Embracing Slow Living: Your Essential Guide to Unplugging, Self-Care, and Finding Peace in a Hectic World

We’re currently navigating the vibrant streets of London with our family, immersing ourselves in a delightful two-week adventure. You can follow along with our daily exploits and constant updates on my Instagram page. And here’s an exciting revelation: I’m genuinely planning to take a vacation! Now, I’d be less than honest if I claimed my laptop wouldn’t make an appearance, because I am most certainly working during this trip. In fact, we’ve packed all our photography gear, ready to capture some stunning moments. Yet, despite these work commitments, my intention is to dedicate at least one full day entirely to rest and enjoyment. Perhaps I’ll check in once or twice, just to ensure no digital fires are burning, but the primary goal is to truly savor the city’s charm. We’ve been eagerly counting down the days on our British Airways calendar, and I’m particularly looking forward to that nine-hour flight – a rare window where my only responsibilities will be to eat, watch movies, and finally, deeply sleep.

If the prospect of uninterrupted sleep on an airplane is so appealing, perhaps it’s a clear sign that a genuine vacation is long overdue, wouldn’t you agree? This realization brings me directly to a topic that has occupied my thoughts for quite some time, ever since I experienced the profound impact of taking a *real* day off from work. It’s the essential practice of slowing down, embracing moments of stillness akin to savasana, and truly prioritizing authentic self-care.

The Revelation of a Real Day Off: My Journey to Unplugging

For our anniversary weekend, I made a conscious decision to take a truly liberating day OFF of work. Yes, you read that right – a full, uninterrupted day off! It had been months (a somewhat regrettable confession, I know) since I last allowed myself such a luxury. I dedicated that precious day to a deeply rejuvenating deep tissue massage, the exhilarating experience of deep-sea snorkeling, and the tranquil joy of paddleboarding and kayaking. All these activities were perfectly complemented by the most exquisite vegetarian hotel food available in Jamaica – a special shout-out to Goldeneye, you truly excel! I’m not the type of person who finds relaxation in simply lying still all day, so this active yet disconnected approach was the absolute perfect form of rejuvenation for me.

Perhaps it was because I plunged into such an intense period of activity, followed by an equally intense period of disconnection, that upon returning home, I found myself profoundly longing for another day off. This intense desire unfortunately culminated in a serious case of the Monday blues, a feeling I hadn’t experienced in a very long time. My career is something I deeply love and am incredibly passionate about, and while that passion is a wonderful thing, it also means it can be incredibly challenging to switch off. Even though I regularly practice meditation and mindfulness in my daily life, I hadn’t fully grasped how desperately I needed that specific moment to truly slow down and recalibrate. Since that transformative experience, I’ve made a dedicated effort to carve out more genuine moments not just away from work, but completely unplugged and significantly slowed down from the relentless pace of everyday life. I truly believe it’s an essential practice that you, too, should embrace.

Navigating the Stages of Unplugging: A Mental Journey

The process of truly disconnecting, especially in our hyper-connected world, isn’t always linear. It’s often a fascinating psychological journey, marked by distinct stages that many of us can relate to:

• Initial Excitement: The thrill of anticipating freedom, the mental escape from daily responsibilities, and the promise of peace.
• Emergence of Boredom: Once the initial novelty wears off, a strange sense of emptiness can creep in. What do I *do* now without my usual distractions?
• Fear, or Utter Fear and the Urge to Retreat!: This is often the most challenging stage. A profound sense of anxiety can surface – “What am I missing?” “What if someone needs me?” “This isn’t productive!” It’s a powerful impulse to return to the familiar comfort of constant connection.
• Slight Calming Down: As you resist the urge to reconnect, a subtle shift occurs. The initial panic subsides, and a quietude begins to settle in.
• Newfound Awareness: You might start noticing details you’ve never truly seen before – the intricate pattern of a leaf, the nuanced sound of birdsong, the way light filters through a window. “Realizing you’ve never seen this plant before and it’s always been there…hmm.”
• Time Distortion & Enjoyment: Suddenly, hours have slipped by unnoticed. The activities you chose (or even just the quiet contemplation) have become genuinely engaging. “Wait…when did 5 hours pass? This has been fun!”
• Profound Calm: A deep sense of peace washes over you. The mental clutter dissipates, replaced by clarity and tranquility. “Wow, I feel so…calm!”
• The Desire for More: The experience leaves you craving more moments of disconnection and intentional slowing down. “Oh gosh I want to unplug ALL the time!!”

