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Lately, I’ve been bullying myself for not being able to get anything done while suffering from a number of chronic issues. I just wanted to say thank you so much for the advice in this video as I need to slow down and allow myself to process what I’m going through.
in italy people who work in the office have to take courses on work safety in which they explain that after 2 hours of using the computer you have to take a "break" of 15 minutes without looking at the screen. it's not a coffee break, it's a working time during which you make photocopies or call a client or put documents in order, in short do office activities without looking at the screen. and also breaks to stretch your muscles when you're sitting for a long time. but unfortunately many of us don't do it because we always feel like we're wasting time (in many areas of italy we work too much!), instead these rules are for our health. thanks to your video I'll try harder to respect the breaks, especially since I have serious vision problems
#26 Watch Vera’s videos😊 Thank you for always sharing such wonderful tips that any of us can implement. I consider watching your videos a form of self care. They always leave me feeling more relaxed and calm. Your content helps many of us more than you probably even realize. Thank you❤️
Such a positive video to watch 😅. I was a caregiver to my husband for many years and he passed in 2023, it’s taken these years to want slow living. When I started following along and learning slow living it has helped me. I always lived as if on demand and letting go of caregiver role and focus on self was a journey the guilt but no more as we all deserve to treat ourselves well each day❤
I actually practice your last tip all the time. I find doing my nightly facial routine boring and lots of time I’m not in the mood to do it! I thought it was taking way too long so one night I timed myself. I was shocked that it was only taking me 10 minutes!!! I would have guessed 25! So after that I started practicing focusing on what needs to be done nightly and I encourage myself by saying…it’s only 10 minutes…relax and enjoy! Amazingly, I have learned to do just that!
Much of what you say is reflective of how I live and fits with my zen and Buddhist principles. You express the ideas, often in a slightly different and relatable way, which I’m certain is very helpful for your viewers. I just found your videos a few days ago. I’m happy that I did. I’m grateful and appreciate you. ☺️🌹….. 🇨🇦
I really, really need to stop doing phone games and scrolling mindlessly - which I often do when I am exhausted and tired and don't have the brainpower to do something "purposeful". You are right, these things are highly addictive. Thank you also for the reminder abou eating slowly and with awareness. :)
Unfortunately they know how to program these apps and games in a way that uses our psychology against us, so it can be hard to resist. Boundaries are key I think :)
I'm going to try the slowcation mindset for my staycation in a couple of weeks. There are a few fun things I want to do, but I'm going to see where each day takes me and not plan every moment and be stressed if I don't do it all and exhausted if I do. I truly appreciate your videos. They are packed with great tips and how they affect your body. I'm so grateful to you Vera
I love the low bun! It is easy and sophisticated. It is also healthy for the hair because it keeps the ends protected. You can experiment with styling the bun different ways and if you leave your hair it can create different curl patterns as the hair sets.
A therapist told me once that sighing is a form of meditation! Wonderful video, so many great & thoughtful ideas here. I love the concept that rushing doesn’t save you that much time. It’s so true! all it really does is heighten anxiety.
I never realised that I was following tip 2 until I discovered I'm an HSP and found your channel! Music is my fuel ( I almost never step outside my house without my earphones) and I take great pleasure in listening to the nuances in well-composed music! Music helped me navigate through a particularly rough time this year when I was struggling with anxiety and brain fog. You earned a new subscriber today 😊
Four songs that always chill me out in one way or another - Teardrop by Massive Attack, Song to the Siren by This Mortal Coil, Saltwater by Chicane, Upside Down by Jack Johnson. - Different moods, but all do a great job for me.
Thank you Vera ❤️ I do massage my shoulders and neck. Lately I have been listening to zen music I found on RUclips and I shut my eyes. It's very relaxing before I go to bed.
Wonderful video, comes at the right time for me. I'm going to resign from my new teaching job because I don't like being rushed all day, having 1000 tabs open in my mind, no real breaks and always the feeling of being one step behind. It's so exhausting even though on the outside, I'm doing - as far as I've been told - a very good job. But being good at something does't mean it makes me feel good. I need more rest and this job is draining for a person like me. So instead of dreaming of a calmer life, I will follow through and leave and try to follow my dream of being an author of school books / materials. I love to have this perspective. Long comment! I wanted to share that I'm actually trying to slow my life down beyond little changes in my daily life. Sometimes bigger steps are also necessary. I love your 25 tips and took mental notes.😉 thank you!
Hello Vera! I find your videos incredibly calming and inspiring! I'm happy every time you post a new one. It makes my day a little bit nicer! Thank you so much!🌱🌟
What really gave me an aha moment was. When on staycation your supposed to rest and enjoy as you're on vacation!! I'm currently off work for a week. Today is my first day off and I've not stopped all day and now I'm sore and exhausted. Tomorrow will be chill ❤ thank you for this wonderful list x
Hello Vera. Thank you for your inspiring videos. It is calming and provides a foundation for more mindful practices. Today. I drove to work without turning on the radio. And that absence of in car noise made me more observant. I can't guarantee to myself that I won't get rattled with the world, but you've helped me immensely. So once I thank you.
