Lockdown taught me one valuable thing: slow down
When I was teaching I tried so hard to have a work/life balance and discovered mindfulness for the first time. It worked for a while, but I didn’t prioritise enough time for myself, so it often was the first thing to drop when things became hectic.
I seemed to be constantly wrapped up in my thoughts, overthinking and worrying. I just wanted to feel calmer and more present throughout my day.
I got burnt out and was completely exhausted.
So I left teaching to travel, have fun and explore the world. It honestly took me months that summer to get back to my normal self.
Then one week before my OE, our first lockdown happened.
On top of my massive change of plans, the lockdown taught me one valuable thing: slow down.
Why did I always need to be busy, taking life so seriously, saying yes to everyone and everything, and not listening to my body when it needed to slow down.
I had quit my dream job to find myself again and free myself from the stress. Then, even during a lockdown, with no job or daily requirements, I still had a whole list of things I wanted to do each day.
That’s when I realised, no matter what I did; I needed to become more mindful and prioritise time for myself.
During lockdown, being able to slow down inspired me. It gave me a chance to put the tools I had learnt about into practice and to finally realise the power these practices held.
My morning and evening rituals changed my life; creating new habits, practising daily meditation, journaling, breath-work, and movement immediately proved their worth.
I was able to be more present throughout my day, see the incredible world around me properly and understand that being busy isn’t better.
I kept hearing the same challenges I used to have from people around me. So I started Our Hauora, a business to take these practices to as many people, young and old, as I could. I am now sharing everything I’ve learned on my healing and self-care journey through this business.
If you feel inspired by my story and want to learn how you can manage stress, work/life balance, adopt healthy habits, learn how to say no, prioritise yourself and your never-ending to-do list.... check out our upcoming workshops or online well-being courses.
