We all have many good reasons to slow down. But in the whirlwind of life, it’s all too easy to get caught up in the rush, leaving little room for reflection or self-care. Yet, for those of us living through the aftermath of loss of a loved one to alcohol dependency or addiction, the necessity of slowing down takes on a much more profound significance. I was reminded of this recently as I started a new focus on practising being present.
After losing my husband Chris to alcoholism, It didn’t feel like I was making any progress with my self-care until I decided to deliberately slow down. Even then, it’s taken some time to learn to be present. I have always been on the go, juggling far too many balls, work, kids, work, kids. I often think of my mom and my gramma, who were also both always busy. I wish I could have taught them the joys of being still. But, I can support you on this journey.
Here are my 6 really good reasons to slow down.
Feel Emotional Restoration
Slowing down allows us the precious space we need to become aware of the whirlwind of emotions we feel, especially after loss. It enables us to acknowledge and feel the spectrum of our complicated grief. Somehow, we instinctively learn how to feel a bit at a time. The more we feel, the less those emotions hold power over us and we can let them go – creating space for joy.
Discover Mindful Reflection
Through embracing a slower pace, you can engage in mindful reflection. You can also nurture a deeper awareness of your own experiences and emotions, fostering a sense of clarity and inner peace.
Reduce Your Stress
The act of slowing down inherently reduces stress levels, providing solace to an overburdened mind and body. This respite from the ceaseless demands of daily life creates an environment for healing, both physically and emotionally.
Become Awake
Slowing down allows you to be more attuned to the present moment, enabling a heightened awareness of the world around you. This newfound awareness feels like waking up, fostering a deeper connection with your surroundings. You will experience a sense of gratitude and grounding even in the midst of adversity.
Cultivate Resilience
By intentionally stepping away from the rapid pace of life, you can develop a greater sense of resilience. This serves as a guiding light, empowering you to confront challenges with a newfound strength and fortitude which will keep you on a path towards long-term healing and growth.
A really good reason to slow down is that you’ll find Joy when you do
Fostering the ability to slow down, to be still, be present, away from the turmoil of overthinking and internal suffering is where we can find happiness and joy. This makes all the effort worthwhile.
In the journey of healing from the traumatic aftermath of addiction or alcoholism, the power of slowing down cannot be overstated. Slowing down serves as a healing balm, enabling you to find solace in the present moment and foster the resilience needed to navigate the complex emotions accompanying bereavement. As we learn to slow down, we embark on a transformative path towards wellbeing and inner peace.
You don’t have to walk this journey alone. Learning to slow down and practice self-care is easier together. Join others who understand the heartache and together commit to your self-care, to finding the courage to be you along a guided healing journey. Join the Blossome Community.
Kim Moore is the Founder of Blossome CIC. She lost her husband Chris to alcoholism in 2017. She faced a difficult journey while raising 2 children alone, with her family living on the opposite side of the world. Kim founded the Blossome Community and The Pathway to Peace healing journey so no one would have to feel alone while enduring the trauma of a loved one’s battle with alcoholism or addiction. She is also on a mission to end the generational cycle of alcoholism and addiction in families.
