Hayley McDonnell
Living a life of intention with ease and flow is for everyone, every time and everywhere – this is the mantra I advocate. Ease and flow in this regard is living a life with everything you need, nothing you don’t need and bundling it up with everything you love.
A morning or wake-up routine is a good idea. Not everyone wakes up in the morning though… hello new parent – shift workers fit into this category too, so a ‘let’s start the day routine’ can start whatever time works for you. This is at the heart of slow living, one that works consciously and with intention. Remind yourself that you can make the rules and make this routine or any other work for you.
With everything you need to ease into the first or next phase of your day, your mental health and wellbeing provide a foundation for future success. Small steps are all that are needed.
I choose to work with what I have, my senses and seek opportunities where all can be fulfilled to some degree.
With everything you need to ease into the first or next phase of your day, your mental health and wellbeing provide a foundation for future success. Small steps are all that are needed.
Let’s start with preparing, making and drinking coffee (or your beverage of choice), possibly your first drink of the day. Every step is a step of accomplishment or achievement.
Sight – are the workspaces in my kitchen area clear of clutter? Are the kitchen tools I need accessible and ready? Is my favourite cup or mug ready, the coffee I want to grind, or drink? As an addendum, a de-cluttered home is one which really does support slow living. If this is not possible for you right now, then choose to organise and de-clutter one part of your home. A kitchen work surface might just be all that you can do for now and all that is needed.
Sound – can you listen to music? Choose what you want to though I suggest something quite gentle to support the slow living vibe you are creating. This active choice you are making acknowledges your sense of self and purpose. The sound of the water as you heat it or pour your coffee* and the sound of the spoon on the side of your mug as you slowly stir are small moments to focus on, savour and enjoy.
