Slowing it Down

How many things are you doing as you read this ? 

We are amazing multi-taskers these days.  So, let’s add one more task to your to-do list this week: SLOW DOWN.  We are living in the age of 24-7 connections and expectations. Our minds and bodies are programmed to believe that if we live at warp speed, it will make us more productive, successful and happy.  But downshifting in certain key areas can lead to big benefits.  
When you slow your pace you gain focus, feel more relaxed, in control and you may be less prone to everything from colds to chronic illness according to Dr. Bruce Rabin, medical director of the Healthy Lifestyle Program at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

Here are a few slowing it down suggestions:

    Relax your morning routine:

    - Prepare the night before (pick out clothing, grind coffee beans)
    - Wake up peacefully (use an alarm sound that’s soothing, not jarring)
    - Identify 1 self-care ritual for the morning (deep breaths, moisturizer, dry rub before your   shower, hand lotion/massage, exercise, journaling)

    Eat like you are meant to

    - Slowly
    - Sit Down
    - Sense the Food – taste, texture and smell

    Uni-Task (it’s the new black!)

    - Try to do one thing at a time while on your computer
    - Truly be present when engaged in a conversation
    - Spend time with yourself…write or read or walk

Challenge yourself this week to SLOW DOWN and enjoy the gift of peace it brings.