Power of Slow

The tingling sensation of true mind suspension is a delightful thing indeed. I am not talking about dropping acid or snorting something funny. I am referring more to the restorative powers of taking time off.

You haven’t heard from me in a while — in true slow style I took a much-needed online break, also known as vacation. And it was delightful. Admittedly, I wasn’t 100% offline because, after all, we had to post some of our snapshots on Facebook, then delight in people’s reactions. It is a different world now and the pull to share is strong. So we did. A little bit.

But the main focus of our vacation was conversation, sunshine, warmth and, yes, a glass or five of wine. We allowed ourselves to drift away from the every day problems of raising children, negotiating work or the rest of our lives for that matter. We filled our heads with new ideas, sights and smells. We ate whatever we wanted when we wanted it.

It felt good to be that free.

Moving out of our minds and into our hearts was a welcome, relaxing change. It filled us and gave us memories, which will last a lifetime.

The most delightful part of being away was coming home again. The flavor of warmth was similar to the Floridian skies — a calming sense of familiarity washed over me despite the distance of days that had separated us. My apartment felt strangely cold and empty, awaiting our return to replenish the laughter these walls have often absorbed.

It is good to be out of our minds for a little while, to turn the lights down low and to reconnect with the deepest part of ourselves. Removing distraction is healthy and, in today’s hyperconncted world, a necessity for mental health.

When we fill our well to the brim, we have more to share with others.

Replenish your soul often. It is what will give you the strength and courage to go on — no matter what.