A slower approach to everyday life
While a pandemic may have forced many of us to slow down our lives, the concept of slow living isn’t as new as one would think. Addressing the issue of rushed modern life, let’s first talk about what slow living is not. It’s not about turning everything into slow motion or shutting down. Slow living revolves around the idea of taking a strategic step back to open up possibilities that are available but we haven’t considered before.
Let’s put it into perspective.
Imagine taking a whole day off to pursue a chocolate cake recipe you’ve been dying to try. Now you know it’s time consuming yet you allow yourself the freedom to let the process flow organically. The satisfaction produced in the end is like no other. While this example may not work for many, trust us, slow living is way more than baking a cake, a simple moment to bask in the glow of the sun is also enough.
But why slow?
The concept is simple. Because we’re too busy going fast. A culture known as “hustle culture” doesn’t have time for those who stop and smell the roses. The urge to stay connected 24 hours seven days a week is far greater than a single moment spent living slow. But the idea of slow living is more of a mindset. To focus on the quality instead of the quantity, to be in the present instead of running towards a future, and to do everything as great as possible instead of as fast as possible.
What are the cornerstones of living slow?
While going fast may have its perks, having an understanding of when to take a moment and pump the brakes is what makes slow living a profound idea. It helps you redefine your relationship with everything, but one of the cornerstones is your relationship with technology. Knowing when to put a stop to your screen time and allowing yourself room to look at things other than your phone or tablet screen lets you have a healthier, more balanced and happier relationship with technology.
Another cornerstone of slow living is letting go of the fear of missing out. And instead, focusing on one thing at a time, pursuing it with the utmost dedication. This also allows you the strength to say no to things that you don’t think will bring you growth. Ask yourself, “Is this really an important task right now?” and act upon it depending on your answer.
Should you practice slow living?
It’s something to say when so many people are turning away from their fast-paced life to adapt slow living practices into their lives. The idea of chasing a future without living in the present doesn’t seem so appetising anymore. Rather, slow living allows people to expand their perspective of the now, from how you eat your meals to the way you spend your free time.
Some tips of how you can incorporate slow living into your life:
- Make an effort to gather your family while eating dinner.
- Avoid using gadgets when you’re spending quality time with the close circle.
- Look for an actual hobby instead of calling staring at a screen a hobby.
- Embrace boredom once in a while, there’s a certain charm in having nothing to do.
