The Importance Of Embracing Slowness – A Path To Balance And Well-Being
- Brainz Magazine
- Nov 22, 2024
- 5 min read
Updated: Nov 23, 2024
Written by Aisha Saintiche, Certified Health Coach
With over fifteen years of experience in Mental Health, Accessibility and Diversity and Inclusion, Aisha has used her experience as a strategic advisor and health coach to understand the complexity and intersectionality of the mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual barriers that keep people from achieving their optimized health and wellness.
Isn’t it wild to think that we’re already approaching the end of the year. I swear I was just living my best life this summer, going to concerts, travelling, vacationing with my family and just enjoying the summer nights. And yet here we are officially 30 days away from Christmas (which just FYI is my favorite time of the year – after my birthday!).
As we knock things off our ‘to-do’ list and prepare to hopefully end this year on a high note, I am very mindful of the importance of embracing slowness to ensure balance and well-being.
Let’s be real! We live in a world that celebrates hustle and rapid results, and so slowness often gets a bad rap. We associate speed with success and productivity, while slowness is often misunderstood as laziness or inefficiency. Yet, research and age-old wisdom show that slowing down can lead to a more balanced, meaningful, and fulfilled life. Embracing slowness isn’t about giving up on goals; it’s about finding a pace that allows you to thrive while staying present in the moment.
As a reformed hustle and bustler, I used to think that “being busy” reflected my drive, tenacity, and commitment to success. But what I would learn the hard way—and the lesson that many others have learned—is that the only outcome of that mindset was exhaustion and burnout. I realized that the relentless pursuit of productivity left no room for joy, creativity, or even the clarity needed to truly excel. And so, I had to reframe my thoughts and change a preconceived notion about ‘slowing down.’
Slowing down didn’t mean that I was giving up on ambition; it meant I was creating space to thrive in a more intentional way. It allowed me to step back, reflect, and prioritize what truly mattered. When we embrace slowness, we protect ourselves from burnout by balancing effort with rest. It’s about understanding that progress doesn’t have to come at the expense of our well-being.
By slowing down, I learned to appreciate the journey rather than constantly chasing the next milestone. It’s a mindset shift that, to date, has enabled me to pursue my goals sustainably, showing up as my best self—not the drained and overwhelmed version we can all potentially become when we’re perpetually “busy.” Slowing down is a profound act of self-care and a commitment to living with intention, balance, and well-being.
Now if you are like me (and this is nothing I boast about) I sometimes like to learn the hard way. For my West Indian people, you know that good ole’ saying “dem who nah listen mus feel” – well let me save you the burnout and share some reasons why embracing slowness matters in your life!
1. Improves mental and emotional health
Rushing through life can lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout. Slowing down gives your mind and body the chance to rest and reset, reducing cortisol levels and promoting overall well-being.
2. Enhances decision-making
When you take your time, you allow yourself to process information more thoroughly. Slowness leads to thoughtful decision-making, helping you avoid mistakes that stem from impulsive actions.
3. Cultivates mindfulness
Slowing down helps you become more aware of the present moment. This mindfulness can enhance your relationships, creativity, and overall satisfaction with life.
4. Strengthens connections
When we rush, we often miss opportunities for deeper connections. Whether it’s spending quality time with loved ones or having meaningful conversations, slowness creates space for genuine engagement.
And because I also love to offer viable solutions on ways that you can begin to make those positive changes in your life, here are some tips and tricks I’ve implemented in my life to embrace slowness.
1. Start with your morning routine
Begin your day with intention. Instead of rushing out of bed and into your day, spend a few moments practicing gratitude, meditating, or simply enjoying your coffee without distractions. Also resist the temptation to scroll on social media first thing!
2. Practice single-tasking
Multitasking can make us feel busy but not productive. Focus on one task at a time and give it your full attention. You’ll likely find that you finish tasks more efficiently and with better results.
Can’t lie this is still something I am working on!
3. Set boundaries with technology
Technology often keeps us in a state of constant stimulation. Schedule "tech-free" times during your day to disconnect and recharge. Use this time to engage in hobbies, read, or enjoy nature.
Fun fact – I recently got back to reading (didn’t realize how missed reading!). While time is limited and my bed be calling me at night, I’m committed to reading a minimum of 10 pages a night. Gotta start somewhere right!)
4. Incorporate breathing exercises
When you feel overwhelmed, take a moment to focus on your breath. Deep breathing activates your parasympathetic nervous system, calming your body and mind.
5. Schedule downtime
Make rest and relaxation a priority. Whether it’s an afternoon walk, a nap, or time spent journaling, scheduling downtime ensures you have regular opportunities to slow down and reset.
6. Eat mindfully
Instead of rushing through meals, take the time to savor your food. Chew slowly, appreciate the flavors, and listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues.
7. Reframe your mindset
Shift your perception of slowness from a weakness to a strength. Remind yourself that taking your time often leads to higher-quality outcomes and a more enjoyable process.
8. Engage in reflective practices
Spend time journaling, meditating, or reflecting on your day. Reflective practices help you gain clarity, set intentions, and appreciate the progress you’re making.
Slowness is not a one-time fix but a mindset and lifestyle choice. It requires conscious effort to unlearn the belief that busyness equals worthiness. By intentionally choosing to slow down, you create room for growth, joy, and connection in ways that rushing can never achieve.
Life is not a race but a journey meant to be savored. By embracing slowness, you can find balance, rediscover what truly matters, and live a life filled with meaning and intention.
"Slowing down is not a sign of weakness but an act of strength. It’s in the stillness that we find balance, in the pause that we rediscover well-being, and in the moment that we reconnect with what truly matters."
Aisha Saintiche, Certified Health Coach
Aisha Saintiche is a certified Health Coach and the founder and owner of MetoMoi Health. With over fifteen years of experience in Mental Health, Accessibility and Diversity and Inclusion, Aisha has used her experience as a strategic advisor and health coach to understand the complexity and intersectionality of the mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual barriers that keep people from achieving their optimized health and wellness.
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