Most of the things you speak about I already do, but I keep struggling with taking good care of myself and I spend way too much time playing a certain game on my iPad 😅. So those are the things I still need to work on. Your hair looks great with this low bun by the way.
I had a late start to my morning and injured myself while putting my silicone tail into my car trunk... so I was very flustered when doing my makeup for today's event. But that first tip you gave to breathe helped immensely. Thank you 🥰🖤
I like the low bun. Your hair always looks so nice. The low bun seems like it would be great for hot days, when you would be outside on a windy day, for gardening/housework days, or for a sophisticated look day.
In some ways, I feel like this video was really meant for me. The last class I have before graduating this year is 100% remote, which means that I need to start prioritizing more planning and learning to self-discipline myself. I'm grateful that I've already taught myself a lot of things earlier on before entering my 30's when it comes to time-management and productivity. This video is already motivating me so much! Thank you for making this video, Vera! 😊
Random daydreamy thoughts…. Loved the new, low ponytail…ahhh Niksen!… happy sighing, who knew? …quiet nature….deep breathing in all its forms is incredibly soothing…self massage is necessary…. The present is a gift to yourself….how did you possibly concentrate to create this video with construction overhead? … I love being with Vera ❤
Hha thank you! Well filming was a little challenging with the noise every 2 minutes, I had 2 hours of footage for this 26 minute video hahaa. The rest was just me waiting for the noise to stop so I could get some phrases out. It was a good exercise in patience and acceptance hahaha
I desperately needed someone to tell me I am doing just enough, thank you for the advice number 20. And I feel excited about the 'no plans' day, haven't had this in years! I enjoyed the video so much, thank you ❤️
I love the tip about music. I have a note taped to my shelf of cd's that says "laying on the floor and listening to music might be all the therapy that you need"
Hi from Montana, USA. Great video. I was just talking with my therapist this morning about nighttime and morning routines and rushing so much. I gave myself a cut off time for videos so I can sleep better and get up a little earlier as I rush so much in the mornings and it is a horrible stressful way to start the day!! I am going to send this video to my best friend as I think it is super beneficial. Oh I will also try not to check my phone first thing when I wake up. And also even to put my phone in the other room when I am watching lovely you tube videos like yours so I can just focus on that and not be on my phone as well . Thank you for your content ❤️
Happy to hear you found some helpful insights that also fit with what you were talking about earlier! Good luck wiht your new goals when it comes to starting your days and using your phone :)
Your video came up on my feed at the perfect time! I felt stressed and anxious from the moment I woke up, thinking, am I going to have enough time to get all my work done? Will I still have time for myself in the evening? My to-do list is manageable, but just thinking about it made me restless. Setting aside 30 extra minutes this morning to watch this video brought instant calm to my mind, and I'll be practicing deep breaths throughout the day to keep me grounded. In a world that moves at light speed, thank you for always inspiring us to be kind to ourselves!
Your hair looks lovely. ❤ Thanks for this video, it was just what I needed. I've been trying to slow down for a few years now but find myself busier than ever. I kind of take responsibility for everyone and everything in a family of four which includes a disabled husband, two adult kids, and two cats. It's a pretty full plate. We just moved house and it's smaller than our previous apartment so I'm having to declutter a lot of stuff, including furniture that we've had for years but there's just no room for them. I always use the Japanese as an example, I figure if they can live in tiny places with minimal belongings then why can't we. I love your apartment and your lifestyle and I aspire to live like that in the near future. Keep up the great videos, I find them very inspiring. You're a lovely young woman with a great attitude to life. ❤🐝🌸🌻🍀
Hi, Vera! Thank you for your great content. 🌷🙏 I find your 3rd tip especially helpful. Preparing things the night before helps me start my mornings more relaxed and follow my body's natural time for completely waking up and pick on energy levels without having to rush to complete certain tasks or force my brain to take decisions that would impact the rest of my day while I'm still in the process of waking up. This works wonders for me since I was in middle school. I'm trying to incorporate this habit again in my daily routines.
Hi Vera from Australia 🇦🇺 am 67 really love your Channel...very interesting 😀 I am definately going to share with my close friends! Thankyou so much ❤🎉
The box breathing and cutting back on screen time definitely makes you feel like you're going slower instead of a million miles an hour. The little things really add up both ways. I was surprised how much of a difference it can make just dipping my toes into trying to slow down a little bit even. I look forward to implementing these.
Tip #26: book tickets to the Netherlands, find Ms. Vera, and give her a big hug. Thank you for the time you take on these videos; so much more effective and beneficial use of my time than to watch/doomscroll the horrible news from my birth country and the upcoming election. Thank you again!!!
A month ago I had my first baby and I keep telling myself that I am rushing all the time. I think with a baby is hard to fine time for oneself so you always feel like to need to be quick so you can finish what you are doing before the nest feeding/diaper change. I know this will go away as the baby grows, but I find it the most challenging to slow down and not be rushing all the time. Am I the only one who feels this way? It does makes me realize how much power I had over my life!! So for these who feel like they can’t do it, wait until you have a baby so you realize you actually COULD have done it! 😂
I do want to add that even with a baby I can practice slow living! For example, being fully present while you feed your baby 🥰. So, so many times it is up to us to slow down.
