To Hustle or Be Idle: Mastering the Art of Slowing Down

By: Cid Santillan, Content Director

Take a deep breath in. Now, take a deep breath out.

When we are caught in the haze of deadlines and tasks, we tend to forget what our minds and bodies need from time to time: slowing down. 

The added burden of working from home attracts the notion that you simply must be more productive since you are easily available with just a click of a button. People will trick you into thinking so.

However, science proves the opposite. Because slowing down enhances one’s health and wellbeing. When we allow our minds to be idle, it lowers stress and blood pressure. As a result, decision making and other cognitive functions are enhanced while emotional equilibrium is restored.

So, if you have been looking for a sign all day to just kick back and relax, even if it is only for a few minutes, this is it. Here’s how to master the art of slowing down.

Mindful breathing.

Multi-tasking is one of the factors that contribute to a busy mind. While this is good when you’re at your best mental and emotional state, it can also be a bit daunting and exhausting when you’re having an off day.

Mind your breathing. Sometimes, we neglect taking at least one long breath in and out. Deep breathing may seem unnatural, but it helps you disengage from distracting thoughts or sensations. Plus, it won’t take much time off of your day.

Dive into your activity (or inactivity) of choice.

Want to play your favorite album at full blast? Aching to watch an episode of your favorite TV show? Or do you just need to roll around in bed, close your eyes for a bit, and let your imagination run wild? Go ahead and follow what your heart desires.

Some people may choose to do nothing as a form of escape from their present reality, even if it’s just for a brief moment. While other people may opt to get up and run to temporarily keep their mind off of work and get those endorphins circulating. Slowing down or taking it easy for a while will mean something different for each individual. What’s important is that you set aside time to check on and treat yourself. Or to simply have some downtime.

Attitude of gratitude.

Psychology research shows that expressing gratitude can make you happier. It helps us feel more positive emotions, build worthwhile relationships, improve our health, and allows us to observe situations in a wider perspective, making it less difficult for us to deal with adversities.

At the end of the day, we need moments to sit down and think about the blessings that surround us. Whether you choose to reach out to a friend or meditate to show gratitude, it is important to practice it whenever you can.

Eliminate the guilt.

One cannot help but feel this way when they take a break while everyone else around them is seemingly keeping their heads down to focus on a multitude of tasks.

Shift your perspective. Unapologetically integrate periods of relaxation in your schedule every now and then. It will enhance not just your productivity, but also your wellbeing. 

Instead of exerting too much effort in running towards the future, find your center in the present to get a clearer vision of what is to come. We, at TeamAsia, believe that slowing down is a part of the process of working smarter and more efficiently. We keep in mind that we have to take the time to be idle in order to hustle again in the best way possible.

In need for some time to yourself? Want more insight on how to slow down effectively? Talk to us at info@teamasia.com