Slow Living

Live fast, die young. 

The quickening pace of modern life has us hustling to pursue goals, trends, and desires. Constantly exposed to other people's success, we compare and compete with ourselves, restlessly chasing illusions of happiness. Technology, social media, and consumerism are major sources of stress and distraction.

The idea of slow living is to live with intent, mindfulness, and in cadence with the natural flow, focusing on the inner self and simple pleasures in life; finding balance and contentment from stable sources of satisfaction rather than constantly chasing temporary thrills. 

Live more, do less. 

• Nature doesn't hurry, yet it's always on time. Effortlessly find peace and harmony by succumbing to the present. 
• Find meaningful work, experience nature's healing capabilities, and cultivate deep relationships with others.
• Simplify your schedule and say no to commitments that don't align with you. 
• Unplug from the distractions of technology and consumerism. Adopting slow living doesn't reject technological advancements, but calls for more mindful engagement and time away for quiet reflection.
• Practice mindfulness, however that may look like for you, where you find at least one prolonged moment in your day to pause and be fully present. Meditate, find a yoga flow, or just sit in the breeze, close your eyes, and breathe.
• Intentionally embrace less, more profoundly, and in the present. 

In other words, sit down and write a postcard.  

 

Ideas from philosophers: Marcus Aurelius, Arthur Schopenhauer, Lao Zhi, Henry Thoreau, and Epicurus.