20 Tips to Slow Down

Stop for just a moment and consider this question: How would you describe the pace of your life? 

Fast. Hurried. Chaotic. Supersonic. A Total Whir. 

Manageable. Fine. Routine. 

Many of us are operating at a tempo that does not allow for much reflection, silence, rest, or… boredom. Those things may even feel completely undesirable or foreign! This unrelenting tempo has a resounding and deep effect on our lives; our sense of self, our families, our communities…are all affected.

There is a growing ‘slow living’ movement that has given these lifestyle conversations a place to exist. Read on for some practical tips for slowing down this season.

Maybe you’re already familiar with the idea of slow living? Maybe you’ve heard the term before? How would you define a ‘slow life?’

Does it have a positive and desirous connotation to you, or does it evoke a scary or boring and lifeless existence? 

We think it can be spoken about with emphasis on many different facets and with many different perspectives, and the way it can apply to an individual’s life is equally unique! We are all wired differently, and are all stimulated and/or overwhelmed by different things. But to get this important conversation started, we’d like to offer a basic definition of this simple but deep practice of ‘slow living.’ Take some time to consider this principle. 

‘Slow living’ is a lifestyle, a practice, an artform. It prioritizes intentionality, mindfulness, and a connection to the present moment – allowing for a deeper appreciation of life’s simple pleasures. It involves deliberately slowing down the pace of daily activities to cultivate a sense of peace, balance, and fulfillment.

To help visualize what this principle can look like in practice, we have created a list of 20 things that can deliberately slow your daily tempo and encourage connection and balance. Consider the following list and maybe select a list item (or two or three!) to thoughtfully implement into your life in the coming month. 

Each of these practices encourages a mindful approach to daily life, helping to slow down and find beauty in the simple, imperfect, and transient moments.

20 Ways to Slow Down

Conscious Consumption

1. Morning Tea or Coffee Ritual: Begin the day with a mindful tea ceremony, savoring each sip.
2. Mindful Eating:Choose one meal each day to eat deliberately, appreciating the flavors and textures of each bite.
3. Simplicity in Decor: Embrace minimalism in your living space, allowing room for tranquility and calm. Instead of shopping online, see what could be utilized from your home, or seek out a second-hand or handmade item.
4. Handmade Gifts: Create or shop for a handmade gift for someone else, infusing it with personal meaning and care. (Shop a Made Market event near you!)
5. Vintage Shopping: Embrace the charm of second-hand and vintage items, recognizing and appreciating their history and uniqueness.

Nature, Mindfulness & Movement

6. Observing Weather: Spend time simply observing and experiencing the weather, noticing the beauty in rain, sun, wind, and snow.
7. Nature Walks: Take daily walks in nature, witnessing the changing seasons and the beauty of impermanence.
8. Gardening: Tend to a garden, cultivating a connection with the earth and the cycles of growth and decay.
9. Yoga: Practice yoga or gentle stretching, connecting with your body in a mindful way.
10. Mindful Breathing: Practice mindful breathing exercises throughout the day to center and calm yourself.

Connection

11. Meditation: Practice daily meditation, focusing on your breath and the present moment.
12. Journaling: Keep a journal, reflecting on the day’s experiences and emotions.
13. Reading: Pick up and read a physical book, savoring the tactile experience and time away from screens.
14. Handwritten Notes, Postcards, Letters: Write a letter by hand to a loved one, embracing the imperfections and personal touch.

Engaging The Senses

15. Unplugging: Designate times to disconnect from digital devices, creating space for quiet and reflection.
16. Home-cooked Meals: Cook a meal from scratch, enjoying the process as much as the result.
17. Listening to Music: Listen to music mindfully, without multitasking, letting the sounds wash over you.
18. Scented Candles: Light scented candles or incense, allowing the aroma to create a calming atmosphere.

Creativity

19. Sketching: Carry a sketchbook and draw whatever catches your eye, appreciating the imperfect beauty of everyday objects.
20. Pottery Making / Crafts: Engage in pottery or other crafts that involve working with your hands, celebrating the unique imperfections. Find a local workshop taught by an artisan – pottery, origami, floral arranging etc.

There may be an item or two in this list that you is already incorporated into your daily life. If so, what a wonderful thing! Savor that practice and maintain that rhythm in your life.

Slow living is a practice that is near and dear to the hearts of the Made Market team. We have made it our mission to help communities have greater access to quality handmade goods and slow fashion items. Conscious consumption is a thing of beauty 🙂 

Shop one of our markets this summer! Find our market calendar here.

See you there!