What Slowness Can Teach You, Even in an Active Life
In a world that values speed, productivity, and efficiency at all costs, choosing slowness may seem counterintuitive. And yet, it’s often by slowing down that we rediscover meaning, grounding… and energy.
Why Our Era Glorifies Speed
A Race with No Finish Line
Modern life pushes us to do more, faster: replying to emails instantly, rushing through projects, all while juggling a busy personal life. Speed is praised as a sign of performance. But at what cost?
The Illusion of “Saving Time”
We think we’re saving time by going faster, but often we lose it in quality, focus, and connection to ourselves. The result: mental overload, chronic fatigue, and a sense of missing out on our own lives.
What Slowness Can Truly Offer You
Living the Present Moment More Fully
Slowness is the art of being fully present. It invites you to savor, observe, and feel—rather than just do. It’s a return to the moment, often overlooked in the rush of daily life.
Better Decision-Making Quality
By slowing down, we create space to reflect, sort through things, and listen to our real needs. Decisions become more aligned and less impulsive. Slowness then becomes a strategic tool.
A Deep Reconnection with Yourself… and with Others
Walking slowly, breathing consciously, listening without interrupting—simple acts that restore presence and connection. Slowness brings a human dimension back to our interactions.
How to Embrace Slowness in a Busy Daily Life
Create Micro-Moments of Pause
Even in the busiest schedules, three minutes of deep breathing, a phone-free lunch, or a walk without a goal can make all the difference.
Disconnect to Reconnect Better
Slowness also comes through digital disconnection: turning off notifications, putting your phone on silent for a few hours… You’ll see that the world keeps turning.
Reevaluate Your Priorities
Slowing down also means making choices: not everything can be urgent, and not everything deserves an immediate response. It’s a lifestyle habit we need to relearn.
Slowness and Expat Life: A Return to Your Roots
For French and Francophone expatriates, slowness is also a way to reconnect with a culture of conviviality, sharing, and taking time for oneself. It’s not a luxury—it’s a necessity for staying grounded while living far from home.
Treat Yourself to a French-Style Slowness Break
At Wellness Voyages, we’ve designed short wellness getaways (2 days) and deeper immersions (several days) specifically for expatriates. These experiences offer a chance to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with the essence of France—even from thousands of miles away: the art of taking your time.
Discover our wellness retreats for expatriates, and make slowness your new strength.