (at least in my perspective), there are those of us still yearning, learning, and thriving in this newfound space.
Join me in learning how to define slow living and incorporate some new practices in your life if you feel called to it.
What is Slow Living?
Slow living can be mistaken for a lot of other similar movements, minimalism and simple living are the first that come to mind.
Slow living is more about the balance of life, where your personal energy is entering and leaving your body and if that natural flow feels good.
The slow living movement can be seen as a way to find friction in your life. Finding ways to achieve balance between the things you need to do versus the things you want to do. It’s all about making sure your own cup is full before pouring yourself into others, whether that be in relationships, work, or otherwise.
How to Get Started with Slow Living
There is no guidebook. (I mean, there are, but go with me here…) The great thing about slow living is it looks different for every single person. For me, it was leaving my job and sort of falling into this lifestyle that I’ve been enjoying like crazy. It has helped me re-prioritize my life, and find emphasis on the things that really matter to me.
For you, this is going to look wildly different from what my journey has been. You may decide you have the means to quit your fast-paced and over exhilarating job. You may decide to stay but assess what sort of input you give to it. Remember, a job is an exchange for your time & experience for money, and nothing more! No matter what your title is.
Here are some ideas on how to get started implementing slower actions into your daily life:
- Wake up 15 minutes earlier to have a slower morning routine
- Taking a leisurely walk in the afternoon
- Consciously avoid fast foods
- Meditate
- Stretch
- Pick up a hobby (can I recommend knitting, cross stitching, or sewing so we can be besties??)
- Apply digital minimalism to your life
- Don’t be afraid to say no
- Remember business is a choice
- Start making small shifts to your perspective
Are there any practices here you can see yourself implementing to help better regulate the flow of your energy? I’d love to hear what is calling to you in the comments below!
