How can we appreciate the richness of life if we rush through it breathless? So many beautiful moments pass us by in the hustle and bustle of daily life. How often do we quickly eat a meal without truly savoring the taste? That we handle something half-heartedly or routinely? How do you slow down and relax more?
Tip 1: Take a break
Often, when asked ‘how are you?’, I hear people respond ‘I'm busy’. Does this sound familiar? Do you notice when you're rushing? Are your shoulders hunched or is your breathing shallow? Then it's definitely time for a breather. Recognize a restless feeling and observe how your body reacts. With proper breathing, you can release stress and relax. The deeper and calmer we breathe in, and the longer we breathe out, the slower our heart beats and the calmer we become. Consciously step out of the tension and build daily breaks into your routine.
You don't have to be constantly available. In fact, it's unnatural to always be 'on,' and it causes stress. It's like inflating tires: you can stubbornly keep cycling on flat tires, or you can stop for a moment to pump them up so it's easier afterward.
Tip 2: Don't be afraid to cut
Free yourself from unnecessary burdens and start by omitting instead of adding. By removing things from your life, you create peace and space. That's easier said than done. Make sure your personal values are clear. What do you find worthwhile to spend your time on? You can only spend your time once. This week, map out where you spend a lot of time and where you waste time. How much time do you spend daily on social media, scrolling, or zapping? Calculate how much time this is weekly, monthly, and annually. Is this okay for you, or would you have preferred to spend that time differently?
Also, notice how often you think in terms of 'must.' It sounds different when you replace 'must' with 'I choose to' or 'I want to.' See if you can sometimes let things be, ask for help, or say no to something.
Tip 3: Enjoy the moment
Often, we don't consciously pause in the moment we are living, and our thoughts are elsewhere. This way, we miss much of what is happening at that very moment. This week, try to collect three beautiful moments that you fully enjoy with complete attention. Experience everything the moment has to offer with all your senses. Feel the warmth of a cup of tea, smell the aroma of fresh rolls, hear the rustling of the trees, or savor the taste of fresh fruit. Seek out nature and experience the comforting rhythm of the seasons. After autumn and winter, nature blossoms again. Consider what you want to let go of and what you want to keep. Don't thoughtlessly rush from one to-do list to the next obligation. Allow yourself time to slow down and shift your focus to all the beauty that is already in your life.
Listen to Toon Hermans' song about 'strolling, which is vertical lounging,' and take it easy in this world of noise and hustle. Choose a slower pace more often. When you're almost out of breath, take a moment to catch it and just be.
Want to read more from Ans Tuk? With the book 'Verrijk je Kijk' (Enrich Your View), you can step away from the daily grind and reflect on how to shape your life. View it here.