Defining Slowing Down in a Digital Age

For a while now, I’ve been dipping in and out of Erin Loecher’s insightful book, Chasing Slow. Each time I return to its pages, it serves as a powerful reminder: there is an incredibly beautiful and expansive world all around me, patiently waiting to be explored, even as I often find my head buried in my work. It’s easy to lose sight of this in 2017 (and arguably even more so today). As we discussed previously, social media, while connecting us, also subtly drives me to the brink of insanity. There’s an overwhelming constant stream of information and activity, creating an insidious feeling that if you don’t check in perpetually, you’ll inevitably miss out on something crucial. This pervasive fear of missing out (FOMO) is a significant barrier to embracing a slower pace.

Regrettably, this incessant need to be “on” has seeped into my professional life, and I suspect many of you might relate to this phenomenon in your own careers. I often feel an unspoken obligation to be constantly plugged in and fully present. My routine involves checking emails relentlessly throughout the day, scrutinizing blog and social media comments, and generally checking in endlessly across various platforms. This creates a relentless cycle that, I fear, can only lead to genuine burnout. It’s an exhausting pace that stifles creativity and prevents true focus.

The profound realization of this unsustainable pattern dawned on me as soon as I took that liberating day off. I recognized an urgent need for structure: clearly defined office hours that I consistently adhere to, and dedicated time to consciously slow down and anchor myself in the present moment, entirely separate from work. It’s undeniably challenging when your personal life and professional responsibilities are so deeply intertwined, especially for those of us in creative or entrepreneurial fields. However, I’ve gradually begun to establish a balance that is proving incredibly effective for me. Does this resonate with your own experience? Do you feel that constant pressure to be “on,” whether at work or during your personal time, and find yourself yearning for a respite from it all? Acknowledging this need is the first step towards creating a more sustainable and fulfilling lifestyle.

Practical Strategies for Embracing a Slower Pace and Mindfulness

Integrating moments of slowness into our busy lives doesn’t require grand gestures; often, it’s the small, intentional shifts that make the biggest difference. Here are some accessible ways to begin practicing the art of slowing down:

1. Engage with Content Deeply: Read an Article from Top to Bottom, Not Just Skimming.

When was the last time you truly read a post or an article *thoroughly*, from beginning to end, absorbing every word and nuance? In our fast-paced digital world, we’ve become so accustomed to skimming that the “TL:DR” (too long, didn’t read) summary has become commonplace. Challenge yourself to break this habit. Commit to reading one article completely, paying attention to its full message. You’ll likely discover not only that you absorb the information more effectively, but also that the act of focused reading can gently bring your mind down a few notches, leading you to a more calm and centered state.

2. Mindful Eating: Enjoy a Meal Without Digital Distractions.

I genuinely mean this: dedicate at least one meal a day to pure, undistracted enjoyment. Consider the incredible journey your food has undertaken—from the earth where the vegetables grew, through the hands that prepared it, to your plate. Your food, and indeed your very soul, deserves the space and attention to truly savor it. As the founder of Headspace wisely articulated, food has often devolved into mere background activity, something we consume while our attention is elsewhere. This means we rarely truly *taste* it. Make it a point to sit down for at least one meal a day completely free of your phone, laptop, or Netflix. Use this time to have a real-life conversation, connect with those around you, or simply enjoy the quiet act of nourishing your body. Notice the flavors, textures, and aromas; rediscover the simple pleasure of eating.

3. Schedule “White Space” for Essential Rejuvenation.

This invaluable concept, which I first encountered from the brilliant ladies on the “Being Boss” podcast, has been transformative in my own life. Just as meticulously as you schedule work appointments and deadlines into your calendar, intentionally schedule in free time, often referred to as “white space.” By treating this downtime with the same importance as any work task, it becomes non-negotiable. This dedicated time away from work is absolutely crucial for your well-being. Think of it this way: you cannot pour from an empty well. If you are constantly draining your energy through relentless work without actively carving out time to re-energize and refuel your spirit, you are doing yourself a profound disservice. Prioritizing this “white space” is an act of proactive self-preservation.

