Life, as we know it, has an unpredictable way of throwing us off course. From deadlines and looming responsibilities to personal milestones like planning a wedding, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of constant activity. For me, slowing down hasn’t always been the easiest thing. But earlier this year, I found a bit of a rhythm—a delicate balance between staying productive and actually enjoying the present moment. It was a fleeting sense of peace that I cherished…until everything changed.
When the pandemic hit, everything I had carefully planned came to an abrupt halt. Suddenly, my structured days felt like they were suspended in time. The pressure of productivity was replaced by a deep uncertainty that left me questioning everything from canceled travel plans to postponed work projects. The loss of normalcy was hard to navigate, and at times, it made me forget what truly mattered: self-care. But amidst this chaos, I realized something important—taking the time to slow down is the one thing that can still bring me joy.
Rediscovering Simple Pleasures
It wasn’t easy at first. My mind raced with what was missing: connection, structure, excitement. I found myself overwhelmed by these emotions until, one day, I decided to take a step back. I paused, peeled myself away from the constant barrage of news, and focused on what I could control.
And there it was—an old ritual I had once loved, waiting for me to return: a long, steamy bath. My apartment, built in the 1920s, has a vintage porcelain tub that’s deep and soothing. This tub, though old, holds a timeless charm. It’s a sanctuary where I can escape the noise of the world and truly unwind. And as soon as I sank into the warm water, I remembered why I had cherished it so much.
There’s something about the combination of warm water and quiet that feels incredibly healing. The sound of the water running is already enough to calm the mind, but when I add Epsom salts to the mix, it’s like my body instantly begins to release the tension it’s been holding onto. It’s a small act of self-care that can do wonders, especially when you take the time to fully enjoy it.
Creating a Tranquil Atmosphere
While baths are soothing in their own right, I like to enhance the experience with a few extra touches. The smell of a candle can completely change the energy of a room, so I light my Aerin candle, which fills the space with a delicate mix of white tuberose and jasmine. The scent is subtle but powerful, offering a form of “mind-harmonizing aromatherapy.” In the soft glow of the candlelight, I can truly feel myself begin to unwind.
I like to have a little variety in how I spend my bath time. Some nights, I curl up with a good book—old paperbacks that remind me of quieter times. Other evenings, I play soft jazz or classical music in the background. For a little more entertainment, I’ll stream a TV show or occasionally send a few work emails if it’s a particularly busy day. But no matter what, the goal is always the same: to be fully present in the moment and savor the peace that comes with it.
Sometimes, I even crack the window open to let in the cool night air. On stormy evenings, I love listening to the rain tap against the window, the sound blending with the warm water as if it were nature’s very own symphony. The gentle sound of droplets hitting the tub feels like a gentle reminder that everything is temporary, and in this moment, I’m allowed to pause and simply be.
Face Masks & Skincare: A Ritual of Renewal
The emotional toll of stress can often show up in our skin. During this period of uncertainty, I made a commitment to pamper myself with skincare routines that go beyond the surface. Face masks have become a key part of my nightly ritual. One of my favorites is the SK-II face mask, which has an almost magical effect on my skin. It’s hydrating, rejuvenating, and leaves me with a glowing complexion.
Though some of these masks can be on the pricier side, I’ve learned to use them wisely. Often, I’ll store the extra serum from the mask in the fridge and reuse it a couple of times, as the liquid doesn’t lose its effectiveness. Another simple—and budget-friendly—option is to use ice cubes to massage my face. This not only gives my skin a boost in circulation but also helps to tighten pores, leaving my skin feeling refreshed and revitalized.
The Joy of a Slow, Steady Routine
Sometimes, it’s the smallest actions that create the greatest sense of calm. I’ve learned to find joy in the quiet spaces, like the serenity of a bath, the peacefulness of a good book, or even the quiet hum of a candle burning. It’s all about setting aside time to nurture yourself in whatever way feels right. For me, these rituals have become a form of meditation, helping me to center myself and focus on what I can control in a world that feels chaotic.
I’ve found that when I give myself permission to slow down, I open up space for dreams and aspirations to flourish again. The mind, when given the opportunity to rest, can rediscover its creativity, its passion, and its sense of direction. And while this time of isolation has forced me to reevaluate many things, it’s also allowed me to prioritize what’s truly important: taking care of my mind, body, and spirit.
A Time to Reconnect with Myself
In the end, it’s about striking that balance. I may not have all the answers right now, and the world outside may continue to shift in unpredictable ways. But I do know this: there is power in taking time to pause, to nurture yourself, and to create moments of peace in the chaos. It’s not about rushing through life but rather about savoring the journey.
Slowing down doesn’t have to feel like a sacrifice—it can be a gift. Whether it’s a long bath, a quiet evening with a book, or simply sitting in silence, these moments remind me that happiness isn’t just about big milestones or fast-paced success. Sometimes, happiness is simply about the art of slowing down and finding joy in the present moment.