Autumn 2024 Simple Tips for a Calmer, More Balanced Life

I hope this newsletter finds you with a peaceful mind and heart.
3-minute read

Photo credit: Cottonbro Studio c/o Pexels

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Embracing Slow(er) Living:
​Simple Tips for a Calmer, More Balanced Life

As November begins, we honor International Stress Awareness Day on November 1, a timely reminder to check in on the pressures of daily life. In our fast-paced world, many of us are accustomed to juggling multiple roles, pushing through deadlines, and feeling overwhelmed with little time left for ourselves. If this sounds familiar, remember: "I am a human being, not a human doing." Let this powerful reminder invite you to explore slow(er) living, a lifestyle centered on mindfulness and balance that anyone can try to incorporate, especially here in Ohio, where our seasons seem to echo the need for reflection and transition.

What is Slow Living?

Slow living isn’t about doing less; it's about doing things with intention. It encourages us to prioritize moments that bring peace, ease, and authenticity. For Ohioans accustomed to busy routines and seasonal stressors, starting small can make a big difference.

Tips for Embracing Slow Living

1. Start Your Day with Mindfulness: Take five minutes in the morning for gentle stretching or journaling your intentions for the day ahead. This simple practice can set a calming tone for the rest of your day.

2. Incorporate Micro-Breaks: Allow yourself small, intentional breaks throughout the day. Pausing between tasks to breathe, step outside, or simply sit in stillness can improve focus and decrease stress.

3. Limit Multitasking: Focus on one task at a time. Completing tasks individually helps prevent burnout and leaves you feeling more satisfied with your progress.

4. Set Boundaries with Technology: Create intentional spaces without your phone, at the dinner table or before bedtime. Disconnecting from screens lets you reconnect with yourself and others.

5. Embrace Ohio’s Seasonal Rhythms: Spend time outdoors or engage in seasonal activities that feel rejuvenating. Autumn walks, winter coziness, or spring gardening can reconnect you to the natural world and the rhythm of our Midwest seasons.

Remember, Small Changes Make Big Impacts

Adopting a slow-living mindset can help reduce the mental and physical impact of stress, creating space for more meaningful experiences and connections. As you think about ways to slow down, remember: stress management is a practice, not a destination. This November, take the first step to embrace intentional, small shifts towards a more balanced life.

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​“No one can dictate what attitude you will wear today. If you meet someone whose intent is to put you down, remember it is you who wears the crown."
​- Dodinsky

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Tracy Hunt, MSEd, LPCC

Photo Credit: Alan Cabello c/o Pexels

At Turning Inward Counseling, I’m here to support adults across Ohio on their journey to well-being. My approach is person-centered, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy to help you navigate life’s challenges. I offer a sliding scale (starting at $85), so help is within reach.

If you’d like to know more about managing stress or starting your own journey toward slow(er) living, please email me at [email protected]. 

I wish you a healthy Autumn season and look forward to seeing you when the time is right for you. Until then….
 
Tracy Hunt, MSEd, LPCC
Owner, Turning Inward LLC