Have you ever felt like life is speeding by and leaving you dizzy in the dust of its path? One moment, you might be soaking in the sunshine with a dreamy smile, and the next, you're overwhelmed by events, family demands, and a seemingly endless to-do list. I found myself in this exact whirlwind, feeling stressed-out and exhausted. That was my wake-up call to take a step back and embrace a more mindful approach to life. Intentionally slowing down has really been helping my day-to-day experiences in the most positive of ways.
My realization began during an abnormally busy week. Saying yes to too many events, between family commitments, household duties, school work and extracurricular activities with the kids, volunteering and committing to all the school activities, and squeezing in hobbies like yoga and art, I felt like I was running on empty. Catching myself wondering where the time had gone and why I had allowed my schedule to become so chaotic. At the same time, I was feeling like I wasn’t getting much of anything accomplished. The tipping point came when I snapped at one of my children over something so negligible. At that moment, seeing the look on my child’s face, I recognized that the chaos was robbing me of joy and moments that could be precious with my family. A change of course was necessary. Reacting in such a way is not the example I want to lead my kids with.
Mindfulness is about love and loving life. When you cultivate this love, it gives you clarity and compassion for your life, and your actions happen in accordance with that. ~Jon Kabat-Zinn
Mindfulness is something I’ve always thought I resorted to, but now could see that I didn’t implement it as my automatic go-to. Yes, it means being present and engaged, but with so many tasks demanding my attention, it felt unattainable. So, I dove into learning about simple mindfulness practices that I could utilize anytime throughout any day I face. Here are a few ways I have learned to apply mindfulness to carry me through my days:
Embracing Nature
One of my significant breakthroughs came from reconnecting with nature, a love I had often sidelined. Painting nature is one thing (which you know I love to do, as often as I can), however making a conscious effort to integrate nature into my mindfulness approach by actually going out of doors to be in the thick of it is life altering.
A peaceful hiking trail surrounded by lush greenery.
Trekking up the steep slopes of a hill to overlook vast lakes in the middle of a National Forest.
Swinging in a hammock next to a river settled against rocky cliffs.
Taking a nature walk around our property.
During my walks, hikes, and travel I started focusing on fully engaging with my surroundings. Taking note of every organism that God has created. Savoring the sound of the leaves, the smell of the earth, warmth of the sun on my head, and the feel of the breeze on my skin. Yes, noticing the creepy looking insects too! Awe-struck by all God has created for us to enjoy! This deep connection to nature not only grounds me but also fosters gratitude for the loveliness around me. There’s a calm confidence that comes over me when I can have these moments amidst creation.
Mindful Mornings
To enhance my mindfulness, I began setting aside time each morning for intentional practices. Instead of reaching for my phone immediately, thanks to reducing my influx of digital clutter, I now start my day with purpose. Here’s a glimpse into my typical morning routine now after I see the kids and my handsome husband off to school and work:
Quiet time: Having complete quiet to read my bible and choose an affirmation to dwell on for the day, or even for the week, centers me. This simple act sets a positive tone for my day and reminds me of what truly matters.
Yoga and Meditation: Rolling out my yoga mat, I release any tensions during my practice for about 30-45 minutes. Following it up with dedicating just a few minutes for deep breathing and quiet reflection. This time for myself allows me to ground my thoughts and prepare for the day.
Mindful Preparation: I now take care of myself by always getting cleaned up for the day then putting some mascara on and a dab of blush. Gone are the days of rushing and not pampering myself a little; I savor this time to get my day on to the best start to be more productive.
At first, it felt awkward, as if I was wasting valuable time that could go toward chores or other activities, but gradually I discovered how refreshing these still, quiet moments were; they truly help clear my mental clutter and center my energy. This shift in my morning routine has significantly impacted my mood and energy levels throughout the day.
Mindfulness with my Family
I also introduced mindfulness into my family life. Marcus and I agreed to have “tech-free” times during meals and other chosen activities to fully engage with one another without distractions. During our family dinners, we share not only a meal together, but also our thoughts and stories from the day (even if we have to pry it out of our teenager haha). Truly though, it opens up conversations we wouldn’t otherwise have if we weren’t intentional about it. Sometimes we even play games together! These family moments have deepened our connections and added joy and laughter that often get lost in our busy days.
A Mindful Approach to Being a Homemaker
In homemaking, I started to incorporate mindfulness as well. Taking short breaks to stretch, breathe, or step outside for some fresh air has improved my focus and productivity so much. Instead of rushing from task to task, I designate specific times for focused work followed by brief segments of time to recharge. For someone like me, who often feels the self-created pressure to maximize every minute, this approach has been revolutionary.
Slow down and enjoy life. It’s not only the scenery you miss by going too fast – you also miss the sense of where you are going and why. ~Eddie Cantor
Incorporating mindfulness is bringing many benefits to my life! Integrating pauses and short breaks throughout the day has led to a noticeable reduction in my stress levels. Studies show that regular mindfulness practices can reduce stress by up to 30%. I am better able to concentrate, thanks to the intentional breaks I now take to reset my mind and get centered. My connections with my little family and my friends have deepened, allowing for more meaningful interactions. I now find more happiness in simple pleasures, from enjoying a cup of coffee to marveling at a sunset.
All-in-all, embracing mindfulness and slowing down has transformed my life in incredible ways. While the journey required practice and consistency, the small changes I made—whether through dedicated morning routines, joyful family moments, or simply immersing myself in nature—have radically shifted my perspective.
If you often feel overwhelmed by life’s pace, consider taking a moment to breathe deeply, maybe for a couple minutes, and incorporate mindfulness into your routine. It just might help you rediscover the happiness and fulfillment I have found along my own journey.
What’s stopping you?! Take those deep breaths and start your mindfulness journey now!
Let me know your thoughts down below in the comments. I'd love to hear what you do that helps you live more mindfully.
Sending each of you loads of Love & Light,
~Cassie
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