In this blogpost I would like to tell more about the first value; slowness. For the last few years, since I graduated from university, I have been craaaaving slowness in my everyday life. For a while, I worked as a barista in hospitality in my hometown, Antwerp. And soon felt that besides loving doing this, I was overwhelmed by the workload, the physical aspect and the speed at which everything had to be done (read: the rude impatience of many). I was drowning in stress and decided to quit. A little later, I got the chance to work in a nursery. Curious for a new experience, I took up the challenge. Not knowing that in this job, too, everything had to go at 100 km per hour. Completely against my nature. And even with pain and resistance, because after all, children deserve to get the conscious attention they need. Even though I love children immensely, I decided to quit, again. And starting searching for something slower and more conscious. After a long search, I realised that slowness is what we lack in so many jobs, in our daily lifes in general. I thought to myself: let's create and share it myself.
For someone who has a very sensitive nervous system - and as I am writing this, I correct myself: for basically everyone - living in a society where speed, efficiency and constant productivity reigns, is highly exhausting. We are so programmed after years following the fast pace, that the idea of slowness may seem and feel counterintuitive.
However, embracing slowness can bring about a sense of peace, mindfulness, and deeper connection to the world around and within us. Slowness is not about being lazy, unproductive, sluggish or non-intelligent (all judgments that lived rent-free in my mind for a very long time). Rather, it is a deliberate choice to savor each moment and engage with the present fully. By slowing down, we give ourselves the opportunity to appreciate the small details that often go unnoticed in the rush of everyday life.
One of the key benefits of embracing slowness is reduced stress. When we are constantly rushing from one task to the next, our bodies and minds remain in a state of high alert, leading to increased anxiety and tension. Slowing down allows us to relax, unwind, and recharge. And after all improve our overall well-being.
Slowness also fosters mindfulness, as it encourages us to be fully present in the moment. By paying attention to our surroundings, our thoughts, and our emotions, we can cultivate a deeper awareness. This heightened sense of mindfulness can lead to greater clarity, creativity, and perspective.
In a world dominated by instant gratification and constant stimulation, embracing slowness is a radical act of self-care. It allows us to prioritize our mental health and emotional well-being, rather than succumbing to the pressure to constantly be busy and productive.
So, how can we incorporate slowness into our lives? It starts by simply taking a deep breath and pausing for a moment. So I invite you to deeply breathe in, now. For 1, 2, 3, 4. Hold your breath. For 1, 2, 3, 4. And breathe out. For 1, 2, 3, 4.
Ultimately, the beauty of slowness lies in its ability to remind us of what truly matters in life: connection, presence and authenticity. By slowing down and appreciating the richness of each moment, we can cultivate a more meaningful and fulfilling existence. And maybe even helping to rebuild our fast-paced world.
I have been searching for ways to make life more slow and I am happy to share them with you. Out of the heart of my own experience and gained wisdom. With 'the gentle moon' I am offering various practices, allowing you to incorporate more slowness into your daily life. So stick with us and discover the profound beauty that lies in the gentle rhythm of life's natural pace.
With gentle kindness,
Luna
Photographer: Viktorija Valionytė
Surrounding: Tadrart Rouge - Algeria