Finding Stillness in a Hectic World: How I Press Pause

Lately, I’ve noticed a shift. The weather’s changing, routines are shifting, and I’m resisting the urge to hibernate. There’s something about autumn that makes me crave rest. Between wearing cosy clothes, watching the nights grow longer, and thinking ahead to winter, I find myself gravitating toward soft blankets and hearty meals.

I have a confession, I love to sleep. Like, really love it. Naps? Absolutely. If I’m home and need a quick recharge, I’ll grab one. My trick? I make a cup of tea right before. By the time it cools down, it’s time to wake up, sip my tea, and get on with the day. A quick 20-minute nap does wonders without messing with my night time sleep.

Another little reset I swear by? Looking up at the sky. There’s something about gazing at that vastness that helps me clear my head. It’s a simple reminder of how small we are in the grand scheme of things—and it always brings me a little peace when my mind’s buzzing with too many thoughts. The best thing about this is you can do it almost anywhere, the sky is always there.

Why Pausing Feels So Hard (But So Important)

I get it. Taking time out can feel impossible in today’s world. Everything is fast, hurried, and the pressure can feel constant. We’re living in an instant-gratification society where it feels like there’s never enough time to just stop and breathe. Expectations run high, and we’re often left feeling like we can’t afford to slow down.

But what do you do when it all gets too much? Here are a few ways I press pause and invite a little stillness into my day.

Simple Ways to Add Stillness to Your Day

Arriving Early: Whenever I travel somewhere, I try to arrive a little early. If I’m in the car, I take a few minutes to just breathe and ground myself before stepping out. This helps me focus on the present moment. Sometimes, I even do this when I get home—letting myself mentally leave the day behind before walking through the door.

Creating Quiet Time: When the world feels noisy, I find peace in lighting a candle. I pick a scent that matches my mood, watch the flame, and let my thoughts wander. Instead of judging my mind’s chatter, I observe it (if you try this, stick with it, this takes practice). Sometimes, I close my eyes for a bit and just sit with it all.

Making Space for Stillness

Stillness, quiet, and contemplation are key when everything feels too loud. Taking just a few moments to reconnect with yourself can make a world of difference. Whether it’s a short pause in the car, a nap with a cup of tea waiting, or simply looking at the sky—these small acts of stillness can help us recharge, reset, and refocus.

If you’ve never tried any of these strategies, consider giving one a go next time you find yourself wanting to press pause. Till next time.