Intentional Living

  • Simple Living

    I want to invite you into my simple living community.

    I am beyond thrilled to finally spill the beans on something I’ve been passionately working on for the past 18 months – introducing The Slow Living Collective Membership Community! If you caught a sneak peek in last week’s email, you already know the excitement I’m talking about.

    And guess what? The doors are officially open, welcoming new members to join the movement. The cherry on top? It’s all happening on Substack, meaning you’ll find the good stuff directly in your inbox, hassle-free.

    This project has been a labour of love, and I can’t express how eager I am to share it with you. So, sit back, relax, and let me take you on a journey into the heart of slow living. Welcome to The Slow Living Collective!

    Why a paid community, and why now?

    For quite some time, I’ve yearned for something more — more community, deeper connections, and a space to engage with kindred spirits. This longing gave birth to The Slow Living Collective, and now, I’m eager to delve into the ‘collective’ aspect of this mission. It’s a space where I can explore more profoundly, connecting with individuals who share my thoughts and feelings. It’s a chance to offer support and inspiration to those just beginning their journeys into simple living. After all, we were all beginners once.

    My inclination to resist societal norms has only grown stronger over time. The more I learn and evolve, the more I find solace in stepping away from the rat race and the monotony of modern societal living. I’ve come to realise the power in simplicity, in true alignment with oneself. What’s most uplifting is discovering a community of like-minded individuals who share similar sentiments.

    Some are taking their first steps on this path, while others have been here for a while. Yet, we all share common intentions, feelings, and ideas. We aspire to a life that is slower, simpler, intentional, and purposeful. A life that feels right, uniquely tailored to each individual. It’s not about dedicating ourselves to the hustle or grind but filling our lives with pockets of simplicity, each defined in our own way.

    So, why a membership?

    This decision has been a careful and contemplative journey for me, as I questioned whether it was the right path. I experimented with various approaches, learning more about what didn’t align with my vision. Returning to my essence, I found comfort in a place where accessibility is effortless — a place where everything I offer is within reach, whether on your phone, through an app, or in your inbox. It’s a realm of simplicity, of words, of community.

    On Substack. And this feels like the right choice.

    Social media, while an ok platform for sharing, doesn’t offer the depth I aspire to share. It’s a shared space, subject to the ebb and flow of followers, algorithms and owned by someone else. It’s a starting point, but not a space for delving into the meaningful topics that resonate.

    Confronting the initial discomfort of charging for my content, I took a moment to sit with myself. I realised that asking for payment is not just acceptable; it’s necessary. Over nearly two decades, I’ve contributed free content on the internet — guides, resources, ebooks, podcasts, and articles. I’ve shared abundantly without asking for payment, providing everything needed for embracing a slower, simpler life. Now, I yearn to go deeper, and there’s nothing wrong with valuing my work. It’s time to advocate for myself and the hard work invested in The Slow Living Collective, both online and offline.

    This membership option allows me to delve profoundly into my work — from yoga, mindfulness, and meditation to embracing slow, simple, and seasonal living. It’s a step that empowers both you and me to walk the path of simplicity, authenticity, and intention more intentionally. Together.

    So, what’s included in The Slow Living Collective Membership?

    First and foremost, it’s crucial to emphasise that there will be no changes to my free content. I’ll continue to write weekly on topics related to slow, simple, and intentional living. Free resources, guides, and content will still be produced to assist you on your journey to simplicity. Recognising that additional paid content may not fit into everyone’s budget, this commitment to free content will continue.

    The membership is an opportunity to delve deeper, forge stronger connections, and find support on your journey—both from me and fellow members. In a world that rushes by, leaving many feeling overwhelmed and disconnected, this community stands as a sanctuary where you can:

    • Dive deeper into the path of slowing down and embracing simplicity.
    • Explore profound topics related to slow living, simplicity, and intentionality.
    • Connect with like-minded individuals who share your values and provide support.
    • Learn from experts in the fields of slow living, mindfulness, and intentional living.
    • Access exclusive additional resources, workshops, and content to bolster your journey to simplicity.
    • Cultivate a profound appreciation for slow, simple, and seasonal living, harmonising with nature.
    • Access more content on yogic and mindful living to aid your journey to simplicity.
    • Enjoy premium monthly podcast episodes.
    • Participate in the monthly Simplicity Circle for paid members (live, with recordings available shortly after).
    • And much more.

