We all know this feeling: it’s weekend and we’re cramming it full of errands, catch-ups, and house projects. The result? Two (or three) days that turned into a blur. The last time we checked, weekend is still regarded as a time for leisure. So here’s an idea: slow living on the weekends. Unsurprisingly, this can leave you feeling more refreshed and content.
The truth is, real rest doesn’t come from crossing off (endless) to-do lists. It comes from slowing down and staying present for the small moments. It requires you to choose slow and simple moments to make your days off truly restorative. For a weekend that won’t drain you even more, these five slow living tips are the perfect place to start.
Slow Living Tip #1: Greet Your Morning with Intention
If creating a new morning ritual feels overwhelming for you, start with something small like taking a mindful pause. As soon as you wake up, let the first few moments belong to you. Take a pause and notice your surroundings; no diving into social media or emails.
It also helps if you ask yourself the following questions:
- “How do I want to feel today?” – This should keep the ball rolling on slow living, and inspire you to do something softer for the day.
- “What’s one thing I’d love to focus on?” – One activity will do; the weekend doesn’t have to be your second job.
Slow Living Tip #2: Create a “No Phone” Zone at Home
We get it: it’s hard to ignore notifications—checking them is almost like a reflex for so many of us. However, distancing yourself from the screen triggers the habit of slow living. So, if you have an unused space at home, you can turn it into a screen-free cozy zone. Fill it with books, a comfortable chair, candles, puzzles, and even a journal.
This zone is a small boundary you can put up to become more present with yourself and in the moment. No phone? No problem. You’ve got more than enough here to gently engage with your mind.
Slow Living Tip #3: Cook Something from Scratch
Ever wondered why cooking feels therapeutic? That’s because this activity requires focus and attention, so you momentarily put aside your worries. The repetitive motions, like stirring and chopping, can also be meditative for some, even the washing of dishes right after!
Additionally, cooking is an avenue to have greater control over what goes into your body. So in a way, it’s a form of self-care that relieves stress. Cooking from scratch doesn’t have to be complicated. Even a simple dish would do if you prepare it with care and without rushing.
This weekend, pick a recipe you love. It could be a savory pasta, a homemade pie, or a hearty stew. Fully engage your senses while you chop, stir, and eat. A tip? Pair your meal with a cozy audiobook or playlist for a full-on homey vibe.
Slow Living Tip #4: Refresh a Small Space in Your Home
Cozy living isn’t about buying more. To be clear, though, we don’t condone the act of buying itself. What we believe in is slow decorating.
Unlike fast decorating that focuses on trendy colors and pieces, slow decorating invites you to curate spaces and collect meaningful pieces, slowly and with pause. Do you really need a new pillow or blanket? Maybe you just need to use more of the things you already own and love?
Part of slow decorating is finding small ways to cozy up your home. Here are some things you can do without spending anything:
- Move furniture away from walls to make space for a cozy nook.
- Place treasured items nearby your cozy corner: a book, a piece of art, a framed photo.
- Clear off a surface (like a kitchen counter or coffee table) and restyle it.
- Bring nature indoors; display pinecones, rocks or seasonal elements you’ve gathered from the outside.
- Light candles or gather small lamps in dark areas of the home.
- Clean windows to let more of the sunlight in.
- Tie back curtains or remove heavy drapes to lighten the mood.
Engaging in these small acts of care is a beautiful way to practice slow living at home. They also remind you that your space already has the potential to be cozy. Sometimes, you just need a fresh perspective.
Slow Living Tip #5: Spend Intentional Time Outdoors
For the last tip, we’re doubling down on being intentional, all while enjoying the beauty of the outdoors. Nature always invites us into the rhythm of cozy living, so the question is how often do you accept this loving invitation? Starting this weekend, why not step outside with presence, purpose, and a sense of wonder?
When you go outside, let go of the need to rush. It’s weekend, love, let your senses lead and wander slowly. You may set a goal for your time outdoors (to move your body or to breathe) but stay open. Try to look for small details like the moss on the tree or the way the sunlight filters through the leaves. This is called “noticing walk.”
If you don’t really have the energy to roam outside, you can simply have your morning drink on the veranda or near the window while greeting the daybreak. You can also end the day by watching the sunset or stargazing.
A garden, even a tiny one, could also reconnect you to nature and soothe your nervous system. We know this for a fact because we have moms who get their joy from gardening. And if you know moms—well, they often have a pretty stressful day. Anyway, even caring for a pot of flower, a vase of clippings, or a windowsill herb garden counts. Observing how things grow and change is a habit worth cultivating.
The Heart of It
Slowing down is a grand gesture in itself, but the paradox is you don’t have to do something so elaborate to embrace it. Small moments like savoring your morning coffee or tea, or writing a handwritten note to yourself, is a step toward a more intentional and grounded life. This weekend, or every weekend (if you’re up for a challenge), do one simple thing to nurture cozy living. Gift yourself the simple magic of slowing down. You deserve it, love.
