How To Start Slow Living.
Slow living is all about intentionally slowing down the pace of life to enjoy it more fully. It’s about being present, consuming consciously, and making choices that prioritise well-being over productivity.
Despite this utopian description, most of us live like this: Wake up to an alarm after not getting enough sleep, rush through breakfast, juggle work and family responsibilities, and try to squeeze in some exercise. When we finally collapse into bed, it feels like we’ve been running a marathon all day.
This is the reality for many of us living in a world that values speed and productivity over well-being.
In our fast-paced world, 75% of adults report experiencing moderate to high stress. Most of us are constantly busy, and 50% feel we don’t have enough time to do everything we need to do.
I was one of these statistics. Working full-time or part-time for the best part of the last 38 years, whether as a marketing professional or a mother of two children, I was always feeling tired, overwhelmed, often sick, and burnt out.
I was forced to slow down this year when I was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer, which shocked me into stopping and taking stock of my overactive lifestyle.
It was only when I started researching the link between stress and cancer that I realised my lifestyle was inadvertently contributing to my ill health. And I’m not alone.
The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare shows a frightening 134% increase in bowel cancer among those aged 20 to 34 in the past 18 years.
There has been a 32% rise among those in their 40s. Experts are not sure of the root cause and say that it is a combination of poor diet, lack of exercise, and genetics.
In my case, I am sure that my overly busy life contributed to not taking care of myself as well as I could.
I grabbed anything to eat on the go and often skipped meals in favor of coffee. I did not exercise regularly, worked late into the night, and enjoyed a wine or two most evenings.
The Modern Life Crisis
The continuous hustle affects not only our health but also our happiness and fulfilment. Only 25% of people feel their lives are meaningful, and over 80% of workers feel stressed on the job.
When stress becomes a chronic part of our lives, it erodes our ability to be happy, healthy, and balanced. We feel overwhelmed, time-poor, and stuck, often leading to physical symptoms like headaches and chronic pain, as reported by 70% of adults.
When we are busy, we do not tune into our bodies and possibly ignore health issues that need attention.
Everything from gut and bowel issues to arthritic pain, skin problems, hair loss, and catching colds and viruses easily are all signs that we need to slow down and focus on our health and well-being.
Chronic stress leads to prolonged activation of the body's stress response, resulting in elevated levels of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones can suppress the immune system, promote inflammation, and contribute to cellular damage.
When our immune system is weakened, our body’s ability to detect and destroy cancer cells is also reduced. This is called inflammation.
When we are stressed, we are also more likely to smoke, drink more alcohol, eat less fruit and vegetables, sleep poorly, and exercise less often.
Enter slow living: The antidote to modern life
So, what if there was a way to counteract this terrifying reality?
Slow living can seem like a radical shift and, some would argue, a privilege. How can we slow down when the cost of living is so high right now? We need to pay the bills and get food on the table, but really it is a return to a more natural way of life.
The hashtag #SlowLiving has over 3.5 million posts on Instagram, suggesting a significant online community focused on this lifestyle.
Since the pandemic, a survey by Harris Poll in 2020 indicated that 71% of respondents want to embrace a slower pace of life post-pandemic, showcasing a shift in priorities toward slow living practices.
If this sounds overwhelmingly impossible for you, start small with these tips.
Minimalism
Less is more. By reducing clutter and simplifying your life, you create more space for what truly matters.
Do Less
Focus on fewer tasks, but do them well. This reduces stress and increases satisfaction.
Be Present
Engage fully in each moment. Whether it’s eating a meal or spending time with loved ones, being present enhances the experience.
Consume Consciously
Be mindful of what you consume, from food to media. Choose quality over quantity and opt for sustainable options.
Be More Intentional
Make deliberate choices that align with your values and goals. This brings more meaning and purpose to your life.
Reject Hustle Culture
Value rest and leisure as much as work. Recognise that constant busyness is not a badge of honor but a pathway to burnout.
Make Healthy Choices
Prioritise your physical and mental health through activities like regular exercise, adequate sleep, and mindfulness practices.
Seven steps to slow living for beginners
Ready to slow down? Here are some easy, achievable steps to get you started:
Declutter Your Space: Start with one room or even one drawer. Remove items you don’t need or love. This simple act can create a sense of calm.
Single-task: Instead of multitasking, focus on one task at a time. This increases productivity and reduces stress.
Practice Mindful Eating: Slow down during meals. Savor each bite and appreciate the flavors. This can also help with better digestion and reduce overeating.
Limit Screen Time: Set boundaries for phone and computer use, especially before bed. This can improve sleep quality and reduce stress.
Spend Time in Nature: Even a short walk in the park can lower stress levels and improve your mood.
Schedule Downtime: Make time for relaxation and hobbies. This is essential for recharging your mind and body.
Create a Morning Routine: Start your day with calm and intention. This could include activities like meditation, gentle stretching, or reading.
The transformative benefits of slow living
Embracing slow living can be transformative. Here’s what you can look forward to:
A Deep and Enriching Sense of Joy and Fulfillment: Focusing on what truly matters can help you find more joy and meaning in everyday moments.
Release the FOMO: Embrace the JOMO! You’ll realize that you don’t need to do everything or be everywhere to live a fulfilling life.
Financial Savings: Spending less on unnecessary things leaves more room for experiences and savings.
Greater Sense of Calm and Mental Well-being: Reduced stress and a more balanced lifestyle lead to better mental health.
Freedom from Guilt and Shame Over Doing Nothing: You’ll learn to value rest and see it as a necessary part of life.
Love for Daily Rituals: Simple daily activities become cherished rituals, bringing more satisfaction and joy.
By embracing slow living, you can reclaim your happiness, health, and balance. It’s not about doing less for the sake of it, but about doing what matters more meaningfully. Start small, and you’ll soon see the profound impact this lifestyle can have on your well-being.
