The Art of Slowing Down

Written by: Chelsie Napiza

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With the world going into an overdrive, it seems impossible to catch a break.

At school, we are given one paper to write until midnight with a bunch of quizzes the next day. And then there are your responsibilities at home-- washing the dishes, cleaning your room, organizing your closet and a lot more. Added to these things and more is the pressure to call a friend so you don’t feel like a bad one or reply back to an email from your family which has been sitting in your inbox for weeks now.

Even sleeping at night, the only rest you can take without guilt, has become difficult so you wake up the next day sluggish, heavy and more tired than ever. This is the vicious cycle you put yourself through every single day and it has to stop.

Productivity is all fun and games until you have to sacrifice your wellbeing for it. Slowing down every once in a while, taking necessary breaks and giving yourself the space to pause might help you better in the long run.

Here is a list of helpful activities you can practice everyday to slow down.

1. Breathing exercises.

2. Watching an inspirational TedX talk or listening to a feel good podcast.

3. Journaling to get all the feels out!

4. Walking outside to be surrounded with nature. (You can bring your dog with you too!)

5. Yoga, Pilates or any kind of physical activity that’s light and refreshing.

6. Lighting a scented candle or incense.

7. Making a smoothie or a snack you absolutely love.

There’s a lot more! The key is to be intentional by reminding yourself it’s time to slow down and take a break because you absolutely deserve it. Sometimes, all it takes to break free from a bad cycle is changing your perspective and doing the work.

You can do it, I believe in you!