Life Got Chaotic & Something Needed to Change
Embracing Slow Living: A Prescription for a Balanced Life - I know I need to do this, but the practice is still evolving.
In a world that seems to spin faster each day, the concept of slow living has emerged as a soothing balm for the weary soul. Over the course of the past year I have found myself reading more articles about slow living; and desperately want to get to a place where I could be intentional about weaving in some of these practices.
But in the hustle and bustle of modern life, where time is a precious commodity and the pursuit of success often takes precedence, the idea of slowing down may seem challenging to work into our routines. However, the slow living movement advocates for a deliberate shift towards a more mindful and intentional way of life. This is something I have learned, and whether I like it or not, I reached a point in my day job life where it became necessary for me to call myself out on my lack of attention to the slow living details I was reading about.
What is Slow Living?
When considering a simple definition, slow living is about savoring the present moment, cultivating meaningful connections, and appreciating the simple pleasures that often go unnoticed in the whirlwind of our daily routines. It is a conscious choice to step off the treadmill of constant busyness and reevaluate our priorities.
I don’t know about you, but while I know this to be important, admittedly I am terrible at the practice!
But in an effort to remind myself of the importance of the concept of slow living, here are a few key principles that define the essence of slow living, as well as where I know I fall short.
Mindful Presence: Slow living encourages us to be fully present in the current moment. Instead of being preoccupied with the past or anxious about the future, we learn to engage with our surroundings, appreciating the beauty in the ordinary and finding joy in the small, everyday details.
My Personal Gut Check - There are mornings when I am walking the dog and see the palm trees swaying in the sunrise that I am able to be in the moment; remembering to be grateful for that moment; and even trying to set an intention for that day. And then I get to work; receive one email, and my level of calm for the intention I had set for the day can so easily shatter. I find myself often getting frustrated with myself, and that seems counter productive.
Intentional Living: Slow living invites us to be intentional about how we spend our time and energy. This involves making choices that align with our values and contribute to our overall well-being. By decluttering our schedules and focusing on what truly matters, we create space for personal growth and fulfillment.
My Personal Gut Check - There is no other way to say this, but my values are not often shared with people that I am surrounded with throughout the day. Whether at work or sitting in traffic; I have to acknowledge that my values are not shared by the person in the next car over. If I know that, and I know it will be a thing to contend with throughout the course of the day; then why do I waste so much mental energy fretting over it?
Here’s what I do know, though. Within the last 5 years my mentality about work has shifted. While I can appreciate what I do, my why for doing it is very different than what it used to be. I know longer live to work, but I work so that I can live. Yes. Work is important. Show up. Do your best, but that is all you can do. Perhaps I am making some progress in this mindset; however, I am positive some of my co-workers would not appreciate the work so I can live sentiment.
Connection and Community: In a world dominated by virtual connections, slow living emphasizes the importance of genuine, face-to-face interactions. Building meaningful relationships and fostering a sense of community can be transformative, providing a support system that enhances the quality of our lives.
My Personal Gut Check - Face to face interactions, with people I do not know; in particular, are not fun for me. That’s not to say I ever want to be a hermit; although, I could totally do so and be just fine. I do acknowledge that I need some human interaction; and do find that even though I am a terrible introvert; a conversation with the right person or people regular, do some good things for my soul.
Mindful Consumption: Slow living extends to our consumption habits, encouraging a more mindful approach to the way we acquire and use goods. By opting for quality over quantity, embracing sustainable practices, and appreciating the value of what we already have, we contribute to a more conscious and responsible lifestyle.
My Personal Gut Check - While I am still not where I want to be with this ideal of slow living, I can’t help but acknowledge the huge step we took this year in selling our home in the RGV. Our “home” now is a 39 foot 5th wheel travel trailer. #RVLife Admittedly, there were some things we chose to put in storage, items like the still new furniture we had for the house. When we go back to a house, we’ll want to not start from scratch. But we got rid of a lot of stuff when we downsized. It was hard, but it was good for my soul to literally get rid of things that just took up space in my world.
Nature and Nourishment: Slowing down often involves reconnecting with nature and prioritizing self-care. Taking time to enjoy the outdoors, nourishing our bodies with wholesome food, and engaging in activities that promote relaxation are integral components of the slow living philosophy.
My Personal Gut Check - I know I am still only putting in about half the effort on this particular ideal. I know I need to do more. But admittedly, getting up in the morning to spend 20 minutes on the elliptical after walking the dog doesn’t really make me “feel better” about starting my day. I know it’s good for me, and that it needs to be done. But I don’t “feel better”. Aren’t I supposed too?
The Ugly Truth
As we navigate the fast-paced currents of modern life, the slow living movement serves as a gentle reminder to pause, breathe, and appreciate the richness of our existence. I am appreciative for the subtle reminders; even though the last month my mental health took a nose dive and essentially screamed at me when I wasn’t listening to the subtle reminders.
By embracing a slower, more intentional pace, I know we open ourselves up to more fulfillment, connection to others in life, and contentment that can be found in the simplicity of living in the moment. But somehow I don’t think my journey in slow living will ever be over, as I tend to have to pull myself off of detours.
Ultimately, what I have learned and reminded myself of over and over is that slow living is a conscious choice to prioritize a more balanced and meaningful life. It's about finding joy in simplicity, appreciating the present moment, and nurturing a sense of contentment. Society and our work often values speed and constant activity. However, work will not be a forever constant in my life, but me learning how to be a better me will be.
