As we grow older it seems like time passes us by quicker, when in reality time has not changed at all. Our lives become jam packed with responsibility and fast passed life styles that we forget to slow down and enjoy the time that we have. Mo Perry, the author of "5 Ways to Slow Down", offers suggestions to help us become more present in time.
Perry's first strategy is to "take the long view". If you are feeling like you need to speed up to try and get something accomplished, push pause and take a moment of time to assess the situation. Take a look at what is important to you, whether that be your family, meaningful work or other hobbies and make room for those experiences. Becker-Phelps suggests to take a brief look into your future, let's say your 100th birthday party, and ask how you will feel about how you spent your life. This helps to clarify your priorities and change your perspective on what is important in life. This strategy is similar to "checking in". Honoré advises to “stop at random moments throughout the day and ask yourself if you’re going too fast". If so return to your task but take your time and don't feel rushed.
"Make time by doing less". More is not always better. We spend a great deal of time checking emails, trying to plan time consuming family activities and looking for more reaction to our lives on social media. Christine Carter, PhD, recommends taking the minimum effective dose approach to activities in life. Spend minimum time checking email or social media, find a good balance between meditation and exercise and liberate yourself from other people's expectations.
The next strategy is to schedule unstructured time. This strategy involves taking a break from technology every day. Try to get into a routine where you turn off technology to unwind. This time of day could be before dinner or bed. During this time you can get into other activities that help us relax like yoga, gardening or just simply being out in nature.
Lastly, build a buffer. Plan to have more time between commitments. This will give you time to unwind between obligations but you will still be able to get your tasks accomplished. Slowing down is a difficult thing to accomplish but doing so can help reduce stress and help you enjoy your life more to the fullest! To find out more ways to keep your mind and body healthy, visit our website at www.oxborochiro.com.
Source: https://experiencelife.com/article/5-ways-to-slow-down/
