Slow living
Disconnect to reconnect
On a road trip from one bustling city to another, we found ourselves stopping for the night at a quaint hotel. It was one of those places with a hidden gem — a rooftop terrace boasting a stunning view. After a refreshing swim in the hotel’s rooftop pool, we gathered under the evening sky, the city lights twinkling below us.
Amidst the laughter and shared stories of our journey so far, my friend Jairam suddenly brought up the topic of slow living. It was as if his words were meant to find me in that exact moment, amidst the hustle of our trip.
“Have you ever thought about slowing down?” Jairam asked, his gaze wandering over the cityscape. “Taking time to really appreciate life?”
I hadn’t given it much thought before, caught up as I was in the constant movement from one city to the next. But there, on that rooftop terrace, his words resonated with me.
Back home, I started noticing how rushed I always felt — constantly on the move, never fully present. Inspired by Jairam’s wisdom, I decided to make a change.
My Slow Living Journey
Embracing Meaningful Activities: First, I began making time for things that truly mattered to me. I set aside moments for hobbies like photography and reading, enjoying them without any rush. These little breaks brought calmness and creativity into my days.
Mindful Cooking: Cooking also became a mindful practice. Instead of rushing through meals, I started preparing food slowly, savoring each step and the flavors that emerged. It wasn’t just about eating; it became a way to connect with the process and appreciate the nourishment it provided.
Daily Walks in Nature: Taking walks became a daily ritual, a time to unwind and reconnect with nature. Whether it was a stroll through a nearby park or a quiet path in my neighborhood, these moments outdoors helped clear my mind and rejuvenate my spirit. Deep breaths of fresh air became a part of this ritual, grounding me in the present moment.
Creating Technology-Free Spaces: I also created technology-free spaces in my day — a designated room or time where I could disconnect from screens and focus on other activities. This allowed me to be more present with my thoughts, my surroundings, and the people around me.
Prioritizing Relationships: Another important shift was prioritizing relationships. I made a conscious effort to spend quality time with loved ones, whether it was sharing a meal together or simply having a heartfelt conversation. These connections enriched my life and reminded me of the importance of meaningful relationships.
Slow living, I realized, wasn’t about making drastic changes or uprooting my life. It was about embracing a mindset — a deliberate choice to slow down, appreciate the present, and find joy in everyday moments.
As I reflect on this journey of discovery, I’m grateful for that evening on the rooftop terrace with Jairam. His words sparked a transformation in how I approach life, encouraging me to live more intentionally and find meaning in the simplicity of each day.
I share this story with you in the hope that it inspires you too, to pause, take a deep breath, and explore the beauty of slow living in your own unique way.
