I have been always in a rush, trying to get shit done, to be efficient.
Last year when I moved to The States and I had to stop because I was not able to work I realized this, I was living in a constant rush and was getting anxious with the idea of slowing down. That was when I discovered this lifestyle, slow living.
​
Slow living has become a big trend. But its essential message is about consuming less and taking a slower approach to everyday life.
I was already consuming less, I have always hated waste, but approaching life slower was a challenge. How did I do it?
​
I guess this past year has not been slow only for me but for so many people due to the Covid. Suddenly the activities that once packed our calendars are cancelled and we’re left to reevaluate what’s really important.
You have probably learned so many things on your own during this year. Anyway, I am gonna share some tips with you and I hope you can find some of them interesting.
​
The most important advice is: There is no proper way to do things to live this lifestyle. I will give you my tips but there are no rules, THIS IS YOUR WAY. DEFINE A PURPOSE AND WHAT IS MOST IMPORTANT TO YOU. BE PRESENT.
​
Mythsbuster:
​
-
Slow living does not mean to live in slow motion.
-
Slow living is a choice, a lifestyle that gets you closer to a peaceful mind and to yourself, but not the only one.
-
Slow living is not the same as simple living, but in general combined with it. When talking about Simple, we talk about things and slow more about time.
-
Slow living is not a look/aesthetic. ​Lately I am seeing on the media how this lifestyle is related to aesthetic. This is not bad ,I love aesthetics, this is one among others pleasures in life. But you have to be careful with this because in order to keep up you lose the essence and tend to speed up and to consume.
-
Slow living is not about being or doing less but doing what is essential to you and eliminating the rest.
-
Slow living is not anti technology. There is a difference between what you really need and what they try to sell to you, and there is a difference between using them as a gadget and as a necessity.
​
How I live a slow and simple life:
-
Slow living food:
Taking the time to really enjoy the meals we make and eating mindfully. As you eat, notice the flavours, textures and aromas of every element on your plate. keep your phone away and switch Netflix off , and focus on the dish you have prepared.
-
Slow living Hobbies:
Be intentional with your leisure time. It’s not about packing your calendar and attending social functions out of a sense of obligation.
Do what really brings you joy.
-
Slow living reading:
Nowadays we have access to all the quick info we need and/or want. Getting into a book offers you a slower access to the information but allows you to understand and enjoy that information better.
-
Slow living outdoors:
I prioritize the time I spend outside, being in contact with the nature.
Go for walks, sit and feel the sun on your skin, breathe the fresh mountain or the salty air. Pay attention to the details, nature is extraordinary.
Enjoy those moments and include them in your daily routine if possible.
-
Slow living home:
Creating a space that makes you feel good is so important, I do no mean to spend tons of money to have the best house but to have an space where you want to be and makes you feel yourself.
-
Slow living mind:
The most complicated in my opinion. You need to work on mind sets, learning about mindfulness and generally feeling at home in yourself.
-
Slow living work:
This one can be tricky as well. You need to commit to put your life before work, This does not mean that you will not work and will not rush it sometimes when needed, but always remembering this is a portion of your life and not your whole life.
-
Slow living travel:
With over-tourism and the rise of Instagrammable destinations, the slow travel movement is all about slimming down your itinerary and immersing yourself in a location. Get to really enjoy the culture, the landscape, the shops, the food, etc.
-
Consuming less:
A slow and intentional life doesn’t have to mean minimalism or monk-like austerity.
But the pursuit of material possessions is endless by design – and it won’t ever bring you happiness.
Slow living means being grateful for what you have and nurturing meaningful work, deep relationships and joyful leisure.
You will still find joy in buying some things but slowing down with material possessions is a key.
BE AWARE HOW YOU SPEND YOUR TIME AND ENJOY LIFE​