“When we focus on the real beauty of our life – and not what we think will buy us happiness – there is less room for dissatisfaction, comparison and greed. It awakens kindness for ourselves and our journey.”
Natalie walton
Slow down.
In a world full of distractions, demands, and notifications, how do we slow down and live in the moment? How do we build a pause in our decision making and take a more thoughtful approach to what we consume – from goods, social media, marketing, and opinions?
When we learn to be still, we have better clarity about what’s most important within our home life. We feel more grateful for what we have. Even the simple things can bring joy – like the way the sunshine warms your skin on a cold morning walk. Or a moment of relaxation while you pamper yourself with a daily skincare routine.
There is no right or wrong way to embrace slow living, but following a few guidelines can help you can become more conscious about the way you live your life. Not quite sure where to start? Keep scrolling for a beginner’s guide to slow living.
MAKE SUSTAINABLE CHOICES
Waste less. Millions of tons of plastic waste ends up in our landfills and oceans, causing harm to our environment. Here are some practical steps to use less plastic, help the environment, and live more sustainably:
- Opt for eco-friendly options (bamboo toothbrush, reusable cloth cotton rounds, re-fillable water bottles, use reusable bags, etc.)
- Repair what you can instead of throwing things away right away
- Keep using what you already have or consider thrifting or buying second-hand before shopping for something new
- Really think about your purchase:
- 1) Research brands (do they have sustainable practices?)
- 2) compare packaging (is there a glass option?)
- 3) buy for the long-run (will it last longer?)
CHOOSE LOCAL
It’s about connection. It’s less about proximity – when we connect with makers and small business owners, we appreciate the value of a product more. Whether its a locally made dining table or a handmade necklace, buying local benefits the community and helps you build a connection with them. Human connection is an important element of a meaningful life.
- Support small businesses
- Choose local (visit your farmers market, neighborhood grocer, etc.)
- Even if they’re not “local” to you, supporting small brands with sustainable practices benefits
LET GO
We’re addicted to our devices and we live in world where people constantly share what they’re doing. Let’s consume less media, worry less about how other’s are living their lives, and stop comparing. I know letting go isn’t easy, but hopefully these steps can help:
- Take extended breaks from social media. Delete certain apps from your phone that suck up too much time.
- Choose a weekend to go on a long hike and keep your phone on airplane mode
- Minimize notifications (go to settings and disable notifications)
- Don’t charge your phone next to your bed (how many of us are guilty of staying up late because we’re still scrolling through social media?)
- Don’t always take your phone with you. Go on walks without it. Leave if off the table when you’re eating. Put it away altogether when you’re spending time with family or loved ones.
FIND YOUR WHY
It’s about understanding what you value. Take a moment to understand the motivations behind your decisions. ‘Why’ is something we should ask about some of the smallest and biggest decisions.
- ‘Why do I want this?’
- ‘Do I need this?’
- ‘Why am I really doing this?’
- ‘Do I already have something like this in my closet?’
I love the phrase “TREAT YO’SELF” and I do enjoy buying and experiencing things I desire from time to time. But when we better understand our values and purpose, it helps us set better boundaries around what matters most. We’re less distracted, less impulsive, and we live more intentionally.
