Go With The Slow - Week 4 Reflections

Welcome to Summer of Slow Reflections - a weekly(ish) blog on my personal experiences as I attempt to hit the brakes on life's relentless pace. Each week, I'll share insights from the front lines of my summer of deceleration - the daily struggle to simply be present without jumpstarting into the next thing. To marinate in a moment without stirring. To gaze at a cloud without checking my phone.

?? A Summer of Slow: Wintering in Miami's Heat ??

As I sit here in my air-conditioned sanctuary, watching the shimmering heat waves dance outside my window, I can't help but chuckle at the irony. It's summer in Miami, and I'm about to wax poetic about the book "Wintering" by Katherine May. Talk about perfect timing, right? ??

But here's the thing - while the thermometer might be pushing triple digits, many of us are living in a state of perpetual winter. The world keeps spinning faster, demands keep piling up, and disruptions seem to be the new normal. So maybe, just maybe, embracing the concept of wintering in the midst of a Miami summer isn't so crazy after all.

Let's face it, when the humidity turns your hair into a frizzy mess and stepping outside feels like walking into a sauna, retreating indoors becomes our survival strategy. It's our very own Floridian version of hibernation. So why not use this time to truly winter?

Now, I'll be honest with you. This summer of slow has taken on a whole new meaning for me. After 23 years at Deloitte (yes, you read that right - I could've had a child and sent them off to college in that time), I've decided to step away. Talk about a plot twist, huh? ??

It's been... well, let's just say it's been a journey. There have been moments of exhilaration, followed by waves of panic, sprinkled with a healthy dose of "What the heck am I doing?" But isn't that what wintering is all about? Embracing the uncertainty, allowing ourselves to feel all the feels, and trusting that this period of retreat will lead to renewal?

May's book couldn't have come at a better time for me. As I navigate this major life transition, her words remind me that it's okay to slow down, to retreat, to winter - even when the rest of the world seems to be in full summer mode.

One of the most important reminders I've taken from "Wintering" is the importance of self-compassion. May emphasizes that during these challenging times, we need to be kind to ourselves. So, I'm continually learning to silence my inner critic (she's a loud one) and embrace a gentler inner dialogue. It's not always easy, but it's a game-changer when I succeed at it.

Another key takeaway is the power of rituals. May talks about how establishing meaningful routines can provide structure and comfort during uncertain times. For me, given my long worn-in work routines no longer exist, this has translated into a sacred morning routine - meditation (still working on that quiet mind), journaling, and a cup of Cuban coffee (because some Miami habits die hard ?).

May also highlights the restorative power of nature. While Miami's summer might not be ideal for long nature walks, I’ve been more present during my morning walks with my dog Fiona - helping her sniff out the lizards, and squirrels brave enough to be on our path. There's something profoundly healing about nurturing life, even if it's just a few potted plants (btw fake plants work too ??).

Perhaps the most comforting lesson from "Wintering" is the reminder that this is just a season. May beautifully illustrates how winter, both literal and metaphorical, eventually gives way to spring. It's a powerful message of hope and resilience that I cling to on the tougher days.

So here I am, in my Miami winter, learning to embrace the slow. I'm rediscovering old passions and exploring new ones. I'm finding strength in stillness and growth in retreat. It's a journey of redefining productivity - not in terms of tasks completed, but in the cultivation of wellbeing and self-discovery.

There are days when I miss the hustle and bustle of my corporate life, and others when I revel in the luxury of a midday nap. It's a rollercoaster, but isn't that what makes life interesting?

As May so beautifully puts it, "Wintering brings about some of the most profound and insightful moments of our human experience." So here's to wintering in the summer, to embracing the slow, and to finding growth in the most unexpected places.

And hey, if all else fails, there's always a frozen watermelon margarita waiting at the end of the day. Because sometimes, that's what wintering in Miami looks like.??

Cheers to the summer of slow, my friends. May we all find our own way to winter, no matter the season, and emerge stronger, wiser, and more in tune with ourselves.

Now, if you're inspired to embrace your own summer of slow, here are a few steps to get you started on your wintering journey:

1. Create a Retreat Space ??

Carve out a corner of your home that's dedicated to rest and reflection. It could be as simple as a comfy chair with a good reading lamp, or a meditation cushion by a window. Make it a space that invites stillness and introspection.

2. Start a Wintering Journal ??

Set aside a few minutes each day to jot down your thoughts, feelings, and observations. This practice can help you process emotions and track your growth throughout this season of life.

3. Embrace a Daily Ritual ???

Choose one small act to perform each day that grounds you. It could be lighting a candle, brewing a special cup of tea, or taking a moment to watch the sunset. Consistency is key here, not complexity.

4. Connect with Nature (Miami Style) ??

Even in the heat, find ways to commune with the natural world. This might mean tending to houseplants, watching birds from your window, or taking an early morning walk before the sun gets too intense.

5. Practice the Art of Saying No ??

Give yourself permission to decline invitations or commitments that don't align with your need for rest and retreat. It's okay to prioritize your well-being.

6. Explore Mindfulness ??

Try incorporating short mindfulness exercises into your day. Even five minutes of deep breathing or a body scan can help center you and reduce stress.

7. Cultivate Creativity ??

Engage in a creative pursuit without any pressure to produce or perform. This could be doodling, writing poetry, or experimenting with a new recipe. The goal is enjoyment, not perfection.

Remember, wintering is a personal journey. Feel free to adapt these steps to fit your own needs and circumstances. The key is to be intentional about creating space for rest, reflection, and renewal in your life.

Here's to your summer of slow. May it be a time of gentle discovery and profound growth. ??