5 Ways to embrace slow living

You wake up to the sound of your alarm (which is also your inbox, your social media feed, and your news source). You grab your phone before your first sip of coffee or tea. The commute is a blur of emails, half-thoughts, and mental to-do lists. By the time the day is over, you’re drained, scrolling mindlessly, and wondering where all the time went. Sounds familiar? You’re not alone.

We live in a world that glorifies speed—faster results, instant replies, quick meals, and productivity hacks. But at what cost? Burnout, stress, and the feeling that life is slipping through our fingers. Slow living is the antidote. It’s not about doing nothing; it’s about doing things with intention. It’s about reclaiming time, presence, and joy in everyday moments.

What is slow living, really?

Slow living is a conscious choice to step away from the culture of hustle and embrace a more mindful, intentional pace. It’s about quality over quantity, depth over speed. It’s sipping your coffee or tea instead of gulping it down. It’s reading a book without checking notifications every two minutes. It’s walking instead of rushing, cooking instead of grabbing takeout (when possible), and making space for things that truly matter.

Why slow living matters more than ever

Our modern world is built for speed, but humans? Not so much. Studies show that chronic stress leads to anxiety, depression, and even physical health issues like heart disease. The irony? Slowing down can actually make you more productive, not less. A well-rested, mindful mind is sharper, more creative, and resilient. Imagine working with focus instead of frantic multitasking—quality work in less time, with energy left for the things (and people) you love.

How to start living slower (without quitting your job and moving to the countryside)

Slow living isn’t about rejecting modern life; it’s about reshaping it. Here's how you can start:

1. Create micro-pauses in your day
Not everyone can take a month-long retreat, but you can take one deep breath before opening an email. You can step outside for five minutes of fresh air between meetings. Small pauses rewire your brain for presence.

2. Set boundaries with technology
Your phone doesn’t need to be the first and last thing you see every day. Try a “no-phone morning” or a social media-free evening. Digital detox moments help reclaim mental space.

3. Eat mindfully
Ever finished a meal without really tasting it? Slow living means savouring your food, chewing properly, and enjoying the ritual of eating rather than rushing through it.

4. Do one thing at a time
Multitasking is overrated. When you focus on one task—whether it’s writing, talking to a friend, or cooking—you experience it fully, and you’ll do it better.

5. Prioritise rest like it’s a deadline
Rest isn’t a luxury; it’s fuel. Whether it’s getting enough sleep, taking breaks, or simply allowing yourself to do nothing, it’s essential for both your wellbeing and efficiency.

The wildest (and wisest) fig of all: A life well-lived

Slow living isn’t about laziness; it’s about living with purpose. It’s about choosing presence over pressure, depth over distraction. And the best part? You don’t need to find more time—you just need to take it.

So, what’s one small way you can slow down today? Share your thoughts, and let’s make intentional living the new normal. 🍃