The Sunday Pause #10: The intersectional crosspoint of slow living & the feminine
Slow living is to be embraced by all, but this week I am diving into the intersectional crosspoint of why reclaiming slowness is divinely feminine.
Welcome to The Sunday Pause, a weekly series designed to be a dedicated space for reflection and intentional living. I’m Amy: Wife, Mother, a slow + simple living facilitator and yoga instructor.
Amid our fast-paced world, this series invites you to take a pause, a moment of quiet contemplation on Sundays, to navigate the intricacies of intentional living. Here, we'll explore the essence of living with purpose, share practical tips, and create a ritual that allows you to intentionally shape your week. Join us in this weekly pause, as we navigate intentional living in our bustling lives.
Slowing down, being more intentional in our lives, simplifying and slow living is a concept we are seeing and hearing more than ever. In a fast paced world it feels like a radical act to say no and prioritise slowing down. The slow living philosophy encourages us to step off the treadmill of constant busyness and prioritise intentionality. Slow living is about slowing down, simplifying our lives, and living with purpose. This means consciously savouring moments, decluttering physical and mental spaces, and aligning our actions with what truly matters to us.
But slow living isn't just about personal wellbeing. It holds a powerful connection to feminism. Here's why: For some of us, Slow living offers a feminist approach to life, dismantling societal pressures and reclaiming agency for women. By embracing slow living, we can challenge the traditional expectations placed on women and rewrite the narrative of success on our own terms.
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This week’s Pause:
The intersectional crosspoint of slow living & the feminine.
Guided journal questions.
Mindfulness and Connection points.
Final thoughts.
Slow Living & Feminism:
Traditionally, societal expectations have placed a heavy burden on women, defining what it means to be "feminine" in a way that's often unrealistic and limiting. These roles often portray women as the pillars of the home, expected to excel at childcare, housework, and emotional support for their families, all while potentially maintaining demanding careers. This "superwoman" ideal glorifies busyness and multitasking as feminine strengths.
The pressure to constantly juggle these responsibilities can lead to a sense of never being enough. Women are praised for their self-sacrifice, putting the needs of others before their own. While nurturing and empathy are valuable traits, the expectation to constantly prioritise others can lead to exhaustion and resentment. This constant state of busyness leaves little room for personal growth, hobbies, or simply taking a breath. The result? Burnout, a feeling of disconnection from oneself, and ultimately, a barrier to achieving true personal fulfillment.
Slow living becomes a powerful form of resistance against the relentless pressure to "do it all." By embracing a slower pace, women can dismantle the myth of the "superwoman" and reclaim their agency. This doesn't mean neglecting responsibilities, but rather approaching them with intention and prioritising wellbeing. Slow living allows women to redefine success on their own terms, focusing on a life filled with meaning and fulfillment rather than constant striving.
In practice, slow living principles can be woven into everyday life. Setting boundaries around work hours allows for dedicated time for rest and hobbies. Rejecting the hustle culture narrative means saying no to commitments that drain energy and focusing on tasks that bring purpose. Prioritising rest, whether through meditation, spending time in nature, or simply taking breaks throughout the day, becomes a vital act of self-care. By implementing these practices, women can break free from the cycle of busyness and create space for a life that aligns with their values and aspirations.
Intersectionality & Slow Living:
It's important to recognise that slow living isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. Social inequalities and economic burdens can make the principles of slow living less accessible for many women. Single mothers juggling multiple jobs, women facing financial insecurity, and those with caregiving responsibilities may not have the luxury of slowing down in the same way. A truly feminist slow living movement needs to acknowledge these disparities and advocate for policies that support women, such as affordable childcare, flexible work arrangements, and a living wage.
Furthermore, slow living can extend beyond personal practices and become a collective act of resistance. Concepts like slow fashion, which emphasises quality over quantity and ethical production, challenge the fast fashion industry's exploitation and environmental damage. Mindful consumption, where we consider the impact of our purchases, aligns with feminist values that prioritise sustainability and social responsibility. By embracing these practices, we can create a more mindful and equitable world for all women.
Guided Journal Questions
Reflecting on Societal Pressures:
Think about the expectations you face as a woman. How do these expectations influence how you spend your time and energy?
Have you ever felt pressure to live up to the ideal of the "superwoman"? How did this make you feel?
Are there any societal messages about success or femininity that you want to challenge?
Intersectionality and Slow Living:
Acknowledge any challenges you face in practicing slow living. Are there social or economic factors that make it more difficult?
How can we create a slow living movement that is more inclusive for all women?
Research concepts like slow fashion or mindful consumption. How do these practices align with feminist values?
Living more intentionally:
Choose one small step you can take this week to slow down and prioritise your wellbeing.
Journal about your progress as you explore slow living. How does it impact your sense of fulfillment and agency?
Mindfulness & Connection Points
Mindfulness:
Body Scan: Take a few minutes to do a body scan meditation. Notice any areas of tension or discomfort that might be holding you back from slowing down. As you release this tension, visualize yourself stepping into a slower, more relaxed state of being.
Gratitude Practice: Before bed each night, take a moment to reflect on 3 things you're grateful for. Gratitude can help us appreciate the present moment and combat feelings of overwhelm that can come with a fast-paced life.
Nature Connection: Spend time in nature, even if it's just for a few minutes. Notice the sights, sounds, and smells around you. Immersing yourself in nature can be a powerful way to de-stress and reconnect with yourself.
Connection:
Sisterhood Circle: Gather with friends or fellow women to discuss the challenges and triumphs of embracing slow living. Sharing experiences can foster a sense of community and support. You can join my free online monthly women’s circle here.
Support Local Businesses: When you shop, choose to support businesses run by women or those that promote slow fashion principles. This small act connects you with a larger movement for ethical consumption.
Digital Detox: Schedule regular breaks from social media and technology. This creates space for introspection and allows you to connect with the present moment and the people around you.
Slow living offers a powerful framework for feminist action. By rejecting the glorification of busyness and reclaiming agency over our time, we can dismantle unrealistic expectations and redefine success on our own terms.
Prioritising wellbeing through slowing down, simplifying, and living with intention allows women to pursue personal fulfillment and create space for the things that truly matter. While acknowledging the challenges of accessibility, we can strive towards a more inclusive slow living movement that tackles social inequalities.
Remember, slow living isn't about achieving perfection, but rather about taking small steps towards a more intentional and fulfilling life. So, why not explore some slow living practices today? You might be surprised by the positive impact it has on your wellbeing and your journey towards a life lived on your terms.
I would love to know your thoughts!
Until next time,
Thanks for this post.
I fervently hope that the generation of women in the workforce now can slow down. I can only live slowly now in retirement, after working long hours and living frugally to get to this point. Looking back on my career years, I am not quite sure how I survived the pressure. Too much multitasking and a feeling of never having time to rest.