slow living
I value my sense of personal peace above all else. This has meant major changes in my lifestyle. I have to give up some comforts and some opportunities, but this choice allows me to put my sense of self first. This choice allows me to put my family's needs first.
This lifestyle of “soft living” is a concept of choosing gratitude. Choosing quiet moments in the middle of a chaotic day, being deliberate with a practice for protecting time, space, and energy. It is choosing rest, stability and ease. This lifestyle is choosing movement every day and taking care of myself without falling into the trap of health trends.
Your thoughts may be: must be nice.
beach walks with coffee
But I want to create a realistic expectation. I am not perfect. I am still working on my need to live up to others expectations. Every day is not devoid of stress. It is not devoid of schedules. It is not the void of frustration.
Last week while running into the Y for swimming lessons, I yelled at my youngest, “Go! Just go! I’ll check you in, we’re already late.”
On our way out, the front desk ladies giggled and shared how much they appreciated that I’m still human. They typically see me for yoga classes, in a more calm “work space” But I’m still a mom who’s rushing to get their kids to swimming lessons on time and I yell at my kids to just get moving!
So despite my lack of perfection in my quest for slow living, I am working at this lifestyle. Most often it happens in small bursts.
I am trying to add moments I can return to day after day. Practices that enhance my state of being.
Practices you might want to weave in:
Create meaningful change in your life
Reconnect with yourself
Build clarity, confidence, and trust
Find more peace, joy, and purpose in your everyday living.
What this may look like in real life:
A walk with a mug of coffee
Lunch date with a friend
Walking barefoot in the grass
Sitting down to eat a HOT lunch
Cut flowers on the counter
Saying no to a task that can be done tomorrow
This Week’s A Door Within:
Where can I slow the life I have for 5 minutes?
Where can I create five minutes of ritual?
How can I bring a touch of beauty into my everyday life?
Where do I choose joy over efficiency?
♥ Ashley