    A Community That Supports You

    The Slow Living Collective isn’t just a community; it’s a lifeline for those seeking a calmer, more meaningful existence. Here, you’ll find the encouragement and knowledge you need to make lasting changes in your life.

    What you can expect from our community:

    • Members-only insiders podcast and Substack posts monthly.
    • Exclusive Instagram stories.
    • Access to exclusive workshops, webinars, and courses.
    • A dedicated chat for paid members.
    • Discounts on courses and workshops.
    • And much, much more.
    Join The Slow Living Collective Membership

    The Slow Living Collective Membership Community stands as a sanctuary for those desiring a more serene and purposeful lifestyle. Within our welcoming and supportive environment, members can uncover the art of slowing down, simplifying their lives, and discovering meaning in every moment.

    With exclusive entry to resources, workshops, and a community of kindred spirits, our collective empowers members to lead purposeful lives, cultivate mindfulness, and attune themselves to the rhythms of the seasons. Together, we cultivate a space where the elegance of simplicity and mindful living can be fully embraced, enriching our lives with balance, gratitude, and harmony.

    My ultimate goal is to create a nurturing space where we all feel held and supported on our journey towards simplicity. Whether you opt for the paid membership or remain a free subscriber, rest assured that my commitment to providing free content remains unchanged. Expect continued guidance in crafting the slow and simple life you aspire to.

    Join as a Free or Paid Member

    I express deep gratitude to each of you, and I eagerly anticipate exploring the realms of simplicity with all of you in 2024.

  • Simple Living

    Jumpstart Your Simple Living Journey with These Easy Tips

    Have you heard about living more simply and been intrigued? Has slowing down your life been on your radar but you just don’t know where to begin? Don’t worry – I’ve got you because I have been there too. Life in this modern world is busy, it’s bright, it’s always on, and sometimes we don’t necessarily know how to begin to slow our lives down. 

    A common question, or statement, I hear when I talk about slow and simple living is that people feel they can’t do it because they have a 9-5 job or they live what they consider to be a busy life. They have this idea of what it is ‘supposed’ to look like and feel like it’s completely unattainable for them.  Slow and simple living isn’t about never being busy, or not having those demands that sometimes seem like a lot. Instead, it is about finding ways in our already established lives to create slow and simple rhythms that help us create a more intentional life for ourselves. 

    What if I told you that whatever your life looks like there are things you can do to start to put slow and simple living in motion? These go-to slow and simple living tips will help you re-evaluate what busy means to you and help you implement areas of slowing down and simplicity in your life. Whatever that looks like in your life, these tips will help you live more intentionally, starting today.

    Leave hustle culture behind

    Leaving a multi-level marketing company and the onset of the global pandemic provided the perfect opportunity for me to reassess my life and fully embrace the art of slowing down. While the pandemic brought about immense challenges, it also granted our family the chance to reconsider our priorities and the way we choose to live. It was during those initial lockdown days that I first delved into the world of slow living. As we adapted to a life where work took place within the comforting confines of our home, I often found myself standing on my balcony, gazing out at a world in turmoil, and pondering the mysteries of the outside world. This practice still resonates with me today.

    Many aspects of slow living had already found their way into our lives, but this period marked the beginning of a profound transformation. As the world gradually reopened, I realised that I was in no rush to return to the fast-paced routines of the past. The significance of many things had shifted in my perspective, and I found solace in embracing a simpler, more intentional way of life.

    When you finally feel ready to leave hustle culture behind and embrace a slower, more intentional way of living, you can start by identifying your why. Ask yourself why you want to make this change and what truly matters to you. Is it more time with your family? Do you want to pursue a passion? Or do you just want to create a better balance in your life? When you start to pinpoint your motivations you will have a better idea of how to make decisions that align with your values. Your why will then become your anchor in this busy world, constantly reminding you of the path you want to take toward a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

    Declutter your space and mind

    When we think about decluttering we often think about tidying up and minimising our physical surroundings, but it is also a powerful practice that can extend to your mental landscape too. When you clear out the excess of the physical possessions that no longer serve you, you create room for mental clarity and peace. The act of decluttering becomes a metaphor for letting go of mental burdens, unnecessary worries, and distractions. As you simplify your physical space, you’ll often find that your mind follows suit, becoming less cluttered and more focused. It’s a beautiful synergy between our external environment and internal wellbeing, where the art of decluttering paves the way for a simpler, more intentional way of living.

