The Power Of Stillness
There is immense power in stillness – it is the path back to yourself, to a sound mind, body and spirit.
Our world is such a noisy and demanding place and most of us have a hard time knowing what it looks like to be still. Yet, amidst the endless hurry and hustle, there lies tremendous power in slowing down, embracing moments of stillness, and deliberately choosing to cultivate inner peace.
Entering the new year with a slow-living mindset that makes time for mindful moments is a path to health and healing, to contentment and happiness, and to deeply connect to our hearts and souls.
To reflect, to ponder. To be aware. To reset and replenish. To just be.
When we get off the hamster wheel and are intentionally still amidst the chaos, clarity comes, and our energy reserves are restored. Taking micro-moments to pause, to breathe, to quiet our nervous systems and minds provides significant physical and mental health benefits.
Adopting a slower pace with moments of stillness encourages reflection, restoration and relaxation and benefits our bodies by reducing stress, lowering blood pressure, providing better sleep, richer connections, and a deeper understanding of our needs, desires and direction for personal growth.
Slowing down allows us to be more connected to our surroundings, come up with new ideas and solutions, and be present in the moment. It’s not about doing less. It’s about changing your mindset and focusing on what’s truly important to you and your well-being. It allows you to connect with your inner being and find peace, presence and possibilities.
When you’re not rushing, you will find mindful moments that are inspiring, healing and insightful. These don’t have to be big moments of stillness – simple, small, purposeful acts where we let go of the busyness and set all the doing aside for a brief few minutes. To tune into our bodies and listen to what life is trying to tell us. What we need to hear.
Yes, the body and mind are nourished from invigorating movement, but we also benefit greatly from taking a deep breath and slowing down with intention. Find time in the day to be still. Be grounded and present.
Make the moments as basic and simple as possible – it can happen in an elevator, waiting in line at Starbucks or at a red light. Think of it as an extended exhale for the mind, body and soul.
Just be still. Tap into your mind and soul. Pause to check in with yourself. We can be still even when it’s not silent, even when we are not alone.
Notice your breathing for a few minutes. Observe the inhalation and the exhalation, and even the pauses in between. Slow it down and be aware of the stillness of movement, even in one’s breath.
If you feel the impulse to stimulate your brain, try to redirect your focus to the quiet, present moment.
Pay attention to something in your physical space. If you’re out walking, stop from time to time and listen for the sounds around you. Be still and feel the air on your skin. Take in the scents around you. Notice how you are standing and moving.
When you are upset, be still. Don’t react. Go inward and take a moment before responding. See your thoughts and feelings. Take a few breaths. Allowing for a pause can be the difference between a healthy connection and a contentious conversation.
Practice quietness in self-care – be immersed in a head massage, reflexology, a warm bath, and listening to your favourite song. Make a cup of herbal tea – sip it slowly and let its warmth and aroma heal your mind, body and soul.
Find stillness in gratitude. Think of two things you are grateful for. Big or small, they all count.
Retreat to our sanctuary of stillness – Ste. Anne’s Spa provides a quiet healing space, a pause button for your soul where you slow down, quiet the mind and cultivate calm away from the chaos of life. Bask in a slow mindset, a new pace, and welcome the rhythms of health-giving stillness into your life.
Commit to creating intentional moments of awareness each day. There are thousands of ways presented to us each and every day. Choose one and practice. Give yourself permission to slow down and be still. Start with 5 minutes and build. Be kind and patient. Soon, it will be a habit.
This new year, let’s slow down and embrace the transformative power of stillness and its remarkable healing potential on our beautiful journey to optimal health and well-being.
