Embracing the Intentional Slow Living Lifestyle:

Jessica Elkins
Family Matters
Published in
6 min readJul 5, 2023

A Haven for Adults and Children

Today’s world is filled with endless tasks, constant distractions, and a never-ending race against time. In the chaos, it’s easy to overlook the simple joys that life has to offer. But what if there was a way to slow down, to savor each moment, and to create a haven of tranquility amidst the chaos? Enter the intentional slow living lifestyle, a gentle invitation to reconnect with ourselves, our loved ones, and the beauty of the world around us. With its warm embrace and profound benefits, this lifestyle beckons adults and children alike to step off the relentless treadmill and into a world of serenity.

At its core, intentional slow living is about consciously choosing to prioritize what truly matters, to relish in the present, and to cultivate a deep appreciation for the little things that often go unnoticed. It’s a heartfelt rebellion against the pressure to constantly be busy, to achieve more, and to accumulate material possessions. Instead, it offers a respite — a chance to savor the sweetness of life.

For adults, intentional slow living is a balm for the soul. It gently nudges us to take a step back, to evaluate our priorities, and to let go of the unnecessary stress that plagues our daily lives. It reminds us that we are not mere machines, but complex beings with emotions, dreams, and desires. By embracing this lifestyle, we create the space and time to nurture our relationships, to pursue our passions, and to cultivate self-care and self-reflection.

In the warm embrace of intentional slow living, adults find solace in the art of doing less. It encourages them to savor a cup of tea, to linger over a home-cooked meal, and to engage in meaningful conversations with loved ones. It invites us to rediscover the joy of reading a book, taking a leisurely walk in nature, or simply basking in the beauty of a sunset. In doing so, we not only reconnect with ourselves but also with the world around us — a world that often goes unnoticed in the rush of modern life.

But intentional slow living is not only a haven for adults; it is also a precious gift we can bestow upon our children. In a society that often pushes them to grow up too fast, with constant pressures to achieve and succeed, intentional slow living offers a counterbalance — an opportunity for them to experience the simple wonders of childhood and to develop into well-rounded individuals.

By embracing a slower pace, children have the chance to explore their creativity, to engage in unstructured play, and to foster their imagination. They can revel in the joy of building sandcastles on the beach, of climbing trees in the park, or of discovering the enchantment of a butterfly dancing on a summer breeze. Intentional slow living allows children to savor the magic of their surroundings and to cultivate a sense of wonder that will accompany them throughout their lives.

Intentional slow living provides a nurturing environment for meaningful connections between parents and children. It encourages quality time spent together, free from distractions and the incessant rush of daily life. In this slower pace, parents can fully engage with their children, truly listening to their thoughts, dreams, and fears. They can create memories through shared experiences, such as family outings, storytelling, or cooking together. These moments become the building blocks of a strong, loving bond that will shape a child’s future and provide them with a secure foundation to navigate the complexities of life.

In the intentional slow living lifestyle, both adults and children benefit from the inherent emphasis on mindfulness and self-care. Mindfulness allows us to be fully present, to appreciate the beauty of the present moment, and to cultivate gratitude. Whether it’s through meditation, deep breathing, or simply paying attention to our surroundings, mindfulness helps us to slow down and appreciate the richness of life.

Self-care, another vital aspect of intentional slow living, is a practice that encourages us to prioritize our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. In a world that often glorifies busyness and neglects self-care, intentional slow living offers a gentle reminder that taking care of ourselves is not selfish but necessary for our overall happiness and fulfillment. When adults and children alike prioritize self-care, they cultivate a sense of inner peace, resilience, and balance.

Intentional slow living also fosters a deep connection to nature — a connection that is vital for our well-being. It beckons us to step outside, to breathe in the fresh air, and to immerse ourselves in the beauty of the natural world. Whether it’s tending to a garden, going for a hike, or simply sitting under a tree, spending time in nature has been scientifically proven to reduce stress, increase happiness, and improve our overall mental and physical health. For children, it offers a profound opportunity to learn about the wonders of the earth, to develop empathy towards all living beings, and to instill a sense of environmental responsibility.

In the intentional slow living lifestyle, technology takes a backseat. While technology has undoubtedly brought numerous advancements and conveniences, it has also contributed to the relentless pace of modern life and the constant stimulation that can be overwhelming for both adults and children. By intentionally disconnecting from screens and digital distractions, we create space for deeper connections, reflection, and the cultivation of our creativity. Unplugging allows us to be fully present in the moment, to engage in meaningful conversations, and to foster genuine connections with our loved ones.

Ultimately, intentional slow living is a warm and loving invitation to savor the beauty of life. It encourages us to find joy in the ordinary, to appreciate the little things, and to live in alignment with our values and passions. It invites us to create a sanctuary of peace and authenticity — a haven where we can nurture our relationships, cultivate self-care, and engage with the world around us in a meaningful way.

Join me and let us embrace this way of life with open arms. Let us revel in the beauty of simplicity, in the art of doing less but being more. Let us prioritize what truly matters and create a haven of warmth, love, and tranquility for ourselves and our children. In the deliberate choice to slow down, we will rediscover the magic that exists in every moment, and we will find that the intentional slow living lifestyle is not just the best for adults and children, but a transformative journey towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

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Jessica Elkins
Family Matters

Jessica is a published author who has ghostwritten two novels. She’s now a homeschooling, work-from-home mom of 3 who is trying to achieve a balance.