Hi Vera! This was s great list you presented! I was actually surprised that I already do some of these actions automatically! I didn't know the word NIKSEN, but the practice is something I savour already! And having a no plans day is amazing, it's amazing what comes to you when you're still. And gazing at nature, yes, this is a great habit! Love from Vancouver, Canada 🇨🇦 ❤️
Love the bun! I combine your previous advice about M. I. T. with slowing down and giving myself enough time to complete whatever the task is in a more relaxed way. I have the attention span of that fruit fly that was distracting you in this video so I’m still practicing this!
The thing I want to try more of is keeping my phone out of my breaks. It is like you read my mind! I immediately grab my phone when I'm taking a break. So now I will try the quiet wakefulness technique or giving a big sigh and stretch.
Love the bun! I do read a lot of non-fiction, but mainly science-y stuff, and history, biographies. It's still immensely interesting, but they're generally not things that make me feel like I have to do something with them /right now/, while still enhancing my understanding of many things, including myself.
Aw thanks!!! The bun is comfortable too, with the parting in the middle the bun doesn't pull on my scalp or anything :) Have a great day and take care!
I do these and find them so helpful. It really helped to hear of these as it was encouraging after last week feeling exhausted. The low bun is very elegant and suits you. ❤
i first stumbled into your videos with the episode about NIKSEN - i do sooooo love this word and this is what i try to take over in my days ❤❤❤ and i like your bun too 🙋🏼♀️
This content continues to be so practical & amazing! Thank you, Vera, for your ongoing tips to live a more enjoyable life in simpler though highly underrated ways! ❤
You know I think I'm going to try making sure my breaks are away from my phone. I also love reading fiction but I usually wait before bed and stick to non-fiction during the day. I may have to rethink that... Right now I'm reading Burkeman's Meditations for Mortals, excellent book that fits really well into the slow living theme. I recommend it for anyone feeling like there's too much to do. You made a great video, I will probably try all of these!
Ever since I took a Reiki class several years ago I learned to place my hands on my body as a way of sending healing energy to myself and this has been life changing. I now fall asleep every night with my hands on my body. For example, I may place one hand on my forehead and another on my stomach or my heart. It really calms down my highly sensitive nervous system and allows me to drift off to sleep with my body feeling nurtured and calm. Anyone can do this (reiki or not) but for most people it’s a new concept because nobody ever taught us to offer self care to ourselves in this way.
Robin from The Science of Self-Care just did a video on why the Dutch are so healthy. She is Dutch-American and recently moved back to the US after 20 years in the US, then 10 years in Holland. Vera, you might find it an interesting perspective.
I completely love this video! I want to implement most, if not all, of the tips that you provided; I am looking to revamp my routines, and adding this slowness approach is just what I needed! I absolutely love the low bun, I might have to give it a try myself- I am also looking for new hair idea's.
Hi Vera! Lately I’ve been trying to be more mindful about time spent on my phone… it really can become such a time consuming habit. Did you get out for your walk to recover? 🤞 As a fellow HSP, I know how difficult it is to have to listen to all that construction noise… 😬 On top of that you were trying to make a video! I want to acknowledge that you did a great job and thank you! ❤
Thank you so much for this video. It definitely opened my eyes to lots of things I'm doing or should be doing differently. Love your videos! So inspiring ❤much needed.
Hi there, LOVE your videos. Stopped half way watching this one to make a cup of tea because I was rushing and thinking about the next task at hand, so tips integrated! Book tip: In praise of slow, by C. Honore, you will love it.
So many helpful tips to try . I like the idea of 5 deep breaths. Also to put the fork down while chewing your food. I can’t wait to try it . Thank you!
Love this video! Thank you for sharing all the ideas. I've incorporated No Plans weekends once per month for a year and it has helped me slow down to enjoy hobbies. Thanks again for another fantastic video!
Pomodoro variation for me, I'd try that, probably 45 mins deep work and 15 min break. 25-5 mins seem so short to me as well. Thanks so much Vera for the slow living tips!
1. The bun is good. The lavender is good, too! 2. Number 25 is something I've been working on, my habits around that, what drives them, why I'm resistant. It feels important to observe. 3. May I recommend to folks the book World Enough & Time: On Creativity and Slowing Down? By Christian McEwen. A lovely read, helpful about time and care even if you're not creative. Honestly a life-changing book and one I turn to a lot. Thanks for these tips, Vera!
Self hugging does not sound “weird” at all. It makes perfect sense to me. For example, I walk long distances and as part of my morning routine I give myself a relaxing foot massage. I also languidly and slowly massage other parts of my body which gives me gentle stretches and many benefits. Since I don’t have much physical contact with others in my life it is also a bit of compensation for this.
