The Importance Of Slowing Down

We’ve talked about the importance of self care and how to incorporate it into your daily routine but, what if we took self care to a whole new level by slowing down and being more present in each moment? Life is precious and we should be enjoying it, not planning it!

The holidays always seem like such a whirlwind. Months of planning and preparation and suddenly, it’s over. All the hustle, bustle and family gatherings have passed. The credit card bills start to roll in and the reality of the potential post holiday blues sets in. It’s easy to get swept up in holiday excitement and then feel kind of burnt out for the rest of January.

Being busy feels good. It makes us feel like we’re adding value to our lives and the lives of others. But to keep moving through life on autopilot; get groceries, pick up the kids, go to the gym -- it’s all very robotic. What if we slowed down? Savored every sip of coffee, felt the cold snow flakes on our warm cheeks?

When we try to multitask from dusk until dawn we’re not allowing ourselves to be fully present. We’re constantly looking ahead and asking ourselves, what next?

So how can we realistically slow down? Start with these 3 tips.

1. Do Less.

Say no when you need to. This means prioritizing what’s important. Rushing to get through your daily to-do list leads to heightened anxiety as well as intellectual and emotional unavailability. Ever catching yourself briskly walking when you’re out for a relaxing stroll? This is your brain on autopilot. Rushing when rushing isn’t necessary. Think about what is of highest priority, whether it be at work or at home, and focus on those things.

2. Disconnect. 

Social media can be taxing. One way to be more present? Switch it off. If you’re going to dinner with your friends or family, leave electronics in the car. This way you can free yourself to be fully engaged with those around you without the distraction. We don’t need to be tethered to our phones 24/7. Believe it or not the world was not in complete chaos before the invention of cellphones. By disconnecting from social media you’re not missing out, you’re opening yourself up to have a deeper connection to the things happening around you.

3. Be present.

This is a conscious practice to be present in every moment. Slow down, experience each minute and find appreciation in whatever you’re doing. Give yourself some extra time, drive slowly, eat slowly, listen to others with intention. After all, as John Lennon said, “Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans.”  

How do you slow down and appreciate the world around you? Share your tips and tricks with us!