Following up on my last post about my slow living journey, I wanted to share some of the practical things I’ve done to slow down and be more intentional with my time. It all started with small changes that have added up to a more peaceful, present, and less rushed daily routine.
These things that I've done took time to fit into my schedule and of course it'll look different for everyone, my hope is that it can inspire you to relook your day and incorporate these small changes in your own way, so that you to, can slow down and actually enjoy moments in your life, every day of your life.
One of the first things I changed was not reaching for my phone first thing in the morning. I used to do that every day, but I realised how much it set the tone for the rest of my day. Be it a post that upset me, news that got me emotional, a post that made me feel I had to be more and achieve more.
Anyway, we wake up early enough so that our morning routine isn’t rushed, which has helped me feel calmer and more centered as the day begins. like I said, I don’t grab my phone, and I don’t have coffee right away either, (because I noticed that it spikes my cortisol levels, which triggers my anxiety.) Instead, I have breakfast with Penelope at the table, before school. the extra time in the mornings, allows for her to take her time in choosing her clothes and getting dressed (this is a new phase for us which takes a little longer).
When Penny heads off to school, I have my first coffee of the day, and this is a time I make sure is phone-free as well. It’s become a moment where I just sit and enjoy my coffee, without distractions.
Creating a peaceful, clean and non-cluttered home environment is something I prioritise. I make time in the mornings, after school drop-off, to clean and tidy up. I focus on tidying the whole house but put focus on properly cleaning one space a day. It helps me move through the day without rushing to finish chores and juoing from wrk to chores throughout the day. The act of cleaning the space, making it smell nice, and organising it, brings me joy and calms my mind.
When there’s time throughout my day, I make sure to go for a walk and grab a takeaway coffee. This is something I truly enjoy, and it’s part of my “dopamine menu” (which I’ll share more about in another post). It’s not always possible, but I try to make time for it as much as I can.
After school, I make a point of spending quality time with Penelope as soon as she gets home, free from distractions like phones, books, or TV. I let her guide me on what she wants to do, whether it’s playing alone, in which case I sit and watch her (also without distractions), or if she wants to do something together.
If the weather permits, we go for family walks to get fresh air and move our bodies. We try to be mindful during these walks, noticing the small things that Penny points out, like flowers, bugs, or the way the light changes.
At dinnertime, I’ve simplified our meal prep. I plan dinner for 3 to 4 nights at a time so that I am not left uninspired and annoyed when it comes to thinking about what is for dinner. Then I also aim to cook meals to get the most nutrition with the least amount of time (purely because I don't enjoy cooking - I get my days where i enjoy it but for the most part, I don't so spending time on it is pointless for me). This gives us more time to sit down and enjoy a relaxed meal together. I light candles, and I often have fresh flowers on the table. For me, creating this peaceful atmosphere around dinner time helps us connect as a family and slows things down in the evening.
Bedtime has also become something I approach with more intention. In the past, bedtime felt like a chore. I’d rush through it, thinking of all the things I still needed to do. But now, I take my time. We read one story together, then chat about our day, the next day, and anything that’s on Penelope’s mind. This has become such a special time for us, and it’s where our most meaningful conversations happen. It’s not just about winding down for bed, it’s about connection.
Shower time used to be rushed too. But now (when I shower alone cos I am still mom and I’m still asked to shower with her), I make sure to take my time with having an everything shower, it helps me feel grounded.
Music plays a big part in my environment as well. I’ve noticed how much it impacts my mood, so sometimes I’ll play slower, calming music or even mindful meditation music to help create a calm atmosphere, instead of upbeat, commercial music.
These are just some of the small things I’ve incorporated into my daily routine to slow down and be more present. Each one may seem simple, but that was the point. To make these implementations practical.
Can't wait to share more about this journey with you next week! I hope you feel inspired to slow down and create beautiful moments in your day after reading this!
Liza
xoxo