Hi Vera, first of all, I love your hair parted in the middle and the low bun, it looks very “Latina”, the earrings & makeup are perfect 🤩….I love staring out the window, I feel it grounds me in some weird way, I also love sighing and do it pretty often at random times, I guess it’s my body’s response to overstimulation & stress. It’s funny because when I was a little girl my dad will tell my siblings and I to chew each bite of food 20 times before we swallow, I’m not sure where he learned that (maybe the army) but he was a really wise man, this was like 55/60 years ago but it is so true, eating slowly has so many benefits for us physically & mentally!!! I hope you were able to get away from some of the construction noise yesterday 🙉 ..Enjoy your day Vera 🌷🌷🌷
Thank you Joan!! Funny how you also love sighing and staring out the window :) Yes it's so grounding. Also that your dad would tell you to chew 20 times. Many people don't chew enough :) And yes, the construction noise got really bad there for a while, like they were drilling inside my head, but luckily it's better now. They did come to introduce themselves and apologize for the noise, so that also helped. Have a great day!
My husband recently started to play games on his phone and I had never seen him doing that before. I'm like, "Why?" I feel like lately he doesn't know how to just sit and do nothing, and he used to be very much one of those "art of doing nothing" types. Hopefully he'll see what's going on. I love slow living minimalism! Yey! I never heard of pomodoro technique and like it! I love to read fiction. I read a lot of books but don't give myself a goal of how many per week or month I need to read. I just see if I get sucked in or not. Somehow, that usually means it takes me only 3 days to get through a book, and other times it drags for a week and a half. I don't ever do self-messaging, so I will work on that. I haven't done the whole listening to a song and just focusing on it without distraction, so I'll do that too. Thanks!
After finally getting in for the needed massage… and years after trying to heal from an extreme physical, mental traumatic event that was almost my last… I celebrate- an evening in my underwear, & bra~ Yes, 🙌🏽 we Can say it.. do it.. begin a new, The true: love of self; from the inside Out. I feel you on ‘mad that it’s Weird, to hug & hold on to the self. That is backwards as we waste too much time serving others before self. Let’s love again, & remember what that really means. Slow Down 🤍
Hi Vera. I enjoyed this so much I watched it twice. Thank you for the idea to set down my fork/spoon between bites. I’m going to try that. And I like your low bun. 😊 Props to you for being able to have a calm presence even with construction noise! I was impressed by that, and it was a good lesson for all of us.
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Today I received mij “Wild” shower gel. I like it very much 😊
Oh awesome!! Enjoy!!! 🚿🛁
Lately, I’ve been bullying myself for not being able to get anything done while suffering from a number of chronic issues. I just wanted to say thank you so much for the advice in this video as I need to slow down and allow myself to process what I’m going through.
I'm so sorry to hear that... Please treat yourself with kindness and understanding, you deserve that 🍵🌱 Take care!
Exactly my moment, as well 🙏🏽
The low bun and collared open shirt are both very flattering!
Thank you! 🤗 And very comfy too
in italy people who work in the office have to take courses on work safety in which they explain that after 2 hours of using the computer you have to take a "break" of 15 minutes without looking at the screen. it's not a coffee break, it's a working time during which you make photocopies or call a client or put documents in order, in short do office activities without looking at the screen. and also breaks to stretch your muscles when you're sitting for a long time. but unfortunately many of us don't do it because we always feel like we're wasting time (in many areas of italy we work too much!), instead these rules are for our health. thanks to your video I'll try harder to respect the breaks, especially since I have serious vision problems
Oh that is interesting! Definitely important to give the eyes some rest and to move around a bit frequently
#26 Watch Vera’s videos😊 Thank you for always sharing such wonderful tips that any of us can implement. I consider watching your videos a form of self care. They always leave me feeling more relaxed and calm. Your content helps many of us more than you probably even realize. Thank you❤️
Aw that is so nice to hear, thank you Lisa 💕❤️ Have a great day!
Focusing on one task at a time is really something i need to work on! particularly when i am at home and not working.
Hope you'll find it helpful! :)
Such a positive video to watch 😅. I was a caregiver to my husband for many years and he passed in 2023, it’s taken these years to want slow living. When I started following along and learning slow living it has helped me. I always lived as if on demand and letting go of caregiver role and focus on self was a journey the guilt but no more as we all deserve to treat ourselves well each day❤
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts. I'm so sorry to hear about your husband passing away, my condolences 🌹💕 Take good care!
Watching one of your videos always slows me down a little bit. Thanks for this and have a great day.
Aw thank you, that's nice to hear 🤗🍵❤️ You have a great day too!
I actually practice your last tip all the time. I find doing my nightly facial routine boring and lots of time I’m not in the mood to do it! I thought it was taking way too long so one night I timed myself. I was shocked that it was only taking me 10 minutes!!! I would have guessed 25! So after that I started practicing focusing on what needs to be done nightly and I encourage myself by saying…it’s only 10 minutes…relax and enjoy! Amazingly, I have learned to do just that!
That's so interesting! Definitely a nice way to approach it :)
I like the closing my eyes for 2 minutes tip. If I was still teaching I would definitely implement that in my classroom.
Much of what you say is reflective of how I live and fits with my zen and Buddhist principles. You express the ideas, often in a slightly different and relatable way, which I’m certain is very helpful for your viewers. I just found your videos a few days ago. I’m happy that I did. I’m grateful and appreciate you. ☺️🌹….. 🇨🇦
I really, really need to stop doing phone games and scrolling mindlessly - which I often do when I am exhausted and tired and don't have the brainpower to do something "purposeful". You are right, these things are highly addictive.
