I don’t know about you, but my world is moving very fast.  It seems as though faster is the goal. As if moving faster, we are to experience more, as if doing more was better, and slowing down was less. When I rush, I tend to shift into autopilot; therefore, I am not as mindful as I might believe I am. More importantly, I feel stressed, I get tired easily, and I tend to make more mistakes. 

Yoga reminds us of the power of slowness! Slowing down allows us to be aware and to notice what is happening in the present moment. It empowers us to be a ‘participant’ in our own life experience. Moving more slowly may not seem easy because we have so many things to do, but we can start by:

• Taking smaller steps
• Bringing awareness to our breath
• Including intentional breaks throughout the day
• Going for a walk instead of driving

It reminds me of an interaction with Tias Little, a teacher, during my yoga teacher training. I felt so in tune with his lectures and eagerly wanted to talk with him. I rushed towards him during the break, so I could get a chance to say hello and ask my questions. When I reached him, he looked me in the eye, slowly and kindly said, “Hello! What’s your name?”

He was so intentional with being present. He was deliberate and calm about getting my name and making eye contact, and I felt like time instantly stood still. I felt seen, shifting me into the present. Had he not had such a calm spirit, we would have missed connecting at the deeper level we did. I felt at ease asking questions, and I remember this exchange as a very positive experience.

Becoming slower may seem difficult – it takes more effort to be present, it takes awareness, and deliberate mindfulness. The more we decrease our speed (which might be more like a normal pace), the more agile and mentally resilient we become. In addition, you may notice an improvement in focus and a reduction in, or better regulation of, stress and anxiety. All in all, a greater sense of self-awareness. 

For me, slowing down has meant practicing awareness and appreciating the present moment. I am more intentional with how I connect and communicate with individuals. I deeply enjoy knowing that when I go from one place to another, I am an observant and safer, turning off the autopilot.

Slowness is synonymous with patience, and patience is synonymous with awareness and presence. And if we want to learn, heal, and feel centered, slowing down is where it starts!