Some days, everything feels a bit too much. You’re like a spinning top, whirling non-stop. Deadlines pile up, your phone won’t stop ringing, and your to-do list seems endless. I know that feeling.
When was the last time you sat quietly, just breathing? Or took a stroll under the trees, gazing at the blue sky? When did you last feel the warm sun on your skin? Or simply enjoy a meal without rushing?
If it’s been so long you can’t remember, this post might be just for you.
Now, you might be thinking, “But I have so much to do!”. Get it. But here’s the thing – the power of pausing can actually help you do more, and do it better.
Why?
Well, let’s find out together…
Table of Contents
Why Slowing Down is a Power Move
Slowing down and taking a pause – it might sound a bit lazy. But how can it actually make your life better?
You see, sometimes doing less can help you achieve more. Odd, isn’t it? But it’s true.
Improved relationships
When we take a moment to stop, we can really connect with others. We don’t have to rush through talks – we can truly listen. We can understand where others are coming from. It’s like turning down the background noise so we can hear the person in front of us better.
Making better choices
Pausing also helps us make better choices. How many times have you told someone something in anger and later felt bad about it? We give ourselves time to think about things when we stop. We’re giving our brains a chance to catch up with how we feel.
Increased productivity
You might also be interested to know that pausing can help you get more done. I know, it seems wrong, doesn’t it? Just think about it: have you ever been so tired that even small things took a long time? That’s because to work well, our brains need to rest. The power of pausing gives our thoughts a break that they need. It’s like giving your brain a fresh start.
Enhanced creativity
Also, the power of pausing can help you come up with new ideas. We stick to what we know when we’re in a hurry. But when it’s quiet, new thoughts can come to mind. Giving your mind space to play is like that.
Improved physical health
Your body will thank you for pausing, too. Stress affects our health, but taking breaks can help.
Greater emotional well-being
Also, let’s not forget how we feel. We can better understand how we feel when we take a moment to pause. “Hey, how am I really doing?” is like checking in with yourself. In tough times, this can help us deal with things better and feel calmer.
Why Pausing is So Hard for Us
Sometimes the simplest things can be the hardest to do. It’s tricky in the hustle and bustle of daily life, I must confess. You’re not alone in this. Not one bit.
Here are reasons why taking a pause is so hard for us. You might find yourself.
Fear of missing out
We worry about losing touch in a world full of alerts and updates all the time. How come we might miss a crucial message? What if something interesting happens while we’re pausing? This fear can keep us busy all the time and make it hard to take a step back.
Discomfort with stillness
Let’s be honest, sitting quietly with our thoughts can be uncomfortable at first. Our brains are used to noise and stimulation all the time. We might find thoughts or feelings we’ve been avoiding when we take a moment to pause. We might want to grab our phones or do something else to avoid having to sit through this pain.
Habit and routine
People are very habitual, and a lot of us have habits that don’t include breaks. It can be hard to break these deeply ingrained habits. Like writing with the hand you don’t normally use—at first, it feels weird and awkward.
Things in the environment
The things around us can make it hard to pause. You might work in a busy office where people are always coming in and out. Or maybe you’re a parent whose little kids need your attention all the time. In these situations, it can seem hard to find a moment of peace.
Try to be perfect
We all have trouble with the idea that we need to “pause perfectly.” We feel like we need to clear our thoughts or meditate for an hour. We might not be able to take small, reasonable breaks during the day if we think “all or nothing.”
Not getting answers right away
When you take a break, the rewards often build up over time. It’s not like working out, where you might feel an endorphin rush right away. When we don’t see effects right away, this can make it hard to keep up the practice.
Technology addiction
It’s no secret that our devices are made to keep us busy. With all of social media’s alerts, messages, and never-ending scrolls, it’s hard to take a break. It would be like ignoring a plate of cookies that is right in front of you.
Societal expectations
Our society often values being busy and always getting things done. It can feel like you’re not living up to societal standards when you take a moment to pause. It’s like swimming against the current of our “always-on” culture.
How to Actually Take a Pause
Slowing down and pausing sounds great, but how? The truth is, taking a pause may be simpler than you might think.
Mindful breathing
One of the easiest ways to pause is to focus on your breath.
Take a big breath in through your nose. Feel your lungs get bigger. Wait a second. Now, slowly breathe it out. Feel the air leave your body. It’s like pressing the pause button on your day.
Try doing this three times in a row. You might feel a bit calmer already. This is great because you can do it while you wait for the kettle to boil, while you’re stuck in traffic, or even while you’re in a meeting.
Meditation with a body scan
Checking in with your body is another way to take a break. Slowly pay attention to how each part of your body feels as you move up. Take note of any places that feel tight or uncomfortable. Don’t try to change anything, just observe.
Sensory awareness
Start with what you can hear. Pay close attention. Do you hear birds singing? Do you hear traffic far away? The sound of your computer? What do you smell now? It could be the smell of your hand cream or the coffee in the kitchen.
How do you feel? How your clothes feel when they touch your skin? How hot or cold is the air? Last but not least, what do you see? Look around and notice five things you hadn’t spotted before.
It’s like waking up your senses and bringing yourself into the present moment.
Gratitude practice
Right now, list three things you’re grateful for. Perhaps your favourite chair, a friend who made you laugh today, or the sun outside. Give each one your full attention for a moment.
You can change your brain from worry mode to praise mode by doing this simple thing. You’ll feel so much better after just one minute of being thankful.
Stretching or movement
Movement can be a form of pausing too. A few gentle stretches or a short walk can help clear your mind. It’s like pressing the reset button on your body and brain.
Nature connection
Don’t forget about the outdoors either. Take a short walk outside if you can. Feel the air on your face. Listen for sounds from nature, like birds, bugs, and the wind blowing through leaves.
Being in nature, even for a short time, can be very calming. It’s like reminding ourselves that we’re part of something bigger.
Utilise technology mindfully
Technology can help us pause, too, if we use it mindfully.
Put apps and reminders on hold: You can set your computer or phone to tell you to take breaks during the day. There are also a lot of apps that offer guided meditations, breathing exercises, and other tools for being more aware.
Digital detox: Take breaks from technology often, especially right before bed. This can help you sleep better and feel less stressed.
Mindful social media use: Be intentional about how you use social media. Set limits on your screen time and avoid scrolling mindlessly.
The Lasting Word
It takes a lot of bravery to stop in the middle of life’s chaos.
It asks us to trust that the world won’t fall apart if we slow down. And truly, it doesn’t.
Instead, in those quiet moments, we discover beauty in the little things. We find our inner strength and hear our inner voice.
Be patient with yourself, be curious, and see what happens. You might just find that in those quiet moments of pause, life becomes richer, clearer, and more beautiful than you ever imagined.
It’s the power of pausing.
☕Head to The Quieter for more insightful articles and inspiring stories on mindful living, personal growth and relationships to nurture your mind and soul.
