How I am Embracing the Idea of Slow Living in the New Year

For many years, busy life was the only acceptable way to be. The truth is that slow living is not only a trendy idea, but it is also an important change that many people are changing in their everyday lives and routines. Here are a few ways that I am embracing the idea of slow living in the new year!

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Getting Outside as Much as I Can

One of the biggest ideas behind slow living is to get outside and connect with the world around you. Right now it may be tough because of weather and social restrictions, but there are still plenty of ways to do it. One of the easiest ways is to simply sit outside for a few minutes a day on your porch or balcony.

If you are able to, try going for a walk. We live in a rural area so we can easily walk around without running into anyone. If you have a pet, you can also take them to a park for some exercise and fresh air.

Taking Time to Journal and Meditate Daily

Honestly, how many times can I emphasize the importance of journaling and meditation? Well, I’m doing it again! My mental health and anxiety are things that I struggle with quite frequently. Being someone who struggles with expressing her feelings, journaling has been the best way to help me clear my mind and reduce my anxiety.

Meditation is something that I do each night before bed. It helps me slow my brain down which I think is an essential part of slow living. I find that I get better rest and wake up ready to go. Youtube is my favorite place to find meditations that cater to what I feel like I am needing at any moment.

Expanding My Cooking Skills

For about the past year, cooking has been something that I absolutely love to do. I pretty much had no experience cooking meals for myself or anyone else. Dedicating the time to figuring out what I like to cook and even how to cook has been incredibly rewarding. Being able to make delicious food for Will and my friends and family is so much fun.

Typically when I cook I make it a whole event. I will have my drink of choice for the day, turn on some music I love, and get in the zone. I purchased an Instant Pot last year and it is so easy to make great meals, but I have been into traditional cooking lately. Also, if you follow me on Instagram, then you may know about my bread baking journey!

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Having Electronic-Free Moments

Coming from a blogger and freelance writer, this is kind of funny. I honestly do enjoy getting away from my computer, phone, or even my TV for a little while each day. It is so easy for us to just zone out in front of an electronic device. Part of slow living is really being in each moment of your life, so try to step away from the electronics!

We like to have dinner at our table and just talk to each other about our days. I also think a nice hot bath can be a great time just to take in what you are doing. If you cannot get away from electronics for a long period of time, try to create a routine where you have electronics, but you also have a few short times per day where you don’t have your phone.

Putting Myself Fully Into What I Am Doing

For about the past year and a half, I have been having pretty bad panic attacks. They have made me afraid to do things I have done my entire life, and there is one thing I noticed about them. I feel disconnected or not present in the moment. In 2021 I have been truly living in each moment.

Asking myself how I feel about a situation, conscious breathing exercises, and doing things that require my attention or even touch have really changed how I am able to handle anxiety over the past few months. I cannot recommend just doing real things in your life enough.

Connecting with Loved Ones

The past year has been so weird for a lot of us. We are just starting at screens instead of having real connections with others. If you are lucky enough to live with your family or even a pet, cherish those moments. Check in to see how they are doing, ask if they need help with anything.

Even if you cannot really talk with anyone, there are still ways that you can connect with others. Try writing an actual letter and sending it in the post. If you are able to drive-by and wave at someone, that may also be an easy way to get out of your own head and into the real world.

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Have you thought about focusing more on slow living?