If you are starting to feel the post-holiday blues, know that you are not alone. Every year around the third week of January, many of us experience low motivational levels due to a combination of cold winter weather, debts incurred during the holidays and the realization that we might already be breaking our New Year’s resolutions. This could add to the stress we are already experiencing due to the pandemic, which is why now more than ever it’s important to remember to be kind to ourselves and that it’s okay to take things slow. Good things – like achieving goals and New Year’s resolutions – take time; they don’t magically change just because the calendar turned a page. A consistent pace is essential.
In 1999 Norwegian physicist and business consultant Geir Berthelsen founded the World Institute of Slowness, whose mission is “to slow the world down to create healthier, happier, and more productive people.” According to Berthelsen, by being more mindful of how we spend our time and by decelerating our pace, our productivity will be greater and our goals more attainable.
What Is Slow Living?
While the term might be somewhat overused lately, slow living is not about being idle but about setting intentions for a more balanced, meaningful life. Other benefits include better health, improved relationships, increased productivity and better creative moments as your best ideas usually come when you take your time!
To help you get started, here are three small but consistent habits you can implement when you need a change of pace:
1. Allow Time for Daydreaming
Set aside a few minutes to do nothing and let your mind slow down and wander. Daydreaming allows you to take a break and return with a refreshed mind that will boost your creativity and problem-solving skills.
2. Find That Work-Life Balance
Set clear boundaries on when work time ends and free time starts. Discover what recharges you and go for it. Make sure you include spending time in nature and unplugging from the noise of social media to connect with yourself and others.
3. Enjoy Small Nourishing Rituals
…like sipping a cup of tea. Ceramic artist and tea connoisseur Margit Nelleman believes that tea is intrinsically connected to the art of slow living. “I think there’s something almost inherent in the leaf that asks for you to slow down. Tea really wants to be made in small quantities and as something that you enjoy sitting down, taking the time to enjoy it. Knowing what goes into making tea and savouring that when you sit down is what makes it special as well.”
But above all, remember to be kind of yourself and to set manageable goals that can be re-evaluated and modified as needed.
Do you have any other slow living tips that have worked for you in the past? Let us know in the comments!
