“In a society based on speed and productivity, moving slowly is a radical act.”
— Yung Pueblo
Recently, I’ve found myself in many conversations about slow - both its quiet power and its challenges. We know, deep down, that making space for ourselves is important. Meditation, rest, time in nature - they’ve become widely recognised (even medically approved) as antidotes to stress. But actually living slowly? That can feel like swimming against the current in a culture obsessed with doing more, faster.
The Challenge of Slow
It’s not that we lack the tools. It’s that our world - and our minds - are wired for speed. Most of us would find it easier to complete a tough workout than to sit in silence for 30 minutes. Our minds are conditioned for activity, and our senses constantly crave stimulation.
We live in a time of instant everything. One click gives us what we want: products, entertainment, people, jobs, knowledge. With that kind of convenience, why would we wait for anything? But deep down, we know that constantly chasing, striving, and scrolling isn’t sustainable. It leaves us feeling depleted.
The result? Rising burnout, or what’s now being called vital exhaustion. (Though I’d argue there’s nothing vital about it.) We’re overwhelmed not just by our responsibilities, but by our disconnection - from our bodies, our minds, from nature, and even from each other.
Reclaiming Choice
Like everything in life, at least the worthwhile things, there is no quick fix. But the beautiful thing is, we always have a choice.
Every day, we choose (often without noticing) what we consume, what we engage with, how we spend our time, and where we place our attention. Those choices shape our wellbeing, our relationships, and even our communities.
When I created Sati, I chose to honour slow. I wanted to offer products that didn’t just support a meditative lifestyle but came from one. Instead of chasing fast profits, I chose small-batch production and natural materials and processes. I chose collaboration with artisans in India who block-print and naturally dye our fabrics with pomegranate rind, seed husks, and iron. I chose a 3-week process for a cushion (cushions that could be easily rushed through and mass-manufactured) because these are objects made to hold sacred space, not just fill homes. You can find out more about our slow, mindful making process here.
The Joy of Moving Gently
Living slowly isn’t always easy, especially at first. But when we allow ourselves to pause, to breathe, and to listen more closely, something softens. We reconnect. We remember. And we begin to feel the joy that only slowness can bring: peace, clarity, presence.
Our meditation cushions, yoga mat bags, and mindful jewellery aren’t just objects — they’re quiet invitations. To slow down. To return to what matters. To choose a gentler rhythm.
Because when we begin to change, even in small ways, the world around us begins to shift too.
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