I spent a week out of the office this week with my spiritual teacher Amma at a retreat in a local hotel. It was one way for me to ensure that I am in synch with the rhythms of the Earth and well being. This reminds me how we're so marinated in the "roadrunner" way of living that we have overlooked the toll that hyperspeed way of living takes on well being and the environment.
In his new book In Praise of the Slow, author Carl Honore speaks to expressions of the dis-ease of our rush-aholic society: speed dating, speed reading, fast food, etc. and their toll on society and nature.
Carl spoke about slowness at a recent TED conference (Technology, Environment, Design) where some of the most innovative thinkers share their latest ideas with eachother. His speech can be an important reminder to us all Watch it here. ( You can slow down enough to watch this now, right? ).
This talk points to the grand opportunity we have to redefine our concept of time.
Thankfully, the popularity of books like The Power of Now and the growth of what is becoming known as the "international slow movement" reveals how slowness can transform the experience of living on the planet.
By slowing down at the right moments in our life, we can vastly improve the quality of experience in our lives.
Think about these ideas: "slow food" and "slow sex" which are gaining popularity to become movements. Doesn't it sound wonderful! It in the simple pleasures of food and lovemaking where we really want to "savour the moment."
Naturally, slowness is a way of life.
My spiritual teacher Amma emphasizes the matter in her comments on the power of relaxation.
The quote is framed on the wall of the travel office in her ashram temple in Kerala, India. Here's the quote:
"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.
