Taking a Second to Slow Down

For as long as I can remember I have been running into corners, knocking half full glasses over, and flailing from place to place. A spaz some may call me.

Very recently, I grew tired of moving too fast, hip-checking too many items, and knocking endless things over. It was the final straw, the knocking over of that chocolate milk. As I stood back and looked at the mess I had created, I was frustrated with myself for yet another incident that could have been avoided if I wasn’t rushing.

I began to brainstorm on how I could move myself away from my spastic ways, and not just my actions, but my thoughts too. I came to the conclusion that my mind is constantly moving at too fast of a pace for life around me therefore my body movements tend to fly all over the place as well.

I need to try and think about one thing at a time rather than having multiple columns that my mind goes back and forth between. More or less, I need to relax. I should try and remind myself it’s not all about getting from here to there and back.

If I can get myself to slow down, I can bring more peace into my daily life and isn’t that what we all want, folks? Just a little peace of mind. I sat down and reflected on how and what I can do when I am feeling overwhelmed. Below are five prescriptions I have given myself to achieve slowing myself down.

1. Take a breath: By taking a minute to breathe you allow yourself to calm down and give yourself a second to collect yourself.
2. Step outside for a second: There is nothing like fresh air when you are feeling frantic or busy.
3. Treat yo self: Treat yourself to something that will help you relax! My go-to is a nice grande Starbucks.
4. Read: Pick up the book you’re in the middle of or pick up one you want to read! Dedicating your energy to reading can help calm yourself while also learning.
5. Pray or Meditate: “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you,” 1 Peter 1:7

These are just some of the MANY things we can do to help us slow down. A good friend of mine says, “All it takes is a second to step back and take a breath, collect yourself, and start again.” If it seems like your world is moving too fast for you, just take a step back and collect yourself; the world can wait a few minutes, trust me.

Jordan Blaine

Jordan, a new Seattleite, is pursuing a career in journalism after recently graduating from a small liberal arts college in Montana. She is an avid cook, spinner, and champagne lover. She hopes to one day host her own talk show.