Thank you also for the reminder abou eating slowly and with awareness. :)
Ditto ❤
Unfortunately they know how to program these apps and games in a way that uses our psychology against us, so it can be hard to resist. Boundaries are key I think :)
I'm going to try the slowcation mindset for my staycation in a couple of weeks. There are a few fun things I want to do, but I'm going to see where each day takes me and not plan every moment and be stressed if I don't do it all and exhausted if I do. I truly appreciate your videos. They are packed with great tips and how they affect your body. I'm so grateful to you Vera
I love the low bun! It is easy and sophisticated. It is also healthy for the hair because it keeps the ends protected. You can experiment with styling the bun different ways and if you leave your hair it can create different curl patterns as the hair sets.
Thanks! I love how it's comfortable this way, since it doesn't pull on my scalp anywhere and give me a headache the way a ponytail often does
A therapist told me once that sighing is a form of meditation!
Wonderful video, so many great & thoughtful ideas here. I love the concept that rushing doesn’t save you that much time. It’s so true! all it really does is heighten anxiety.
Glad to hear it, thank you! :)
I never realised that I was following tip 2 until I discovered I'm an HSP and found your channel! Music is my fuel ( I almost never step outside my house without my earphones) and I take great pleasure in listening to the nuances in well-composed music! Music helped me navigate through a particularly rough time this year when I was struggling with anxiety and brain fog.
You earned a new subscriber today 😊
Hi from Canada 🇨🇦 I'm going to work on building in habits that take practice and aren't on electronic devices.
Awesome!! Enjoy and let me know what you end up picking and how it works out 🤗🌳
I super love this look on you, Vera😍 you're glowing! Thanks for these advices.perfect start for the week! Hugs from Switzerland 🤗😍
Aw thank you for the kind words! 🤗🌺
Four songs that always chill me out in one way or another -
Teardrop by Massive Attack,
Song to the Siren by This Mortal Coil,
Saltwater by Chicane,
Upside Down by Jack Johnson.
- Different moods, but all do a great job for me.
Thank you Vera ❤️ I do massage my shoulders and neck. Lately I have been listening to zen music I found on RUclips and I shut my eyes. It's very relaxing before I go to bed.
That sounds lovely!! ❤️😴
I love how you make learning feel so simple and effortless!
Thank you, and low bun suits you a lot💜
Thank you so much! :)
Wonderful video, comes at the right time for me. I'm going to resign from my new teaching job because I don't like being rushed all day, having 1000 tabs open in my mind, no real breaks and always the feeling of being one step behind. It's so exhausting even though on the outside, I'm doing - as far as I've been told - a very good job. But being good at something does't mean it makes me feel good. I need more rest and this job is draining for a person like me. So instead of dreaming of a calmer life, I will follow through and leave and try to follow my dream of being an author of school books / materials. I love to have this perspective.
Long comment! I wanted to share that I'm actually trying to slow my life down beyond little changes in my daily life. Sometimes bigger steps are also necessary.
I love your 25 tips and took mental notes.😉 thank you!
Wow! I wish you all the best with these changes and new chapters of life!! 🤗🌳🍵
Hello Vera! I find your videos incredibly calming and inspiring! I'm happy every time you post a new one. It makes my day a little bit nicer! Thank you so much!🌱🌟
Aw thank you, that's so nice to hear 🤗🌺🍵 Have a happy Monday!
What really gave me an aha moment was. When on staycation your supposed to rest and enjoy as you're on vacation!! I'm currently off work for a week. Today is my first day off and I've not stopped all day and now I'm sore and exhausted. Tomorrow will be chill ❤ thank you for this wonderful list x
Hello Vera. Thank you for your inspiring videos. It is calming and provides a foundation for more mindful practices. Today. I drove to work without turning on the radio. And that absence of in car noise made me more observant. I can't guarantee to myself that I won't get rattled with the world, but you've helped me immensely. So once I thank you.
Most of the things you speak about I already do, but I keep struggling with taking good care of myself and I spend way too much time playing a certain game on my iPad 😅. So those are the things I still need to work on. Your hair looks great with this low bun by the way.
Thanks Carlien!! 🤗 Good luck with the setting boundaries when it comes to the game!
Accepting that I'm cooking, and trying to be in the moment. Not rushing to the next thing.😊❤
I had a late start to my morning and injured myself while putting my silicone tail into my car trunk... so I was very flustered when doing my makeup for today's event. But that first tip you gave to breathe helped immensely. Thank you 🥰🖤
A day with no plans or easing into a busier day. 😊♥️
I like the low bun. Your hair always looks so nice. The low bun seems like it would be great for hot days, when you would be outside on a windy day, for gardening/housework days, or for a sophisticated look day.
Thanks! Yes, oftentimes I find it a little distracting to have my hair loose, and I want to have it be out of my face, so this works great for that :)
Lovely collection of really helpful tips . Thankyou for your clarity and kind, unfussy attitude.
