The art of slow living
Slow living is a ‘trend’ which has been growing in popularity across the world. The movement is based upon the SLOW food acronym (Sustainable, Organic, Local and Whole), yet it has evolved into a way of life. However, the essence is often lost and instead we see perfectly curated Instagram feeds promoting an unachievable (and heavily filtered) lifestyle. I believe even the busiest of people can approach life more slowly, and in turn experience a greater sense of wellbeing and balance.
Let’s start by talking about the principles of slow living, and where to begin, top tip: not on Instagram.
Mindfulness & presence
Taking time out with restorative yoga.
Photography by Julia Sundermeyer + Tattoo by Emily Malice.
For me, if you read no further, I would encourage you to at least try this. The practice of mindfulness can be applied to any aspect of our daily lives, but it does take practice!
Start by simply setting the intention to pay more attention to the seemingly mundane or repetitive parts of your daily life. You can share this intention as a journal entry so you are more accountable.
Next, when performing a task that you do regularly, take an extra moment to witness the present moment. You might be typing away, and consciously become aware of the physical connection between your hands and your keyboard. Or maybe you are brushing your teeth, and you consciously become aware of the physical feelings you are experiencing. As this becomes easier, you might even extend this to conversations with friends, consciously witnessing the sound of their voice.
Enjoy witnessing the beauty in the mundane, or even the beauty in the busy moments!
Time-out
Just like bears who hibernate all winter, we too need time-out to recuperate our energy store. As a yoga teacher, my time-out involves movement practice, meditation and restorative rest. Ideally, you activate your parasympathetic nervous system/rest and digest.
Work out what works best for you. Is it jogging, walking, journaling, restorative yoga, a glass of wine or meditation? Make sure you choose something that enables you to forget about daily life and switch off completely. Some of us benefit from stillness, and others actually relax more from gentle movement, so don’t worry if your time-out looks different to your friends.
I highly recommend making it a daily practice. If you are short on time, try to carve out at least 5 minutes a day to take a pause. Sometimes, all we have is 5 seconds - if that’s the case; close your eyes and breathe deep for those 5 seconds.
Sri Lanka, 35mm film
Photography by Jasmine Brand-Williamson.
Conscious consumption
How much of an impact does what you consume have on the world around you? If it’s a lot, maybe you can alter your lifestyle in a small way to consume more sustainably. There are so many small ways that we can make a difference. My best advice is to be imperfect! We can’t do it all, so don’t beat yourself up when you feel like you haven’t got it right.
I’m a big foodie so this is where I focus my energy most. I love to seek out organic and local plant-based produce and cook slowly. I’m also well aware that not everyone is like me in this respect. Try utilising food-waste reduction apps (like too good to go). If you eat ready meals or takeaways - try sourcing ones with compostable or minimal packaging.
I am well aware that many conscious and eco brands are not within many people’s price range. Beware of fast-fashion brands selling items as green or eco - they’re normally not! I prefer sourcing second hand clothes, furniture and sometimes even jewellery. Depop, local vintage stores, charity shops and even marketplace are incredible for finding gems. The plus side is that everything you find will be unique!
Declutter your life
Say no more often! This has been life changing for me. Learning to say no to events, commitments and anything else you don’t need. I’m not suggesting you use this as an avoidance strategy, but as a way to simplify your life and fully enjoy the commitments you do make. You might find you will enjoy them more.
I used to think I needed an excuse to get out of stuff. It turns out, simply saying ‘no thankyou’ is enough. Look at your social, or even work calendar. I guarantee you there is space to de-clutter. Put yourself first.
The same goes for stuff - Marie Kondo is your go to for decluttering.
Remember, start small and keep going. Good luck learning to live slow!
Originally published on Yoga with Jas.
About the author
Jasmine Brand-Williamson is a Biology graduate, yoga teacher and marketer based in Glasgow, UK. She currently dedicates her free time towards exercising, cooking and meditation, and aims to encourage busy people to learn the art of slowing down and resting deeply.
