Please note that this blog is the second part of a series in which we discuss the importance of slowing down. If you’ve not already done so, we suggest that you read the first part, as it will provide a list of reasons why you should slow down. Please click here to view that post: [Link]
What are some tools/methods to help me slow down?
Now that we have provided you with some reasons why you should consider slowing down, we’d like to discuss some ways to help you accomplish it. Before continuing, we want to stress that this is a process that is very subjective. By trying different tools and methods, you will be able to find what works best—and then implement it into your life.
The first method we’d like to suggest is not only one of the most effective tools, but also one of the most challenging. Disconnecting from the numerous forms of electronic stimuli in our lives is an extremely helpful way to start slowing down. Turning your smartphone off (or on silent), shutting off your television, and powering down your computer (or tablet) will all help to eliminate a lot of distraction and noise. Quite often we don’t even realize how bombarded we are by all these electronics. It isn’t until we shut them all down that we can gain back some peace and quiet. Interestingly, when some people first attempt to use this tool, they find themselves wondering what to do with this “extra” time. They have become accustomed to being electronically distracted. This creates a wonderful opportunity to slow down and look at your life—and give thought to how you can live more fully in the present moment.
Multi-tasking has become a way of life for many people in the 21st century. We are now able to do many different things at once, a feat that can be very demanding and distracting. It’s time to start thinking about how multi-tasking is monopolizing our focus and energy. We are now too often focused on accomplishing as many things as possible in a limited amount of time. By limiting the number of tasks we are working on at any given moment—and preferably, implementing a single-task behavior—we can begin to slow down and place our focus on accomplishing one thing at a time. This method, of course, doesn’t always work; there are times when we must tend to more than one thing simultaneously. Our suggestion is to be more aware of your actions and how many tasks you’re handling at any given time.
Another useful method to slowing down is spending time in nature. This is a terrific way to help you slow down. Nature is the best example of living life in the present moment. You won’t see trees, flowers, birds, or any wild life rushing around trying to multi-task. There’s no chance of being bombarded by any electronic distractions (unless you bring your electronics with you). Being in nature allows you to be one with life; it affords you the opportunity to slow down and let go of the many constraints of modern life. You can go for a walk in the park or a hike on a mountain. You can spend 30 minutes walking around a pond or a few days camping outside. Whatever you choose to do, we suggest that you leave behind your tasks, schedules and electronics.
So many people rush while eating—something that can cause digestive issues and also detract from truly enjoying food and life. By eating more slowly and savoring the food, you allow your body to be better prepared for digestion, while also being more present and aware of your actions. The next time you eat, take your time; it will help you slow down.
There are a few other tools/methods that can be of help in your quest to slow down: regular meditation, being still, breathing exercises, yoga, driving slower, finding pleasure in what you’re doing in the present moment, taking breaks during the day, learning to say no (an issue for those who always say yes when asked for favors), and setting aside time for quiet reflection—both before your day starts and when it ends.
We sincerely hope that you find these blog posts helpful and that you are able to use some of the methods in an effort to slow your life down. If you have any questions or need any assistance, we are here to help.
