Lulu says slow down!

Lulu says slow down!

For the launch of Lulu’s new, graphic ‘Slow Down’ collection, here are our tips on how to slow it right down.


We’ve been thinking lately, it’s important to slow down, take a breath, and look at the world around us. The world around us is as fast as ever - we need to slow down and take things at a slow, snail pace!

It’s true. With our attention constantly being pulled from notifications pinging on our smart phones to 24-7 work email culture, then there’s home, family and friend commitments, it’s hardly surprising that sometimes we feel a little strung out. This is why it’s important to take some time for ourselves, for self-care (a buzz word, yes, but a worthwhile one), to break the cycle of constantly living in the low level ‘fight or flight mode’ that modern living creates. With this in mind, here are some suggestions to help you slow it down…



Go for a walk

Yes, we know you’ve heard it before but placing one foot in front of the other leads to some seriously impressive mental and physical benefits. One Stanford University study found that walking increased creative output by an average of 60 percent. According to the study, “walking opens up the free flow of ideas” - allowing our minds to wander promotes a mental state conducive to innovative ideas and “ah-ha!” moments. Walking is also a proven mood booster, as well as increasing energy levels. What’s not to love?

Try mediation or yoga

Meditation is for everyone, you know? You don’t have to be on an ashram in India, Eat, Pray, Love style. Taking time out to still the mind and block out the ‘noise’ can be massively beneficial. Many people use it as a way to reduce stress and develop concentration. The practice can also engender a positive mood and outlook, self-discipline and even help improve sleep patterns. Don’t know where to start? Try one of the popular apps, like Calm or Headspace and build it into your day.



Indulge in some pampering

Now we’re talking. This is your excuse to say yes to the facial you’ve been eyeing, make a candlelit bath with your favourite oil the norm rather than the exception, or book in a regular massage. Pampering might be seen as indulgent but it’s also really good for your health to take that time to give your body, and mind, some care and attention. Time to make a date with #selfcaresunday?


Disconnect from the digital space

Sometimes it’s good to go off grid, even if it’s just for an hour or two. Experts say we should be putting away our screens a couple of hours before bed to help with sleep quality, so that’s one to consider. It’s definitely worth breaking the cycle of constant phone-checking to improve both the quality of your time and your concentration levels. The constant phone notifications play havoc with the hormones racing around our bodies that are triggered as soon as we hear a ping. So yeah, factor in some device-free time. Your dinner date will thank you for it, too!

Spend time with the ones you love

Sometimes you can’t beat meeting people IRL. According to studies, face-to-face communication, as opposed to digital, significantly reduces the occurrence of depression, anxiety, and other mental illness. Being physically present with loved ones creates a strong emotional support to buoy you up through life's challenges. Not to mention, it’s a good excuse to get dressed up and go out, too, surrounded by your favourite people.

Get green-fingered

A favourite of Lulu herself, gardening is proven to have massive mental health benefits. According to the Royal Horticultural Society (HRS), gardening has a long and connected history to science and medicine, and as well as being a great calorie burner, there are research studies showing significant reductions in depression and anxiety and improved social functioning. In 2021, the RHS released research that revealed those who garden every day have wellbeing scores 6.6% higher and stress levels 4.2% lower than people who don’t garden at all. Time to dig out those pruning sheers?

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