    Decluttering your physical space and sometimes seem overwhelming, so start with a small, manageable area like a single drawer, shelf, or even your workspace. When you tackle a small space you start to accumulate small wins which will help your sense of accomplishment and motivate you to keep going. As you begin to declutter your physical space, pay attention to the sense of lightness and clarity it brings. This physical transformation so often leads to a mental one, which inspires you to re-evaluate clutter across your entire life. You can download my decluttering checklists from my shop here.

    Nourish your wellbeing through mindful living

    When you nourish your own wellbeing you start a holistic journey that starts with the practice of mindful living. It’s about being fully present in many of life’s moments, savouring the simplicity of lifes simple pleasure, and finding a balance in a world that can feel overwhelming as it encourages constant busyness. Mindful living isn’t a trend, it is a way to connect deeply with your inner self and the world around you. By practicing mindfulness you are better able to cultivate an awareness whereby you are better able to make conscious choices that along with your true values and desires. 

    When people hear the word Mindfulness they often think it requires sitting for hours, with a blank mind, in a meditative state, and therefore immediately dismiss it out of hand as something they don’t have time for. Incorporating mindfulness into your life doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing endeavor. Instead, you can choose just one small mindful activity that resonates with you. It could be mindful breathing, a short meditation, or enjoying a tea or coffee without interruptions: anything that feels manageable for you. When you start with one practice you can slowly ease yourself into the concept of mindfulness and how you can weave them into your daily routine. Every small step that you take will help contribute to your wellbeing and help you integrate slow and simple living into your everyday life. 

    How you can start to embrace Slow & Simple Living in your own life

    Are you yearning to hit the brakes and embrace a slower, more intentional way of living, but you’re unsure of where to begin? I’ve crafted this delightful freebie just for you, designed to kickstart your journey into the world of slow & simple living. It’s packed with practical tips to help you infuse slowness into every facet of your daily life.

    Begin your journey towards a slower, more simpler life.
    In a life that constantly feels fast-paced and on-the-go, are you longing to find the beauty in slowing down but aren’t sure how to begin?
     
    Look no further! I’ve crafted this delightful freebie to guide you in your quest to infuse slow living into every facet of your life, making the journey enjoyable and accessible.
    Thank you for subscribing!

    So there you have it! My go-to ways to help you start to embrace that slow and simple lifestyle you’ve been thinking of but haven’t had a clue where to start. Are you ready to embark on a journey of understanding what slow and simple living truly means and how to infuse it into your own life? Don’t forget to download the Slow & Simple Living Guide above. Also be sure to check out The Slow Living Collective Podcast where we unravel the essence of slow and simple living in our weekly episodes, providing practical steps and holding space for you to begin your transformative journey towards a more intentional and fulfilling life. 

    Feeling Overwhelmed?
    Get My Free Guide to Slow Down & Simplify Your Life
    Your no-fuss guide with simple, actionable steps to help you create a slower, calmer and more intentional life.
    Thank you for subscribing!
  • Simple Living

    Integrating Slow Living: 10 Ways to Embrace a More Intentional Life Today

    In an era dominated by rapid technological advancements, ever-shortening attention spans, and the constant rush of modern life, the philosophy of ‘slow living’ has emerged as a gentle counter-movement. It encourages mindfulness, simplicity, and cherishing and being present in each moment to create an intentional life.

    After the tumultuous wave of the global pandemic swept through our lives, I found myself at a profound crossroads. The previously unseen fragility of our fast-paced existence came to the fore, highlighting the volatility of the structures we’d so deeply relied upon. As the world around me went into a forced pause, I began to reevaluate the relentless rhythm at which I had been living, along with everything I thought to be true. The quiet solitude of the lockdowns made me confront the truth about the superficial hustle, and I yearned for more meaning, depth, and connection. It was this introspection that led me to embrace a slower, more intentional life—a life where I could savour each moment, cultivate deeper relationships, and find joy in simplicity. The pandemic, in its devastating wake, became the unexpected catalyst for my journey towards slow living, urging me to prioritise well-being over busyness and authentic experiences over fleeting pleasures.

