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Living in the slow lane is a philosophy that encompasses a more mindful and intentional lifestyle. Instead of rushing through life on autopilot, slower living allows you to be fully present in the moment and to enjoy the little things in life, reports The Daily Star. So take time to smell the roses, listen to chirping birds, and enjoy the sun on your face.
But when you are living in a fast-paced world, it's not easy to find the time to rest and recharge. Slower living can help you reclaim your time from mindless things – like doom scrolling on your commute or binge- watching TV – and can make you feel like you actually have more time to do the things that are important to you, according to The Good Trade. Slowing down will allow you to find more meaning in the time you commit to yourself, your relationships, and the activities that are important to you. Here are five tips to help you live a slower and better life.
Reset technology
While technology is important for your job and for your life, being connected 24/7 is not good for your physical and mental wellbeing. So even if your job requires a lot of screen time, take regular breaks during the day. Setting aside a time every day to disconnect will help you reconnect to the things that are important to you. Slower living allows you to control technology instead of being controlled by it.
Practice mindful living
Incorporate mindfulness in your life. Start your daily routine with meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises. Just a few minutes a day, suggests The Daily Star, could help reduce stress and allow you to be in the present moment.
Take breaks
Embrace slower living by resetting your time, stressed mindbodygreen. The best way to do this is to structure your day so you are not multitasking and losing momentum. Switching between many tasks and locations causes you to lose time. That’s the time you can use for yourself and the things that you love to do
Practice gratitude
Take a few minutes every day to reflect on the things you are grateful for, according to The Daily Star. You can write these down in a gratitude journal or say them out loud as positive affirmations. This could help change your focus from the things that cause stress and anxiety to the positive things you have in your life like friends, relationships, and family.
Make rest a priority
Staying well rested is the key to being physically and mentally well. The best way to do that is to prioritize sleep. But don’t leave this to chance. Start a bedtime routine by turning off electronics an hour before bed, reading before bed, take a bubble bath, or use calming aromatherapy to help you relax. Making sure that you get enough sleep is important for you to be your best.
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