Our lives are becoming more fast-paced and hectic. We are encouraged to be busy, to multi-task, and to be as productive as humanly possible. When our minds are speeding, it is hard to be a mindful parent to our children.

When we choose to slow down, we can avoid unnecessary stress and burnout, create opportunities to take care of your physical and emotional health, and prioritise what matters. Slowing down is a conscious choice, and not always an easy one, but it leads to a greater appreciation for life and a greater level of happiness.

Here are some ideas to start slowing down.

1. Do less. Make a conscious choice to do less. Focus on what is really important, what really needs to be done, and let go of the rest. Put space between tasks and appointments, so you can move through your days at a more leisurely pace. Set boundaries – say NO, let others do their jobs.
2. Be present. When you find yourself thinking about something you need to do, or something that has already happened, or something that might happen … gently bring yourself back to the present moment. Focus on what is going on right now. On your actions, on your environment, on others around you.
3. Disconnect. Spend less time on your device. Learn to leave it behind when possible.
4. Focus on people. With conscious effort you can shut off the outside world and just be present with the person you are with. Look at the person’s expression, find delight in the interaction.
5. Appreciate nature. Take the time to go outside and observe nature, take a deep breath of fresh air, enjoy the serenity of water and greenery. Feel the sensations of water and wind and earth against your skin.
6. Eat slower. Learn to eat slowly. Be mindful of each bite. Appreciate the flavours and textures.
7. Drive slower. Make it a habit to slow down when you drive. Appreciate your surroundings. Make it a peaceful time to contemplate your life, and the things you are passing.
8. Find pleasure in anything. Whatever you’re doing, be fully present … and also appreciate every aspect of it, and find the enjoyable aspects. For example, when washing dishes, instead of rushing through it as a boring chore to be finished quickly, feel the sensations of the water, the suds, the dishes.
9. Single-task. The opposite of multi-tasking. Focus on one thing at a time. When you feel the urge to switch to other tasks, pause, breathe, and pull yourself back. 
10. Breathe. When you find yourself speeding up and stressing out, pause, and take a deep breath. Take a couple more. Feel the air coming into your body, and feel the stress going out. By fully focusing on each breath, you bring yourself back to the present, and slow yourself down.

Read more:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/au/blog/click-here-for-happiness/202302/how-to-slow-down-in-life

https://zenhabits.net/the-10-essential-rules-for-slowing-down-and-enjoying-life-more/