๐ Slow down. Sloooooooowwww it dowwwwn.
Even in the way you read this post.
Yes, I know there’s probably so much to do and too little time to do it. And it might seem backwards, but we can actually go further by going slower.
By taking some moments to slow down you can more easily shift out of a stressed out survival state which either places you at risk of burning out, leads you to making errors that takes longer to address in the end, or makes it harder for you to be productive and focused.
Slowing down signals to your nervous system that you are safe, there is no danger and allows you to tune into the fact that there is more to life than a never ending to do list or a situation that may at the time seem insurmountable. Slowing down can reconnect you to what is happening right here and now, and can be the difference you need to respond rather than react.
Try these ways of slowing down:
๐ Slow your breathing. Inhale through your nose, then pause before slowly exhaling. Extending your out breath slows down and puts the break on the stress response.
๐ Slow your movements. Walk more slowly. Exaggerate your other movements with whatever you are doing, such as putting your shoes on, brushing your teeth, sending a text message, choosing from a dinner menu, eating a meal.
๐ In conversations with others, slow your thinking down by active listening. Tune in to what others are saying, see them and hear them.
๐ Create opportunities to slow things down in your routine. Would it help to set your alarm 5 minutes earlier to enjoy your morning cuppa in a slow and intentional way, rather than rushing it down as you multitask getting ready and out the door? And schedule regular regulation breaks through your day.
What are some ways you can slow down in your day, week, month, and life?
