Site Loader
Picture of a woman laying on the grass, surrounded by daisies. She is wearing a white dress and is smiling. She feels peace and she has learned to slow down and improve her life.

If life is too hectic right now, it’s time to slow down a little…

In our post-COVID era, it seems that we are starting to see the negative effects of productivity and hustle culture. After being forced to slow down, spend time at home and distract ourselves for days on end, we have realised that there is more to life than working constantly, chasing goals (and people) forever and living for the next milestone.

I personally have started slowing down, shifting my lifestyle to make more time for healing, for looking after myself, and for peace. If you would like to embrace the slow-living lifestyle, here are some tips you should implement in your daily life:

1. Read for 30 minutes every day

Many of us have lost the habit of reading because of the instant gratification of videos and social media content. However, reading (before bed or on a short break during the day) can help improve your focus, give you some restful quiet time, and reduce stress. So make sure to pick up a book at least thirty minutes a day!
If you want more tips on how to read regularly, check out this very useful post.

2. Delete apps on your phone that you don’t use or need anymore

Our phones can be a big source of stress and procrastination. I sometimes feel overwhelmed just looking through my phone at online content, and thinking about how much time I spend browsing – time that I could spend reading, learning, or simply resting. If that happens to you, it’s time for a digital detox. Deleting ‘problematic’ apps (apps that are time-consuming and sources of stress) as well as apps that you don’t use anymore will make you feel more organised in your little digital world.
If you want to read more tips about managing stress and anxiety, read this blog post!

3. Take walks in nature regularly, even when it’s cold

I often talk about the power of nature on my Instagram, where I share a lot of cottagecore-inspired, slow-living-inspired content. It seems to be true for everyone I talk to on there: nature can help us heal, soothe our sorrows and live life and a slower pace. Taking walks outside or sitting in a park with a book can really make you feel better. During the week days, you can go on a walk at lunch time, or after work; at the weekend you can go to the nearest forest or big park and get lost there for a few hours. Nothing better to recharge!

4. Try your hand at a craft hobby (pottery, knitting, painting, card-making, drawing…)

Before we get into this one, let’s set one thing straight: I don’t believe there are ‘creative’ and ‘non-creative’ people, or ‘crafty people’ and ‘non-crafty people’. Everyone can learn how to use their hands creatively and find a hobby they enjoy. From decorative hobbies such as pottery, knitting, sewing to art-related hobbies such as drawing, painting in numbers or learning to play an instrument, there truly is something for everyone!
And remember, you don’t need to be a pro at something to enjoy it. Find a crafty hobby that will get you away from screens in your free time.

5. Say no or cancel plans when you need to rest

Because of COVID, it seems like we’re only getting our lives back just now. We’re tempted to make big changes, set ourselves new goals, go on trips and make plans all the time – which is great, unless it starts affecting our mental and body health. If you start feeling overwhelmed by your social life, maybe it’s time to say no or cancel some plans. Saying yes to everything risks turning these positive, enriching social experiences into chores or overwhelming moments. To avoid this, take some time for yourself every week away from the noise and the crowds.
Here are some more tips to help you when you feel to overwhelmed in your day-to-day life.

What are some slow-living habits you would like to take up in your daily life?

Hi there! I'm Julia.

About Me

28 years old, based in Paris, France. I'm a primary school teacher by day, blogger and creator the rest of the time! I love coffee, exploring pretty places, and helping you grow through self-care and positivity. Happy to meet you!