“Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.” – Lao Tzu

In today’s bustling and hyper-connected world, the concept of “slow living” has emerged as a compelling
antidote to the relentless pace of modern life. Rooted in mindfulness and intentionality, slow living
encourages individuals to savor the present moment, prioritize meaningful experiences, and cultivate a
deeper connection with themselves and the world around them. At its core, slow living is a conscious
choice to reject the constant rush and business that pervades our daily lives. It’s about embracing a more
deliberate and unhurried approach to living, where quality takes precedence over quantity and
simplicity at its core. In a society that often equates success with productivity and achievement, the art
of slow living invites us to challenge this mindset and redefine what it means to live a fulfilling life.

“Be a curator of your life. Slowly cut things out until you’re left only with what you love, with what’s
necessary, with what makes you happy.”

One of the key principles of slow living is mindfulness, which involves being fully present and engaged in
each moment. By slowing down and paying attention to the sights, sounds, and sensations of everyday
life, we can cultivate a greater sense of appreciation and gratitude for the beauty that surrounds us.
Research has shown that practicing mindfulness can lead to reduced stress levels, improved emotional
well-being, and enhanced overall quality of life. Another aspect of slow living is intentional living, or in
other words, making conscious choices that align with our values and priorities. Instead of mindlessly
consuming and accumulating more possessions, slow living encourages us to declutter our lives and
focus on what truly matters. Numerous studies have highlighted the benefits of living with less material
possessions; increased happiness, greater financial freedom, and reduced environmental impact are
some. Slow living also emphasizes the importance of self-care and self-reflection. In a fast-paced world
that often glorifies “the hustle culture”, it’s easy to neglect our own well-being in pursuit of material
success. However, slow living reminds us that taking care of ourselves is not a luxury but a necessity.
Research has shown that practicing self-care can lead to improved mental health, increased resilience,
and enhanced overall well-being.

“Slow down, you’re doing fine, you can’t be everything you wanna be before your time.”-Billy Joel, lyrics from ‘Vienna’

In essence, the art of slow living offers a compelling alternative to the hectic pace of modern life. By
embracing mindfulness, intentionality, and self-care, we can cultivate a deeper sense of fulfillment,
connection, and meaning in our lives. In a world that often feels chaotic and overwhelming, slow living
reminds us to pause, breathe, and savor the beauty of the present moment. As we strive to find balance
and harmony in an increasingly fast-paced world, perhaps the greatest gift we can give ourselves is the
gift of slow living.

Written by: Rtr. Thakshila Ellawala

Graphic design by: Rtr. Sathmi Dinanja