Last week I was talking to a family member about 24 Days of Slowing Down and the person laughed and said, “No, speeding up is what is required.”

I get what he means, he has so much on his plate at the moment that he wants to be able to speed up so he can get everything done. But the reality is, slowing down for a few minutes a day can actually help you get things done because by slowing down you'll have more energy, feel more focused and be more productive.

It may seem like a time paradox, but the reality is there. Studies have shown us that that the sense of ‘time urgency,’ or the feeling of not having enough time, can actually lead us to perform worse, not better.

Slowing down doesn’t necessarily mean do things slower (although that can be beneficial), but instead to prioritize, shift our mindset and use a variety of tools to help us down shift or even turn off our body’s stress response. This then gives us the ability to feel we do have time to rest, be present and enjoy our life.

So, if you also have been feeling like speeding up is what is currently needed, remember that slowing down can actually be more beneficial. And because of this I’m dedicating the whole month of December to slowing down.

And if you're still not fully convinced, check out this TEDx talk by Ralph Simone:

Throughout December I'll be posting tips and tools to help you slow down, reduce your stress and feel more at ease.

But just to get us started here are a 5 quick suggestions (and past articles to dive into):

• Intentional pauses to check in, notice how you are in that moment without judgement, and give space to whatever arises.
• Breath work to activate the parasympathetic nervous system (i.e. your body's calm response) and reduce your body's stress response.
• Mindful movement to come into the present moment, build joy, and increase your body's strength, flexibility and endurance.
• Spend time in nature to nurture and heal your physical and mental health.

(Click here to download a FREE printable stress relief framework PDF)

If you haven’t signed up for it yet and think you’d benefit from meeting yourself where you are, taking a few minutes a day to slow down, plus consistency and motivation, come join me in 24 Days of Slowing Down!

>> Sign Up to Slow Down <<

If you’re already in there with me (🙏 Thank You!!), I sincerely hope you're noticing the benefits. Although, I do want to mention that it can take time to fully notice the change and create new habits, so give it some time if you don't feel it right away.

And remember, I’m always here to answer any questions, give more one-on-one support and be your supportive guide and resource, so don’t feel shy in reaching out! (There's a comment box below for you to do just that!)