    If you’re yearning for a more purposeful and present life, here are ten ways you can incorporate the principles of slow living into your life, starting today.

    1. Mindful Mornings for an Intentional Life

    Starting your day with mindful intention sets a harmonious tone for everything that follows. Rather than being swept away by the rush of to-dos and external pressures, taking a moment each morning to ground oneself creates a centered space from which one can operate. This practice, whether it’s through meditation, journaling, or simply a few deep breaths, allows us to align our actions with our core values, live more in alignment, respond rather than react to challenges, and cultivate a deeper awareness of the present moment. Such intentionality can help guide our choices and ensuring that each day unfolds with purpose and clarity.

    Begin your day with intention:

    • Digital Detox: Skip the instinct to check your phone first thing in the morning. Instead, greet the day with a stretch, a deep breath, or a moment of gratitude. Don’t check your phone for first 30 mins and instead get outside and get some sunlight instead.
    • Slow Breakfast: Rather than rushing through a meal, savour your food. Perhaps try making a ritual out of brewing a cup of tea or coffee.

    2. Single-tasking Over Multi-tasking

    In an age where juggling multiple tasks simultaneously is often praised, the power of single-tasking emerges as a refreshing counterpoint. Focusing on one task at a time not only enhances the quality of the work but also deepens our engagement with it. Single-tasking, contrary to the frenzied nature of multitasking, promotes presence, attentiveness, and a genuine immersion in the task at hand. By directing our energies and attention singularly, we reduce errors, increase efficiency, and derive a greater sense of satisfaction. It serves as a reminder that sometimes, doing less can indeed mean accomplishing more.

    While multitasking might seem efficient, it can dilute our focus:

    • Prioritise essential tasks and tackle them one by one.
    • Enjoy the process, whether it’s writing an email, cooking a meal, or reading a book. Fully immerse yourself in one activity at a time.

    3. Nature Connection

    Forging a connection with nature is an intrinsic return to our roots, a soulful embrace of the world beyond our man-made confines. As we immerse ourselves in the rhythmic cadence of the natural world, we are reminded of the ebb and flow of life, the impermanence of things, and the beauty of simple moments. Nature, in its vast expanse, offers lessons in resilience, patience, and harmony.

    Nature has its rhythm, and aligning with it can be therapeutic:

    • Take daily walks without any digital distractions.
    • Engage in gardening or even just maintaining house plants. Watch them grow at their pace.

    4. Digital Detox

    In today’s digital era, screens have become omnipresent, often overwhelming our senses and clouding our minds. A digital detox, or deliberate disengagement from electronic devices, emerges as a necessary respite for our mental and emotional well-being. By periodically unplugging, we give ourselves the chance to reconnect with the tactile world, fostering genuine relationships, and immersing in the present moment. This detox challenges the compulsion to be constantly connected and allows our brains the vital downtime they need. The clarity, creativity, and rejuvenation that stem from this break underscore its importance in maintaining a balanced and holistic life amidst the digital deluge.

    Something we have recently done. is stopped all screen time for our children (not that they had too much previously) but it is a complete gamechanger, improving moods and allowing such a deeper level of play. We went cold turkey (accidentally, we moved the TV out of the living room during a minor renovation) and it worked great. I am still working on myself when it comes to reducing my own screen time – which isn’t easy because running my business depends on it somewhat.

    Reducing screen time can dramatically improve your mental well-being:

    • Set designated times to check social media or emails.
    • Consider having one day a week or certain hours in a day as a digital-free zone.

    5. Simplify Your Space

    A decluttered space can lead to a decluttered mind:

    • Regularly assess your possessions. Donate what you don’t need.
    • Embrace minimalistic décor, promoting peace and calm.

    6. Invest in Quality Over Quantity

    This applies to everything from clothing to relationships:

    • Buy fewer items, but ensure they’re of good quality and will last.
    • Cultivate deeper relationships with fewer people rather than spreading yourself thin.

    7. Prioritise Self-Care

    Prioritising self-care is not an indulgence; it’s a fundamental act of self-preservation. In the bustle of modern life, with its endless demands and responsibilities, it’s easy to put oneself last on the list. However, continuously neglecting our own needs can lead to burnout, emotional exhaustion, and a diminished zest for life. By making self-care a non-negotiable priority, we’re not just tending to our physical well-being, but we’re also nurturing our mental, emotional, and spiritual health. This intentional time carved out for ourselves helps replenish our energies, restore balance, and reaffirm our worth. Ultimately, self-care isn’t just about self-love but also about sustaining our ability to serve, love, and thrive in all other areas of life.

