10 Ways to Slow Down and Enjoy Life

“Take time to stop and smell the roses.” ~Unknown

This blue globe we reside on seems to spin faster and faster…doesn’t it?

Or does it?

Is it all a matter of perspective? A Costa Rican woman might feel differently than us.

So what can we do to give ourselves an appreciation of time? These 10 ways to slow down and enjoy life struck me as helpful to push the pause button.

1. Morning Devotion

Resist the urge to reach for your cell phone first thing in the morning. Instead reach for an uplifting devotional book. I have several daily dose of inspiration books to choose from. Right now I’m reading Jesus Calling. This can set the tone for the rest of your day.

2. Enjoy Nature

Take a 5-10 minute break daily to step outside. Breathe in some fresh air and enjoy the beauty of nature.

3. Limit Internet Use

Try to cut your social networking, email and web surfing by half each day. Explore other ways to spend your time with a new hobby, exercise, yoga or read a book.

4. Schedule Me Time

Mark your calendar, make an appointment with yourself and do whatever you want! Take a relaxing detox bath, cook a new recipe, watch a movie or schedule a massage.

5. Drive the Scenic Route

Slow down and take the scenic route home. Driving by open fields, mountains or viewing a city skyline can be very relaxing.

6. Eat Slower

Take time to eat slowly, consuming less food and enjoying every bite. Experiment with new whole food recipes with natural spices and skip the fat, sugar and salt.

7. Top 3 Tasks a Day

Focus on your top 3 tasks to complete each day.  Keeping the list short forces you to tackle the important ones first. This eliminates the hustle and stress of trying to accomplish everything at once.

8. Positive People

Spend time with the people you care about. Find a quiet coffee shop or restaurant and truly spend time listening and connecting with each other. No cell phones allowed! Relationships are the key to a purposeful life.

9. One Day at a Time

Live in the present moment. Yesterday is history and tomorrow is a mystery! You will actually get more done when you focus on one day at a time. Trust me this is how I live my life!

10. Dreams and Goals

Reflect on your dreams and goals for about 5 minutes before getting out of bed to start your day. Recall the milestones you’ve already accomplished in your life and your plans to achieve new ones.

I hope this list helps you slow down, live one day at a time and enjoy life!

Photo credit: PicMonkey

Cheers to a Healthy Life!