Slow it down. Stop and pause. Take a breath. Give yourself time to think. Allow space to let it unfold. 

Fast can be beneficial, profitable, and even preferable. Fast can also be convenient and impressive. However, fast doesn’t always mean quality and depth. There are some things you need to approach with a different pace: with more time, thoughtfulness, and even with more energy. 

It is also very impossible to sustain a permanent fast pace. If you try, at some point, your body, mind, and soul will tell you that it’s time to slow down. It will even shut you down temporarily if you don’t listen. 

So, in this fast-paced world, don’t forget the power of slowing down to create space for answers, ideas, rest, creativity, and possibilities.

The necessary reframe

Slowing down does not mean you’re not serious about your success. It means you value taking time to be intentional about your ability to sustain it. It also means you understand the benefits of creating space for rest, deep thought, repair, and rejuvenation. 

Benefits of slowing down: 

In today’s fast-paced world, slowing down can feel counterintuitive. You might have internalized and glorify hustle culture, multitasking, and constant busyness as measures of success. However, research suggests that living life at a slower pace leads to better mental and physical health, improved productivity, and deeper fulfillment. 

Let’s dig into some key benefits of a slower pace: 

• Reduced stress: You reduce your stress levels and let your heart rate come down. One of the most immediate benefits of slowing down is reduced stress and creating space for your body to heal. A fast pace can also constantly drain you. Slowing down allows for better energy management.

• Better focus and outputs: You allow for better focus. You allow yourself to be present and to concentrate on the present moment, which can lead to improved productivity. Contrary to popular belief, slowing down does not mean being less productive. Studies have found that individuals who take intentional breaks and work at a sustainable pace achieve better results than those who push through exhaustion. 

• Deeper relationships: There are more opportunities to foster deeper relationships. They say it is hard to catch a moving train. Slowing down leaves space for others to join you on the journey and allows you to experience the small things. 

• Better decision-making: You create space for better decision-making by giving yourself time to think and to weigh the potential outcomes. When we rush decisions, we are more likely to make mistakes. Taking time to process information can lead to more accurate and thoughtful choices. The brain needs time to weigh options, analyze risks, and consider long-term consequences.

• More creativity: You can improve your creativity. Slowing down allows for greater creativity and innovation. A relaxed mind is more likely to generate creative solutions compared to a stressed or overly busy mind. The brain needs downtime to make new connections and spark insights. Therefore, slowing down creates space for the mind to generate new ideas and problem-solve. 

• Greater awareness: You experience the journey deeply. You allow yourself time to notice and appreciate life’s small joys and blessings. Living at a slower pace allows us to fully experience and appreciate the present moment.

• Space for renewal: You allow space for spiritual rejuvenation by making time for reflection, prayer, or meditation. Slowing down creates space for introspection, spirituality, and personal growth. There is a reason that mindfulness and meditation practices are linked with enhanced spiritual well-being and overall happiness. 

Now, what?

If you’re convinced of the benefits but unsure how to apply them, here are a few practical tips: 

• Start your morning slowly: Avoid doom scrolling immediately after waking up. Engage in a calming activity like stretching, prayer, or journaling. Make a plan for the day.
• Schedule buffer time in your day: Add some space to your morning routine. Avoid back-to-back meetings or appointments whenever possible. Give yourself time to breathe and transition between tasks. 
• Practice deep breathing: When you feel overwhelmed, pause and take slow, deep breaths. 
• Eat mindfully: Consider what you are going to eat. Don’t just grab what’s available. Take your time with meals and enjoy what’s in front of you. It really is a blessing to be able to have a meal.
• Limit multitasking: Focus on one task at a time. Check it off and then move on to the next. Pro tip: If your mind keeps racing on to other tasks, have a notebook or piece of paper handy to write down anything that comes to mind while focusing on that one task.
• Go to bed: Prioritize rest. Ensure you get enough sleep and downtime to recharge. 

Final Thoughts

Slowing down doesn’t mean doing less; it means doing things with greater intention, awareness, and quality. Research overwhelmingly supports the idea that a slower, more mindful approach to life leads to better health, stronger relationships, and greater overall fulfillment. 

So, take a deep breath, step back, and embrace the power of slowing down. Your body, mind, and soul will thank you. 

Pay it forward!

If you know someone who could benefit from a reminder to breathe and slow down, share this post with them as a loving and gentle reminder of one practical way to engage in self-care this week: slow down.