    Listening to and caring for yourself is essential:

    • Schedule regular ‘me-time’ — whether it’s reading, a spa day at home, or just quiet reflection.
    • Practice meditation or deep breathing exercises to center yourself.

    8. Cultivate Patience

    Cultivating patience is akin to nurturing a rare, delicate bloom; it requires consistent care, time, and understanding. In our fast-paced world of instant gratifications and rapid turnovers, patience stands as a quiet pillar of strength and wisdom. It teaches us the invaluable lesson that not all things unfold on our desired timelines and that there’s a profound beauty in waiting and witnessing the organic progression of events. Embracing patience allows us to approach challenges with grace, to listen more deeply, and to react with thoughtfulness rather than impulsivity. It’s a reminder that life’s richest rewards often come to those who wait, who persevere, and who trust the journey, even when the destination remains unseen.

    In a world that demands instant gratification, choose patience.

    • Avoid the rush. If something takes time, let it.
    • Remember that good things, from a home-cooked meal to personal growth, often require time.

    Embrace the Journey to an Intentional Life

    Slow living isn’t just a trend; it’s a conscious choice to lead a more fulfilled life. It’s about savouring moments, cherishing relationships, and finding joy in simplicity. As you embark on this journey, remember that it’s not about achieving perfection but seeking progress and joy in each step. Embrace the philosophy, integrate it bit by bit, and watch your life transform into a more intentional and joyful experience.

    Feeling Overwhelmed?
    Get My Free Guide to Slow Down & Simplify Your Life
    Your no-fuss guide with simple, actionable steps to help you create a slower, calmer and more intentional life.
    Thank you for subscribing!
  • Simple Living

    Living intentionally + join my FREE inspired living series

    It’s been a year, actually, it’s been two. Living through a pandemic is anything but easy but something these last two years have enabled me to do is live life a little more intentionally. Spending more time at home than ever before has made me think more about our home, the way it is organised, how the spaces we have ebb and flow, and more importantly it has taught me how to live with less.

    armchair near table and ottoman
    Photo by Emre Can Acer on Pexels.com

    There are so many things in the way we chose to live overall that I have been thinking about recently and I have been unpicking how it is all connected. Slow living, living with less, living small, and intentional and inspired living is my jam. We don’t live in the biggest, most expensive home but it is my dream. It’s a space I have loved to create, being inspired by living with less.

    What inspired living is all about?

    Living a slow, more intentional way of living is a wonderful adventure. It is a constant work in progress and consequently is something that people always want to know more about, especially over on Instagram. About the connection between being intentional about the way we live, living with less, decluttering, creating intentional spaces around our home, our commitment to living a more simple life, the way we approach our finances, consumerism, our commitment to being as eco-conscious as possible, our wellbeing and even down to our digital connections. It is all connected and it runs so deep. It is a wonderful journey as you slowly unpick it all and unlock how to live a more intentional, inspired life.

    I am about to embark on a fresh start (when it comes to our home) on the other side of Christmas and I would love for you to join me. I have created a fun and inspiring email series where I’ll be sharing my thoughts about why we started living intentionally and why it works along with my best tips for decluttering, organising, and what I have found works over the past few years. Plus there will be lots of freebies to help you simplify your home, your life and live that slow, intentional life you’ve always dreamed of.

    photo of green leaf potted plants on window and stand
    Photo by Daria Shevtsova on Pexels.com

    Join us on this journey

    You still have time to join us on the journey we’re going to take together early next year. Just pop your details in the box below and we’ll be starting in the new year.

    You will hear from me once a week, on Sunday morning, with a little email covering some of my favourite topics and tips when it comes to living more intentionally.

    Inspired Living in 2022
    Join me as we embark on a fresh start to 2022.
     
    I’ll be sharing what made us choose to live a slower, more intentional life, why it works, things that I have found work best for us along with my best tips for decluttering, organising and lots of freebies to help you simplify your home, your life and beyond.
    Thank you for subscribing!

    I can’t wait to see you there and to take this journey together.