Furthermore, cultivate a morning routine *before* you even glance at your phone. If your phone doubles as your alarm, place it across the room. This simple physical distance prevents you from immediately reaching over and plunging into the digital noise and demands of the day. Ugh! I personally despise those mornings when I succumb to this habit – it often feels like I haven’t slept at all! I used to wake up to dozens of Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter notifications, alongside a flood of WhatsApp messages and emails. Now, I am diligently working to establish a routine where I get up, wash my face, complete my exercise, engage in meditation, and *then*, when my official work hours commence, I delve into all the work-related communications. You absolutely deserve a morning free from that relentless extra noise and digital demands. Start your day with intention, not reaction.

Repeat after me:

You are amazing (no really, say it out loud!)

AND You are strong AND

You are incredible for all the things you do

AND You are not a robot.

Embracing Savasana: The Art of Doing Nothing

In the vibrant world of yogis (a phrase that always sounds rather delightful!), there’s a running joke that Savasana, or Corpse Pose, is everyone’s absolute favorite posture. It’s often the most anticipated moment after an intense practice. But did you know that it’s also widely considered one of the most challenging poses to truly master? In essence, Savasana involves doing nothing. No, really, I mean absolutely NOTHING. You lie still, allowing your body to integrate the physical practice, but more importantly, allowing your mind to quiet and find profound rest.

When my husband and I used to practice hot yoga, Savasana was the move I craved most after a particularly intense workout. It was the promised land of stillness. Yet, simultaneously, we live in a society that subtly (and sometimes not so subtly) teaches us that “doing nothing” is practically a crime. We’re bombarded with messages: “time waits for no one!” “you’re wasting your precious time on earth!” “maximize every moment!” and so on. So, imagine the profound challenge of sitting or lying still for at least 15 minutes, doing absolutely nothing productive, engaging in no external activity whatsoever!

This internal struggle is precisely what unfolded for me during my dedicated “unplug day.” It began innocently enough with my internal monologue conceding, “Well, these past two hours of simply being immersed in nature have been lovely, but WHAT IS GOING ON ON FACEBOOK?!” Immediately followed by the anxious query, “What am I missing?!” The fear quickly escalated: “What if someone is dying? How will they contact me? This isn’t safe. Unplugging is DANGEROUS.” Yes, I’m laughing at my own absurdity now, but in the moment, those feelings were very real and intense!

Even if you don’t practice yoga, I urge you to try this simple, yet powerful exercise. Set a timer on your phone for just 15 minutes, with the sole intention of doing nothing. Absolutely no distractions – no phone, no book, no chores, nothing. Just you, perhaps comfortably settled on your bed or a favorite chair, with only the ambient sounds of a fan or air conditioning. Try to close your eyes and gently focus on your breath, or simply allow your thoughts to drift without engaging with them. After just 15 minutes of this intentional unplugging and “doing nothing,” you’ll likely experience a remarkable shift. This practice is incredibly important for clearing the mind, resetting your thoughts, and genuinely re-energizing your brain. It’s a powerful tool for mental decluttering.

Do you consciously dedicate time to truly unplug from the constant demands of life? How does it make you feel?

Defining and Practicing Authentic Self-Care

I’m well aware of how expansive this post is becoming – but I warned you this was a topic close to my heart! On that extraordinary day off – that truly magical day – I gained a profound understanding of what self-care genuinely means. Certainly, it can involve seemingly superficial acts like getting your nails done, indulging in a relaxing massage, or enjoying a leisurely spa day. However, on a much deeper and less material level, self-care fundamentally means taking deliberate, proactive steps to nurture your entire being and safeguard your well-being, which crucially includes your mental health. Having personally navigated a challenging history with stress, I intimately understand the critical importance of maintaining a state of balance that effectively prevents excessive stress from infiltrating my life.

True self-care involves consistently maintaining that equilibrium and fiercely protecting *you*, whatever that entails. If it means enforcing strict work hours to create boundaries and shield yourself from overload, then that is self-care. If it means ensuring you always carry a healthy snack because you know your “hangry” levels can trigger debilitating headaches, then that is self-care. If it means having the courage to say “NO” to an event or commitment that would drain your energy, then that is unequivocally self-care. At its core, self-care simply means engaging in intentional actions that prioritize your needs, nourish your spirit, and protect your inner peace. Think about the profound love and protective instincts you feel for your partner, your child, or even your beloved pet. Now, imagine applying that same level of care, compassion, and protection to yourself, because you absolutely deserve it too! For me, my daily self-care ritual has distilled into three essential steps:

• Practicing yoga: It consistently makes me feel physically stronger, more flexible, and instilled with a quiet confidence that carries into other aspects of my life.
• Engaging in meditation: This practice is an incredibly powerful tool for alleviating significant amounts of stress, helping me to center myself and gain perspective amidst life’s demands.
• Eating my meals on time: This seemingly simple act is crucial for protecting my gut health and maintaining a balanced internal flora, which profoundly impacts my overall energy and well-being.

