The Importance of Slowing Down

As a fourth-year law student with a busy social and work life, I often struggle to prioritise slowing down. I’ve always understood its value, but it was something I could never quite manage to incorporate into a consistent routine. Over the past year, however, I’ve begun to slow down unintentionally, finding stress relief and the ability to unwind in small, everyday moments.

I used to put pressure on myself to ‘schedule’ relaxation, which often defeated its purpose. I’d allocate time to be social or to disconnect from the stress of university, but always felt the need to maximise those moments, ultimately adding another layer of pressure. While I still do my best to maintain balance by catching up with friends, staying active, going on walks, etc. I’ve found that the most meaningful moments of calm have come when I least expected them. These unintentional pauses have brought me a sense of gratitude and a deeper appreciation for the life around me.

As someone who tends to be a high-strung person and easily overwhelmed, these moments have been vital in gaining perspective. For instance, while travelling I found the most comfort landing back in Melbourne. Looking out at the tiny houses and blocks of land below reminded me of how small my problems really are in the grand scheme of things. Or at the hot springs, simply being around others who were also taking time to unwind helped me let go of the guilt I’d previously associated with slowing down.

I suppose the point I’m trying to make is this: don’t overlook the value of slowing down and taking time to relax and rest. Providing myself with moments of calm has brought far more good than harm, and that good has lasted well beyond the moment itself. I often think back to these unintentional moments of serenity, remembering the clarity they gave me; that even when I feel weighed down by stress, there is so much more to life than the pressure I am carrying. 

While there’s undeniable value in scheduling moments to disconnect from stress, don’t underestimate the power of the unplanned, unintentional moments of peace.

Written by Juliette Sklavos