Slow life, Live mindfully
In a society that doesn't give us time, slow living is a concept that gives us guidance on how to get back to our real needs. By exploring our needs, we improve our daily well-being.
What is the slow life?
“Slow down,” “slow yoga,” “slow travel,” etc. These are words we've been seeing everywhere in recent years. The term “slow” invites us to slow down in a society where our lives are driven by rapid production and consumption of all kinds. We woke up quickly to go at work with take a way coffee, eat fast between office meetings, we go for a vinyasa session after our day to relieve the stress of the day, then we have a quick meal because we don’t have more energy. A daily life in which we forget our real needs and get back into the loop of doing.
The “slow” life invites us to take time to reconnect with ourselves, to slow down and harmonize with others and nature. By adopting this lifestyle, we reduce stress and improve our quality of life on a daily basis.
By moving away from the constant urgencies of our consumer society and returning to what's useful, like a walk in nature. A creative moment or any other ritual that brings joy, our lives become more radiant.
Listen to your needs by asking yourself a simple question: "What do I need?"
I invite you to take the time to return to the present moment and to what you feel. This is a real rethinking of these life choices, which has a direct impact on your physical and mental health.
How to adapt to Slow Mode?
More than seven years ago, I wondered where I was going. I didn't feel fulfilled. Between work, partying, and activity-filled weekends and holidays, I never had time to think. Yet, my body was letting me know. My life wasn't aligned with the inner vibrations of my Being.
The day I began practicing Buddhist meditation, I realized that my body and mind were in distress. I felt that my life wasn't what I wanted. I was running away from my needs for fear of failure. With the support of life coaches and therapists, I opened a door to the real me.
Returning to myself allowed me to reconnect with my senses, my needs, and my desires. Then, I shaped my existence according to my daily needs. By integrating simple and authentic values, I was able to give new meaning to my life.
Today? I divide my time between a job I love, time spent in nature, drawing, and writing. I do everything I love. It makes my existence on this earth easier and allows me to grow a little more each day through my own challenges rather than those dictated by society.
How to experience slow living?
You can choose actions in your daily life that allow you to take care of your body and mind. Reach for what deeply nourishes you, dreams you've put aside, or desires you may have had since childhood. Your inner child is a precious guide. When we were children, we had no filters, no pressure; we did whatever we loved.
Going to the market on Saturday morning connects me with my way of nourishing my body by choosing local, seasonal, and organic products. Visually, I enjoy the idea of being able to prepare delicious, vitamin-rich meals. In my free time, I dedicate my time to my passions.
Depending on the mood of my free day :
I stay in bed with a cup of matcha and a book I've had open for too long when I feel tired on the weekend.
I surf and then warm my skin in the sun after exercise when I need to burn off some energy to relieve stress.
I write or draw when I'm feeling anxious or depressed.
I take a walk in nature after a day spent on the computer to refocus.
I juggle according to my needs and my time. When I'm in the middle of a busy work season and sometimes I don't have much time for this list, I create a "slow routine." In the morning, I take the time to journaling (as in the evening), do some breathing exercises, and meditate. All for about twenty minutes. In the evening, I do a short session of yin yoga and meditation to release tension and promote quality sleep.
Learn to know yourself and identify your needs. By introducing things that make you happy into your free time, you develop a mindful attitude toward yourself. This helps you redefine your priorities and cultivate joy.
Tips and tricks for adopting a slow lifestyle every day
Adopting a more intentional and conscious lifestyle, by prioritizing activities that promote well-being and serenity, allows you to refocus on what matters.
Slow living every day :
Start the day slowly : Take the time to enjoy a good breakfast, meditate, read a book, or simply enjoy the silence before starting the day.
Cook with pleasure : Choose fresh, seasonal products and take the time to prepare your meals carefully, savoring each step of the preparation process.
Disconnect from screens : Limit the time spent in front of screens (phone, computer, television) and favor more hands-on or outdoor activities.
Focus on one task at a time : Avoid multitasking and concentrate fully on one activity, whether it's work, reading, or a leisure activity.
Practice slow fashion : Prioritize quality over quantity, buy less but better, and learn about the origin and manufacturing conditions of clothing.
Surround yourself with nature : Spending time in nature, gardening, or simply observing birds or plants allows you to reconnect with the natural world and recharge your batteries.
Practice yoga or meditation : These practices help manage stress, improve concentration, and cultivate a state of inner calm.
In short, slow living in everyday life means slowing down to savor each moment by cultivating well-being, being more mindful by making thoughtful choices, and giving more meaning to your life by finding a balance between activity and rest.
Nasthasia ♡