Ways To Slow Down

Bini Dahal

In today's fast-paced world, our lives often revolve around activities such as work, school, and socialising. But have you ever stopped to notice that even the simplest things, like having a chat with friends, can start feeling like chores as we grow up? As the days go by, we find ourselves accumulating tasks, and this constant task-oriented approach can lead to a significant amount of stress. Consider those rushed mornings when you quickly finish your breakfast to hurry off to college or work. Over time, this hurried routine can become a habit that takes a toll on both our body and mind. It's essential for our overall well-being that we learn to take breaks and release ourselves from this perpetual cycle of pressure. 

Lately, I've been experimenting with a new approach to life. I took a moment to reflect on my daily habits and came to realise that one of my most detrimental habits is not getting enough sleep. I rarely manage to get the recommended eight to nine hours of sleep each night. In an effort to address this issue, I decided to make a change. I now turn off my phone and other electronic devices two hours before bedtime. This simple adjustment has surprisingly had a significant positive impact on my life.

Disconnecting from the constant buzz of my smartphone has helped me feel more connected to the real world and has notably reduced my feelings of anxiety. The incessant notifications and prolonged screen time tend to detach us from the present reality and make us feel overwhelmed with information. Additionally, I noticed another pattern within myself — my tendency to create extensive to-do lists. This habit, while seemingly productive, often leads to feelings of being overwhelmed. It's important to recognise that this approach can contribute to stress and even burnout. Many of us experience burnout when we constantly try to juggle multiple tasks simultaneously.

A more effective strategy is to identify the most crucial tasks and address them first, giving less attention to the less important ones. Taking short breaks between tasks can significantly enhance our ability to manage our responsibilities and find enjoyment in our activities. This need for balance and well-being is especially critical for those of us living in urban areas. We often forget to engage with the natural world around us. Yet, as humans, we flourish when we connect with nature. Taking regular breaks and spending time outdoors, whether through walks or short trips, can make a substantial difference in our overall mindset.

While I may not be able to incorporate this practice as frequently as I'd like, I've found that each time I do, nature has a remarkable ability to ease my anxious thoughts and emotions. In the grand scheme of things, a bustling lifestyle isn't beneficial for anyone. It can hinder our ability to fully appreciate life's simple pleasures and be present in the moment. 

By cultivating this habit, we can alleviate stress and gain fresh perspectives on our challenges. It also enables us to break free from the notion that we constantly need to achieve more and instead focus on self-care.

Ultimately, the power to shape our lives rests in our hands. Our choices determine the direction we take. A simple decision has the potential to transform our lives positively. 

Perhaps our current approach needs reevaluation; maybe life is meant to be relished and savoured rather than rushed through. With this in mind, let's strive for a balanced and fulfilling existence.