I am loving my orange toenails and fingernails, having just returned from a relaxing mani-pedi this morning.
An hour sitting in a comfortable chair, simply enjoying the tingling foot massage and the pampering.
Taking it slow and easy which suits me just fine.
I love to curl up on the couch and finish a crossword puzzle or read a good book.
Sleep in or go for a leisurely walk.
Linger over a home-cooked meal by candlelight with pleasant conversation.
Turns out I am riding a wave, a trend, a new movement called “slow living”.
This slow living movement is a response to the frenetic pace we experience in this fast-moving world of ours.
Slow living is an intentional approach to life that emphasizes mindfulness and simplicity. It is in contrast to the hectic speed of modern existence. Embracing slow living means focusing on what truly matters and forcing us to be still.
To be present in the moment.
To appreciate and find joy in the simple pleasures of life.
Here are some suggestions as to how you might embrace this slower way of living.
Although, I mentioned I love to sleep in, you might try getting up earlier and enjoy the quiet and solitude of the morning without distractions. Savour that cup of coffee. Enjoy the sunrise. Now for me that is early, but worth it.
Take a walk in nature. Recently I joined two girlfriends at the Delta Watershed Park. We were not simply walking in the woods; rather we were “forest bathing”. Immersing ourselves in the beauty and quiet of nature. Good for lowering blood pressure.
On a recent family reunion to Salmon Lake on the Douglas ranch, we stayed in a rustic cabin overlooking the lake. There was no Wi-Fi so we were not connected for three days which was blissful.
All we could hear was the haunting, plaintive call of the loon.
Speaking of quiet, embrace the silence. Turn off the TV and the radio. Disconnect from your computer, phone and social media so you are not distracted by noise.
Be still and contemplative which evokes a sense of peace. Self-reflection is good for the soul.
Learn the art of true conversation which includes meaningful conversations with people you care about. I am not talking about texting or small talk. I am referring to inspiring conversation about things that matter.
Lastly, learn to cook from scratch. Actually, slow living started as a food movement in Italy as Italians resisted the introduction of fast food into their culture.
Slow cooking goes naturally together with nutritious, healthy choices and leisurely pace of eating as well as laughter and conversation around the dinner table.
This slow living movement is really catching on as there is now “slow fashion” and “slow spending”.
The former includes buying clothes which are considered sustainable and ecologically friendly and sourced from ethical manufacturers. It is a direct response to the harmful impact of fast fashion on the environment and garment workers. It is advocating making kinder choices for people and the planet.
Slow spending also involves a commitment to sustainability by promoting conscious consumption. Buy only what you need. By choosing quality over quantity and supporting local and ethical practices, we can contribute to a more balanced and harmonious relationship with the environment.
Ultimately, the art of slow living is about finding a rhythm that aligns with our values and priorities. It’s a conscious choice to live more fully, appreciating each moment and making space for what truly enriches our lives.
Like taking an afternoon nap!
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