Slowness is not a speed that I come naturally to. For as long as I can remember, I have taken great pride in my ability to keep going, get through anything, get through bouts of boredom, exhaustion, and exhaustion. This was the reality until I discovered the peace and clarity that can come from quiet moments.
In 2014, inspired by the book the path of the artist, which was given to me by a dear friend to read on a month-long sabbatical, this mindset began to change. I began to appreciate the practice of morning pages that Julia Cameron introduced in this book, a daily practice consisting of three handwritten pages to start the day. As an artist, mother of a young child, and creative executive, this thoughtful relaxation in my day, ONLY concerned with my own thoughts was MAGICAL.
An unlock occurred. Curious to introduce more and more moments of stillness, introspection, and calm into my life, I sought out other practices to extend this feeling into the fabric of my days. Where I used to rush in the morning and off to the next crisis of the day, I now have a few simple rituals I found to keep me grounded, living with intention, and ready to tackle whatever the world throws my way with grace. humor and peace
Diary
Inspired by Julia Cameron’s Morning Pages, I start most days with a journal. I jot down three to five pages of notes, a written stream of consciousness, covering everything from dreams to fears to moments of gratitude to shopping lists. It’s a brain clearing exercise that eases my squirrel brain into the day. If I do it consistently, I’ll see threads that need connection: an idea I want to explore, a painting to try, a yearning to travel, a relationship that needs attention. I do this practice first thing in the morning, before the rest of my household wakes up, with some tea or coffee, sleepy-eyed, and still in my pajamas.
Where I used to rush in the morning and off to the next crisis of the day, I now have a few simple rituals I found to keep me grounded, living with intention, and ready to face whatever the world throws at me.
Meditation
I’m not one of those people who naturally LOVES meditation. I often struggle to get into this practice, but the side effects keep me coming back again and again. Most days, I take a break at noon (before or after lunch), set aside ten to thirty minutes, and sit still. One day, I hope to be a silent meditator, but for now, I’m a big fan of Insight Timer’s guided meditations, especially anything by Sarah Blondin or Lalah Delia. Taking a little break, especially on the busiest of days, keeps my energy consistent, open, and flowing from a state of love and gratitude.
Rest
As a mother, I see firsthand the value of my son resting when life is hectic. Only recently have I begun to apply this lesson to my own life, taking the occasional mid-afternoon break to read under a blanket or rest my eyes for twenty to thirty minutes. I’m still a nap wannabe, but for me, this quick disconnect gives my brain and body the boost it needs to go back to my day with a fresh perspective.
Slowness and mindful practices can and should vary for each person, for each day, and for each stage of life. What works for me, right now, may not work for me tomorrow, or for you the next day. Experimenting and trying new ways to connect with yourself, to slow down, even if just for a few minutes each day, is a great way to find presence in the present moment. To bring clarity and curiosity to your routine. To show you as the best version of yourself, connected and curious, in your work, your relationships, your world.
Jill Elliott is an artist, wallpaper designer, and writer who is constantly searching for inspiration and balance. You can find Jill’s original wallpaper and art at Color Kind Studio. She can often be found making art and messes with her daughter and her puppy.
