Finding Time to Slow Down
A really quick one today. Which is ironic…
For around the past 18 months I have been trying to go out for a walk every day. Originally the main purpose of these walks was to get me out of the house for a change of scenery and also to increase my regular exercise.
The more I walked the easier I found it, my stamina increased and I found myself walking at a faster pace. I was proud of my achievements.
I often choose to walk through woods or down tree-lined paths. I enjoy looking up through the branches at the sky, in awe at the size, solidity and permanence of the trees.
Over the past few weeks I’ve found that I’ve started slowing down my pace of walking significantly once I arrive at a wooded area. This has enabled me to look more closely at the plants and wildlife I encounter and to savour the time spent among the trees.
I’m not saying that everyone should go and walk slowly through their local woods (although I do thoroughly recommend it) however it’s worth thinking if there are any activities that you enjoy that you’re not really taking the time to appreciate as much as you could.
It could be listening to your favourite band, eating the meals you love or visiting places you are interested in.
And if you realise there are things that you would benefit from experiencing at a more relaxed pace, this is your reminder to slow down and smell those metaphorical roses.
