Less Rush, More Life: 7 Slow Living Habits To Try

Disclosure: Simple Is More and our authors do not receive a commission through recommended links in this content. We do not have any conflicts of interest to disclose. Please visit our editorial policy, disclaimer policy, and terms of use for more information.

You wake up, and the first thing you grab is your phone. Before you know it, you’re sucked into a vortex of emails, notifications, and endless scrolling. Your day is off to a chaotic start, and it only gets worse from there.

Sound familiar? It did for me, too. I was living life in the fast lane, constantly stressed and always rushing. Something had to give. Enter slow living.

I decided to hit the brakes and focus on what really matters. Instead of a frantic morning, I start my day with a moment of gratitude and warm lemon water. I take just five minutes to meditate and be present. No phone, no rush. Just a moment of peace to set the tone for the day. It’s a simple habit, but it’s made a world of difference.

Since adopting this mindset, I’ve incorporated habits that help me stay grounded and present. Here are seven easy habits you can start now for a more intentional, peaceful life. I hope they inspire you to slow down and find your own sense of calm amidst the chaos.

1. Declutter Your Space

You’re living in a mess, and it’s stressing you out. Believe me, I know.

It’s time to slow down and simplify. Start by getting rid of stuff you don’t need. Seriously, who needs 50 pairs of shoes anyways.

When you declutter, you create space for peace. Less clutter means less mental noise. It’s like a cleanse for your mind and soul. Plus, it feels really good.

2. Prioritize Quality Over Quantity

Stop trying to do everything. Do less, but do it better. Focus on what truly matters.

Invest your time and energy in things that bring you real joy. Quality experiences beat a packed schedule any day. You’ll find more satisfaction in fewer, richer moments.

3. Disconnect From Technology

Put down the phone. Seriously, it’s draining your life away.

Schedule a tech-free hour every day. Use that time to reconnect with yourself or others. Read a book, take a walk, or just sit and think.

You’ll learn the world won’t end if you’re offline for a bit. It’s liberating and necessary.

4. Practice Mindfulness

Be present. Sounds cliché, but it works. Focus on what you’re doing right now. Whether it’s eating, working, or talking to someone, be there.

Mindfulness slows you down and makes you appreciate the moment. It’s like hitting pause on life’s chaos. Plus, it’s good for your mental health.

5. Leave Unfilled Blocks of Time

Sure, routines are great. Setting regular times for waking up, eating, and winding down cuts down on decision fatigue and keeps your day flowing. But don’t overdo it. Leave some gaps in your schedule. Unfilled blocks of time are your secret weapon.

They allow room for spontaneity and creativity. When your day isn’t jam-packed, you can seize unexpected opportunities or just relax. These moments can turn into the most memorable parts of your day.

Flexibility within your routine keeps life exciting and less robotic. You need structure, but you also need freedom to breathe.

6. Simplify Your Diet

Eating well nourishes yourself in a mindful, sustainable way. Try to eat simple and eat clean. Ditch the processed junk and focus on whole foods.

Cooking at home can be therapeutic. Plus, it’s healthier and often cheaper. Your mind and body will thank you.

7. Embrace Nature

Get outside. Seriously, nature is the best medicine. Whether it’s a park, beach, or mountain, just go. Breathe the fresh air, feel the sun, listen to the birds.

Nature has a way of grounding you. It’s a reminder that there’s more to life than screens and schedules. Plus, it’s free therapy.

Does Slow Living Slow Time?

Time often seems to fly by when we are entrenched in routines, moving from task to task without truly being present. Our days blur into each other, and we find ourselves wondering where the time went.

This rapid passage of time is largely because we are operating on autopilot, disconnected from the present moment. Slow living may help. By consciously embracing a slower, more intentional way of life, we can savor each moment, making time feel fuller and more meaningful.

Slow living fosters mindfulness, reduces stress, and enhances our appreciation for the simple pleasures in life. By breaking free from the relentless rush and cultivating a deeper connection with our daily experiences, we can transform how we perceive and experience the passage of time.