Slow is The New Fast

We are so caught up in the roadrunner way of living that we have overlooked the toll that hyperspeed takes on well-being and simplicity.

In his latest book, In Praise of Slowness: Challenging the Cult of Speed, author Carl Honore speaks to expressions of the dis-ease of our rushaholic society: speed dating, speed reading, fast food.

Carl spoke about slowness at this year’s TED (a yearly roundup of the latest ideas from key thinkers in technology, entertainment, and design). He used his talk to point to the grand opportunity we have to redefine our concept of time.

Thankfully, the popularity of books like Eckhart Tolle’s The Power of Now and the growth of what is becoming known as the "international slow movement" reveal how slowness can transform the experience of living on the planet. By slowing down at the right moments, we can vastly improve the quality of experience in our lives.

Think about these two ideas: "slow food" and "slow sex." Aren't the the simple pleasures of food and lovemaking where we really want to slow down and savor the moment? Doesn't it sound wonderful?

Naturally, slowness is a way of life. And with it comes relaxation!

My spiritual teacher Amma emphasizes the importance of relaxation in all things. This quote is framed on the wall of the travel office in her ashram temple in Kerala, India:

Children, learn to be relaxed in all circumstances.
Whatever you do and wherever you are, relax and you will see how powerful it is.
The art of relaxation brings out the power that exists within you; through relaxation you can experience your infinite capacities.
It is the art of making your mind still, and focusing all your energy on the work you are doing, whatever it may be.
Thus you will be able to bring out all of your potential.
Once you learn this art, everything happens spontaneously and effortlessly.

All of us can benefit from slowing down. Take a moment, slow down, relax. And experience the benefit.