The Importance of Slowing Down

Have you ever sat down and thought about special moments in time you may have missed because you were rushing around, or you didn’t pace yourself? I bet there were many. Or perhaps the day seemed to fly by, and everything was just a blur? Does life seem to be on “high speed” with no speed dial? It may feel that way, but the truth is, there is a “speed dial” and you own it. You are in control.

I know there are some things in life, we don’t have the luxury of pacing, like parenting, work responsibilities and school. But, for the most part, we have control over our schedules, and we also have the ability to regulate our time, as well as the pace in which we move.
Living in overdrive not only takes it toll on your physical body but also your mind. It invites stress and anxiety. You also become less productive, and more forgetful. There may even be a change in your behavior and sleep patterns.

I am sure you have often heard the phrase “Stop and smell the roses”. Well, the key word here is “stop”. If you find yourself flustered, scattered and rushed, take a step back and “breathe”. This will remind you that you are caught up in the busyness of that moment. By slowing down, or pausing for a moment, will allow you to regroup and start again. You then become more productive and able to accomplish your tasks more efficiently.

Make time to rest. I know that may sound like a foreign word, but it is clear English. If even for a few moments throughout your day, pausing will bring you into a present time. It affords you the luxury to set your priorities, and perhaps re-organize your schedule. It’s so easy to miss out on the things that matter most, moments that can never be replaced, by trying to do it all.

Learning to pace yourself takes mindfulness and practice. You may start by asking yourself, are all those seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks, months, and years being spent the best way they possible? Perhaps it’s time to make adjustments.

Time alone passes quickly enough on its own
Slow down and remember how it feels
~  Dr. Jill Lee ~

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