Slow living is a conscious choice to move through life with intention. Paying attention to what brings you joy, peace, and a sense of connection and create room for what matters.
It's about tuning into your own pace instead of chasing someone else's.
Slow living doesn’t mean doing everything slowly. It’s not about perfection, or a fixed aesthetic of linen dresses and sourdough bread (though I do love a good loaf). You don't have to be an influencer, wealthy, or have your own business and control over your schedule to start doing this.
It doesn’t mean you’ll never be busy, overwhelmed, or late again. I like to think of it as learning how to notice when you’re rushing through things out of habit and gently asking: Is there another way?
The phrase 'slow living' is most likely something you've heard of before, but are you practicing it? I've made a list of practices that I personally do on a daily basis that have helped me to appreciate these small moments of joy and appreciation of life.
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Savour your first sip of coffee or tea—don’t multitask, just enjoy the warmth and comfort.
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Crack open a window and listen to the morning sounds. Birds, breeze, distant life. Let them greet you.
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Light a candle, incense or oil diffuser before starting your day. Marking a gentle transition into presence.
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Take five mindful breaths between tasks. A mini reset to soften urgency.
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Let the sun warm your face. Even for 30 seconds by the window or on the porch.
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Handwrite a note, journal or write your to-do list. Allowing your thoughts to land with care.
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Pause to really taste your food. Without distractions. Just you and your lunch.
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Step outside, even briefly. Feel the ground under your feet, breathe in the air.
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Turn off notifications for an hour. Protect a little quiet to focus or simply be.
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Let a song play all the way through. And actually listen to it.
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Make something with your hands. Whether it’s dinner, a sketch, or shaping clay.
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Choose one task to do with intention, not speed. Like folding laundry or washing dishes.
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Tuck your phone away during mealtime. Connect with the food, the space, or the company.
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End the day with a soft light and a slow ritual. A journal, a warm bath, reading a chapter of your book, or turning down the bed with care.
For me, clay has been one of the best teachers of slow living. It doesn’t respond well to rushing (even though I may try to push that limit at times, its a process). It asks you to be present with your hands, your breath, your whole body. Every part of the process requires time, patience, and attention.
In my studio, I create space for presence and mindfulness. Pressing your hands into the clay, centring it on the wheel, feeling its movement, each step invites you to slow down and notice. There’s no need to be perfect. What matters is that you're here, creating something with care and intention, with hope that you allow yourself space to come back to your centre (pottery pun intended).
Whatever little moments of joy you choose for yourself like lighting a candle, making a delicious meal, or simply sitting with your thoughts, please remember that you’re allowed to move at your own pace.
Slow isn’t a weakness. In clay, life, or in business, it can be a steady, grounding strength.