The Benefits of Slowing Down

 The Benefits of Slowing Down

We all need to learn the benefits of slowing down and then take time to actually do it. Here I am at the beach visiting my family in California. I look forward just to  an hour to feel the wind on my face, to watch the tide ebb and flow, to hear the call of the sea gulls as they dive and float through the air. The sky is ever changing the clouds move in a lazy pattern and remind me of childhood memories. Laying on the grass looking up with my sister imagining stories of dragons and princesses. Such an amazing peaceful setting. One where I can just allow myself to just be.

Enjoying nature, wherever you are, rolling meadows, farmlands, majestic mountains, city parks, botanic gardens, forest preserves letting go of any worries and totally escaping from the demands of my busy day. I’ve pressed the pause button. My speech for the Naturopath Society on Art in Health and Wellness will still be there in an hour, my friends and family too, but just for now they are not where my focus lies. But they benefit just as much as I by me taking this time out. Relaxing and refreshing my brain, recharging my creative juices lets me be present to to know exactly which material will serve my client’s needs and the best way to deliver it. I am kinder, more compassionate and present to family and friends. Such an important part of a self-care.

Let me share this poem with you by Wm. Henry Davies

What is this life if, full of care,

We have no time to stand and stare.

No time to stand beneath the boughs

And stare as long as sheep or cows.

No time to see, when woods we pass,

Where squirrels hide their nuts in grass.

No time to see, in broad daylight,

Streams full of stars, like skies at night.

No time to turn at Beauty’s glance,

And watch her feet, how they can dance.

No time to wait till her mouth can

Enrich that smile her eyes began.

A poor life this if, full of care,

We have no time to stand and stare.

Says it all really.

Please share what you noticed when you slowed down?