In some ways, I feel like this video was really meant for me. The last class I have before graduating this year is 100% remote, which means that I need to start prioritizing more planning and learning to self-discipline myself. I'm grateful that I've already taught myself a lot of things earlier on before entering my 30's when it comes to time-management and productivity. This video is already motivating me so much! Thank you for making this video, Vera! 😊
Thank you Amy, so glad you enjoyed the video and found it helpful and motivating! Good luck with your remote class, you got this! 🤗💕💕💕
OMG, Dear Vera, it's so beautiful to begin the week with you ❤❤❤❤ send you hugs from Mexico City 😊
Thank you, enjoy the video!!!
Random daydreamy thoughts…. Loved the new, low ponytail…ahhh Niksen!… happy sighing, who knew? …quiet nature….deep breathing in all its forms is incredibly soothing…self massage is necessary…. The present is a gift to yourself….how did you possibly concentrate to create this video with construction overhead? … I love being with Vera ❤
Hha thank you! Well filming was a little challenging with the noise every 2 minutes, I had 2 hours of footage for this 26 minute video hahaa. The rest was just me waiting for the noise to stop so I could get some phrases out. It was a good exercise in patience and acceptance hahaha
I desperately needed someone to tell me I am doing just enough, thank you for the advice number 20.
And I feel excited about the 'no plans' day, haven't had this in years!
I enjoyed the video so much, thank you ❤️
I love the tip about music. I have a note taped to my shelf of cd's that says "laying on the floor and listening to music might be all the therapy that you need"
Hi from Montana, USA. Great video. I was just talking with my therapist this morning about nighttime and morning routines and rushing so much. I gave myself a cut off time for videos so I can sleep better and get up a little earlier as I rush so much in the mornings and it is a horrible stressful way to start the day!! I am going to send this video to my best friend as I think it is super beneficial. Oh I will also try not to check my phone first thing when I wake up. And also even to put my phone in the other room when I am watching lovely you tube videos like yours so I can just focus on that and not be on my phone as well . Thank you for your content ❤️
Happy to hear you found some helpful insights that also fit with what you were talking about earlier! Good luck wiht your new goals when it comes to starting your days and using your phone :)
Your video came up on my feed at the perfect time! I felt stressed and anxious from the moment I woke up, thinking, am I going to have enough time to get all my work done? Will I still have time for myself in the evening? My to-do list is manageable, but just thinking about it made me restless. Setting aside 30 extra minutes this morning to watch this video brought instant calm to my mind, and I'll be practicing deep breaths throughout the day to keep me grounded. In a world that moves at light speed, thank you for always inspiring us to be kind to ourselves!
Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts my friend, hope the new perspective and deep breaths were helpful! :)
Your hair looks lovely. ❤ Thanks for this video, it was just what I needed. I've been trying to slow down for a few years now but find myself busier than ever. I kind of take responsibility for everyone and everything in a family of four which includes a disabled husband, two adult kids, and two cats. It's a pretty full plate. We just moved house and it's smaller than our previous apartment so I'm having to declutter a lot of stuff, including furniture that we've had for years but there's just no room for them. I always use the Japanese as an example, I figure if they can live in tiny places with minimal belongings then why can't we. I love your apartment and your lifestyle and I aspire to live like that in the near future. Keep up the great videos, I find them very inspiring. You're a lovely young woman with a great attitude to life. ❤🐝🌸🌻🍀
Hi, Vera! Thank you for your great content. 🌷🙏 I find your 3rd tip especially helpful. Preparing things the night before helps me start my mornings more relaxed and follow my body's natural time for completely waking up and pick on energy levels without having to rush to complete certain tasks or force my brain to take decisions that would impact the rest of my day while I'm still in the process of waking up. This works wonders for me since I was in middle school. I'm trying to incorporate this habit again in my daily routines.
Exactly, well said!! 😁❤️
Hi Vera from Australia 🇦🇺 am 67 really love your Channel...very interesting 😀 I am definately going to share with my close friends! Thankyou so much ❤🎉
Thank you, that's great to hear! 🤗🍵 Have a wonderful day!
I love how simple and fun this was!
The box breathing and cutting back on screen time definitely makes you feel like you're going slower instead of a million miles an hour. The little things really add up both ways. I was surprised how much of a difference it can make just dipping my toes into trying to slow down a little bit even. I look forward to implementing these.
I was eating dinner while watching so I slowed down eating the way you suggested. I highly recommend this. I actually enjoyed my dinner for a change!
Tip #26: book tickets to the Netherlands, find Ms. Vera, and give her a big hug. Thank you for the time you take on these videos; so much more effective and beneficial use of my time than to watch/doomscroll the horrible news from my birth country and the upcoming election. Thank you again!!!
The low bun really suits you ❤
Found your channel about a month ago. Love how the videos are relaxing but have a good pace. Clear concise information.
Thank you so much, that's a wonderful compliment to hear :)
A month ago I had my first baby and I keep telling myself that I am rushing all the time. I think with a baby is hard to fine time for oneself so you always feel like to need to be quick so you can finish what you are doing before the nest feeding/diaper change. I know this will go away as the baby grows, but I find it the most challenging to slow down and not be rushing all the time. Am I the only one who feels this way? It does makes me realize how much power I had over my life!! So for these who feel like they can’t do it, wait until you have a baby so you realize you actually COULD have done it! 😂
I do want to add that even with a baby I can practice slow living! For example, being fully present while you feed your baby 🥰. So, so many times it is up to us to slow down.
