So, what is slow living? For some it’s a lifestyle choice which affects every decision but for most of us, it is all about making small changes which help us to decelerate the pace of modern life.

Essentially, living slowly means allowing yourself the time to enjoy all the little things and do everything as well as possible rather than as fast as possible.

Some people define Slow Living as simply making more time for self-care. Others define it as stepping away from ‘traditional’ goals – such as full-time employment or mainstream schooling – in pursuit of a slower lifestyle.

However you choose to define Slow Living, there are some core principles that tie it together. For example, breathing, self-care, and prioritising relationships.

It’s not always easy to slow down or push ‘pause’ on commitments, but sprinkling some Slow Living principles throughout your daily life can help you feel calmer, especially when the world feels chaotic.

Here are 5 tips to slow down and enjoy the moment that you’re living in.

1. Unplug

In a world that is so connected and always available, it’s easy to be distracted. We are constantly connected to our devices, available at the touch of a button at any given moment. Unplugging regularly and not being open to all of the distractions our modern connectivity brings can really open up new avenues in your life.

When you unplug, completely unplug, you get the chance to sit down and enjoy what’s around you. You’re not distracted by your Instagram notification, or the sound of your TV. You can just enjoy your common, everyday surroundings and breathe.

2. Turn Routine into Ritual

We have things we do, mindlessly, every day. We shower, dress, make breakfast, let the dog out, and a dozen other things. Every single day. So, instead of them just being mindless routine activities slow down and really focus on what you’re doing. Pay attention to the smell of your shampoo. The way your socks feel against your skin when you pull them on. How wonderful the 2 simple slices of toast smell. The sound the door makes when you open it for the dog. Anything you do on a routine basis can certainly become ritual.

You only need to slow down and mindfully do whatever it is you’re doing. Even one of your morning or night time routines done mindfully can change the whole rhythm of your day (or night).

3. Be more organic and sustainable with your food

Growing your own food can help teaching you patience and also, it tastes good! You are in control of how your food is grown. Having a garden will allow you to approach your meals with more purpose: you have to use what you grow. In a way, it’s respecting your time and the timing of mother nature. If you can’t grow your own food, taking the time to research, meal plan, and buy more organic food will be nourishing for your body. Also not wasting food helps you be more deliberate about your day. You’ll find yourself more appreciative for all you have.

4. Taking time to connect with loved ones

Part of slow living is making sure that your physical and emotional connections with others are strengthened. Do this not by texting someone, but by calling or visiting face to face. There’s a beauty in connecting with someone who is in the same room. You will find yourself more at ease and developing friendships and relationships outside of the standard texting culture of today.

5. Just Be Present

No phones, no cameras, no distractions. We love to capture memories. Especially in today’s world. But the time we take to capture those memories takes away from actually making the memory itself. Take a photo at the beginning to capture the moment, and then let all of those distractions go. Be in the moment. Nothing can capture the memory you’re making like your mind. Allow it by being present in the moment instead of being distracted by creating a photo.

The bottom line is.

Many of us wait for a vacation before we decide to take it slower—and even then we become busy in our heads or filling up our days with activities.

The truth is, learning to take breaks takes practice. And it's not just about learning to engage in slow living just because someone else says it's good. It's about having the space and time to engage fully with life and the people who matter while recharging you for all the work that you do.

Disclaimer: Images via Pinterest. If you are the owners of these images and wish them to be removed form this article. Please let us know.