Sometimes it is really hard to just slow down. Life just keeps going and you keep going with it.
I know I have had moments when I have forgotten how to slow down and not work all of the time. Society has become more and more fast-paced, creating a culture of always having to get things done, which can be overwhelming. But the more you do, the more you can struggle to learn to slow down. Keeping yourself busy can lead to not being present and increased stress.
I have sat at my computer and felt overwhelmed by all the things I want to do after working myself to exhaustion. It’s only then I realize I need to slow down because my brain starts to slow down and cannot handle everything. But now, I have learned to slow down and see the benefits of slowing down.
Why is slowing down important? Because it allows us to realize that we don’t have to be perfect and that we are human. We are going to have days when we are not productive. I used to get mad at myself for not always being productive; I would push myself to keep working even when I felt too tired.
Now, I have learned to accept that I have off days and productive days — and both of those are okay. During a year when I was living in New York, I was shocked by the culture of always running around like the rabbit from “Alice in Wonderland,” stressed about how time is running out. Living in New York made me realize that I don’t want to become that person who is always in a rush.
So what happens when you slow down?
When you begin to slow down and take your time, you’ll also start to notice things you never saw before. For example, I have walked around University of Central Florida thousands of times, but when I slow down, I notice countless new things I had never truly seen before. From beautiful flowers to a cozy seating area I did not know was there, slowing down helps you to take in your surroundings more fully. Slowing down helps you to feel less stressed and anxious.
Slowing down has the following benefits:
- It forces you to be present rather than operating on autopilot.
- It builds resilience.
- It makes you more patient with yourself and with others.
- It makes you less stressed and anxious.
- It makes you feel more relaxed.
If you don’t choose to slow down, your body can force you to slow down. For some people, it can be as extreme as developing health issues or panic attacks due to stress or anxiety. If you struggle with slowing down, here are ways to get started.
- Practice going slower with everyday tasks.
- Plan ahead.
- Do less; be okay with saying “no.”
- Make time for rest and fun activities.
- Don’t overbook yourself.
- Focus on one task at a time.
- Be present.
- Take time to clear your mind.
At first, it will not be easy and that is okay. Take your time and practice. In the end, it will be worth it.
If you have the Calm app, there is a great series on under Calm MasterClass called “The Power of Rest” by Dr. Alex Pang that you should check out to learn more about rest and slowing down.
Favorite Quote: “Slowing down is sometimes the best way to speed up.” – Mike Vance
Until next time.
Hugs, Dr. Rosie
Dr. Rosie Garcia, Licensed Psychologist, supporting and inspiring women to find acceptance, self-love and inner harmony.