What does authentic self-care truly mean to you? If you haven’t already, how are you planning to incorporate these vital practices into your daily routine? Share your insights in the comments below!

Enrich Your Journey: Recommended Reads and Listening Materials

To further support your journey into slow living and self-care, here are some invaluable resources that have inspired me:

Chasing Slow by Erin Loecher: This book is an absolute must-read for anyone feeling overwhelmed by modern life. Erin courageously shares her personal story as a top blogger who, despite “having it all,” realized the relentless pace of her life was unsustainable and preventing her from experiencing the happiness she truly desired and deserved. It’s a powerful narrative about finding contentment through intentional deceleration.

Being Boss Podcast: Oh my gosh, I have completely done a marathon session with this podcast! Kathleen and Emily are two incredibly insightful entrepreneurs who share practical tips, mindset shifts, and effective tactics for becoming an amazing boss, not just in business, but in managing your life and well-being. It is SO inspirational and provides actionable advice for creatives and business owners alike!

The Lively Show Podcast by Jess Lively: I’ve recently started listening to this podcast, and Jess’s perspectives on wellness, spirituality, and intentional living are truly awe-inspiring and profoundly relatable. Her approach to living a life “with intention” resonates deeply with the themes of slowing down and self-care. Plus, Jessica is an awesome name, haha!

Currently on my reading lists and eagerly awaiting exploration in my Kindle library, thanks to amazing recommendations from my wonderful community:

Daring Greatly by Brené Brown: Do I even need to explain? Dr. Brené Brown is an absolute genius. This profound book is an essential read for anyone grappling with vulnerability, courage, shame, and worthiness. It offers transformative insights into living a wholehearted life filled with love, belonging, and connection, even in the face of uncertainty.

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*** by Mark Manson: Don’t let the provocative title deter you. This book is a refreshing antidote to conventional self-help, offering a counterintuitive approach to living a good life. It’s all about getting away from people-pleasing, stopping the endless pursuit of external validation, and learning to focus your precious energy on what truly matters most to *you*.

You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero: I’ve heard so many glowing reviews about this book! It’s a hilarious and inspiring guide that addresses self-doubt head-on, empowering you to identify and change the self-sabotaging beliefs and behaviors that prevent you from living the amazing life you deserve. It’s a powerful call to embrace your inner badass and create real, lasting change.

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho: This timeless philosophical novel has been recommended to me over and over and over again! It’s a captivating fable about following your dreams and finding your destiny. I simply can’t wait to immerse myself in its wisdom and powerful message about personal legends and the journey of self-discovery.

The Celestine Prophecy by James Redfield: This book also received numerous recommendations, intriguing me with its spiritual adventure and profound insights into human consciousness and energy. I’m excited to explore its narrative and discover the deeper meanings it holds!

Savoring Simplicity: A Delicious Recipe for Slow Living

Welcome to what might be the easiest recipe you’ll ever encounter, perfectly embodying the spirit of slowing down and appreciating simple pleasures:

Easy Grilled Pineapples (aka Caramelised Pineapples)! I chose to include this incredibly simple recipe because it beautifully illustrates how embracing simplicity, taking a moment to slow down in the kitchen, can yield such exquisitely beautiful and divinely delicious results. The process itself is uncomplicated, allowing you to be present with the food, and the outcome is absolutely mouth-watering.

P.S. How are you progressing with your summer bucket list? Remember, this is intended as a NO-pressure scenario. My intention is never to add just *one* more daunting task to your already never-ending wellness and self-improvement lists! Instead, think of it as a gentle invitation, a joyful way for you to channel more authentic happiness and presence into your life. It can be as wonderfully simple as acknowledging how much you love the way eating fresh fruit makes you feel, and therefore consciously choosing to have more fruit, or perhaps taking a mindful, evening stroll along the beach, fully present in the sights and sounds. The goal is intentional joy, not obligation.

I would absolutely love to hear from you in the comments section below! What are your thoughts on slowing down and self-care? Happy Sunday to you all!