Hi Vera! This was s great list you presented! I was actually surprised that I already do some of these actions automatically! I didn't know the word NIKSEN, but the practice is something I savour already! And having a no plans day is amazing, it's amazing what comes to you when you're still. And gazing at nature, yes, this is a great habit! Love from Vancouver, Canada 🇨🇦 ❤️
Vera, I adore you. Thank you for another relevant video with thoughtful content.
🤗💕💕💕 Thank you for the good vibes as always!!
Yeah totally agree all great tips to slow down your living. Everyone says that they feel time is flying by. it is a lot to do with people's lifestyle.
So true! Thanks for sharing 🤗🌳
Love the bun!
I combine your previous advice about M. I. T. with slowing down and giving myself enough time to complete whatever the task is in a more relaxed way. I have the attention span of that fruit fly that was distracting you in this video so I’m still practicing this!
Thanks Ashlynn! Good to hear about M.I.T. and slowing down! Haha it's definitely a practice
And I love your lower bun! Actually I was immediately attracted to your wisdom and vibes with this style today :)
Thank you Celine! 🤗
Side note: you look so effortlessly and classically stylish
Aw thank you! :)
The thing I want to try more of is keeping my phone out of my breaks. It is like you read my mind! I immediately grab my phone when I'm taking a break. So now I will try the quiet wakefulness technique or giving a big sigh and stretch.
Wow 😮 Each point is very helpful 🙂 Thank You 😊❤ lots of love
Glad to hear it, thank you! :)
Love the bun! I do read a lot of non-fiction, but mainly science-y stuff, and history, biographies. It's still immensely interesting, but they're generally not things that make me feel like I have to do something with them /right now/, while still enhancing my understanding of many things, including myself.
The bun is super cute ☺️ Thanks for your advice and support. I needed it today ❤
Aw thanks!!! The bun is comfortable too, with the parting in the middle the bun doesn't pull on my scalp or anything :) Have a great day and take care!
Gracias
I do these and find them so helpful. It really helped to hear of these as it was encouraging after last week feeling exhausted. The low bun is very elegant and suits you. ❤
Thank you so much! Take care my friend and have a lovely day! 🤗🌱🍵❤️
i first stumbled into your videos with the episode about NIKSEN - i do sooooo love this word
and this is what i try to take over in my days ❤❤❤
and i like your bun too 🙋🏼♀️
that good clip. I like this.
Lovely format and peaceful video. Thank you
Happy to hear it! :)
This content continues to be so practical & amazing! Thank you, Vera, for your ongoing tips to live a more enjoyable life in simpler though highly underrated ways! ❤
I am digging the low bun Vera! Your hair looks thick enough to pull it off! And the silver hoop earrings are the cherry on top! :)
You are a very wise person!
I will watch this video again and save it, because it's so much Information in it. Good work Vera 🎉
That's wonderful to hear, thank you! 🤗💕🌱
You know I think I'm going to try making sure my breaks are away from my phone. I also love reading fiction but I usually wait before bed and stick to non-fiction during the day. I may have to rethink that...
Right now I'm reading Burkeman's Meditations for Mortals, excellent book that fits really well into the slow living theme. I recommend it for anyone feeling like there's too much to do.
You made a great video, I will probably try all of these!
Ever since I took a Reiki class several years ago I learned to place my hands on my body as a way of sending healing energy to myself and this has been life changing. I now fall asleep every night with my hands on my body. For example, I may place one hand on my forehead and another on my stomach or my heart. It really calms down my highly sensitive nervous system and allows me to drift off to sleep with my body feeling nurtured and calm. Anyone can do this (reiki or not) but for most people it’s a new concept because nobody ever taught us to offer self care to ourselves in this way.
Robin from The Science of Self-Care just did a video on why the Dutch are so healthy. She is Dutch-American and recently moved back to the US after 20 years in the US, then 10 years in Holland. Vera, you might find it an interesting perspective.
Oh that sounds really interesting! Thanks for the tip Robert, I'll check it out and let you know what I think!
I love a staycation 😊
I completely love this video! I want to implement most, if not all, of the tips that you provided; I am looking to revamp my routines, and adding this slowness approach is just what I needed! I absolutely love the low bun, I might have to give it a try myself- I am also looking for new hair idea's.
Thank you so much! And yes try it, it's really easy and comfortable as well, since it doesn't pull on your scalp or anything
I have been trying the low bun, and I love it! @SimpleHappyZen
Hi Vera! Lately I’ve been trying to be more mindful about time spent on my phone… it really can become such a time consuming habit.
Did you get out for your walk to recover? 🤞 As a fellow HSP, I know how difficult it is to have to listen to all that construction noise… 😬 On top of that you were trying to make a video! I want to acknowledge that you did a great job and thank you! ❤
Thank you so much for this video. It definitely opened my eyes to lots of things I'm doing or should be doing differently. Love your videos! So inspiring ❤much needed.
You're so welcome, glad you found some helpful tips here! Take care 🤗🌻🌺
Hi there, LOVE your videos. Stopped half way watching this one to make a cup of tea because I was rushing and thinking about the next task at hand, so tips integrated!
Book tip: In praise of slow, by C. Honore, you will love it.
Awesome!! 🤗🍵 And thanks for the book tip too!
I really love this video! First watch was to relax, but I will totally rewatch it to write some things down that I want to try!
Wonderful to hear, thank you! 🤗💕🌱
Th low bun is very cute. I know one of my big things is to treat self care as important as other things.
Very good slow living tips. I do like your hair in the low bun. I also style mine that way.
Thank you Pamela 🤗🌳🌱
your hair looks very nice 🥰 the hairstyle suits you very much
Aw thank you! It's comfortable and easy too 🤗❤️
So many helpful tips to try . I like the idea of 5 deep breaths. Also to put the fork down while chewing your food. I can’t wait to try it . Thank you!
I will try them all ! Thank you so much ❤
What a lovely video. There are some great tips there and some I need to implement in my life. Thanks you z
Excellent video with a lot of insights! 👌👌😊
Thoroughly enjoyed watching it…❤
Such an excellent video, as always. Thank you
Love this video! Thank you for sharing all the ideas. I've incorporated No Plans weekends once per month for a year and it has helped me slow down to enjoy hobbies. Thanks again for another fantastic video!
Pomodoro variation for me, I'd try that, probably 45 mins deep work and 15 min break. 25-5 mins seem so short to me as well. Thanks so much Vera for the slow living tips!
1. The bun is good. The lavender is good, too! 2. Number 25 is something I've been working on, my habits around that, what drives them, why I'm resistant. It feels important to observe. 3. May I recommend to folks the book World Enough & Time: On Creativity and Slowing Down? By Christian McEwen. A lovely read, helpful about time and care even if you're not creative. Honestly a life-changing book and one I turn to a lot. Thanks for these tips, Vera!
Self hugging does not sound “weird” at all. It makes perfect sense to me. For example, I walk long distances and as part of my morning routine I give myself a relaxing foot massage. I also languidly and slowly massage other parts of my body which gives me gentle stretches and many benefits. Since I don’t have much physical contact with others in my life it is also a bit of compensation for this.
Love these tips, I enjoy sitting and closing my eyes for a few minutes, it really helps rest my brain. Loving your hair today Vera, very pretty ❤
Hi Vera, first of all, I love your hair parted in the middle and the low bun, it looks very “Latina”, the earrings & makeup are perfect 🤩….I love staring out the window, I feel it grounds me in some weird way, I also love sighing and do it pretty often at random times, I guess it’s my body’s response to overstimulation & stress. It’s funny because when I was a little girl my dad will tell my siblings and I to chew each bite of food 20 times before we swallow, I’m not sure where he learned that (maybe the army) but he was a really wise man, this was like 55/60 years ago but it is so true, eating slowly has so many benefits for us physically & mentally!!! I hope you were able to get away from some of the construction noise yesterday 🙉 ..Enjoy your day Vera 🌷🌷🌷
Thank you Joan!! Funny how you also love sighing and staring out the window :) Yes it's so grounding. Also that your dad would tell you to chew 20 times. Many people don't chew enough :) And yes, the construction noise got really bad there for a while, like they were drilling inside my head, but luckily it's better now. They did come to introduce themselves and apologize for the noise, so that also helped. Have a great day!
My husband recently started to play games on his phone and I had never seen him doing that before. I'm like, "Why?" I feel like lately he doesn't know how to just sit and do nothing, and he used to be very much one of those "art of doing nothing" types. Hopefully he'll see what's going on. I love slow living minimalism! Yey! I never heard of pomodoro technique and like it! I love to read fiction. I read a lot of books but don't give myself a goal of how many per week or month I need to read. I just see if I get sucked in or not. Somehow, that usually means it takes me only 3 days to get through a book, and other times it drags for a week and a half.
I don't ever do self-messaging, so I will work on that. I haven't done the whole listening to a song and just focusing on it without distraction, so I'll do that too. Thanks!
hugging urself advice!!❤ thankyou so much ! much needed
You're so welcome, enjoy!! 🤗🍵💕
After finally getting in for the needed massage… and years after trying to heal from an extreme physical, mental traumatic event that was almost my last… I celebrate- an evening in my underwear, & bra~ Yes, 🙌🏽 we Can say it.. do it.. begin a new, The true: love of self; from the inside Out. I feel you on ‘mad that it’s Weird, to hug & hold on to the self. That is backwards as we waste too much time serving others before self.
Let’s love again, & remember what that really means.
Slow Down 🤍
Hi Vera. I enjoyed this so much I watched it twice. Thank you for the idea to set down my fork/spoon between bites. I’m going to try that. And I like your low bun. 😊 Props to you for being able to have a calm presence even with construction noise! I was impressed by that, and it was a good lesson for all of us.
Low bun suits you well, a refreshing change. Useful tips worth considering, thanks Vera.
Helpful video - thank you!
I always love your tips, I need to try sitting still for 2 minutes ❤
Thank you!
Love the low bun. Love from Canada.