The Fear of Stillness: Why Slowing Down Feels So Hard
In a world that glorifies busyness, stillness can feel almost impossible. When we slow down, even for a moment, we’re often met with discomfort—restlessness, unease, or the nagging thought that we should be doing something more productive. But beneath this discomfort lies an important question: What am I avoiding when I resist stillness?
For many, stillness is where the things we’ve buried begin to surface. The emotions we’ve tucked away, the questions we’ve been too busy to ask, the truths we’ve been avoiding—they all find their way into the quiet. And that can feel overwhelming. It’s easier to keep moving, to fill the silence with noise, than to sit with what’s waiting in the stillness.
But avoiding stillness comes at a cost. When we constantly distract ourselves, we lose the opportunity to connect with our inner world. We miss the chance to notice what we truly need, to process what we’re feeling, and to rest in the quiet wisdom that only arises when we pause.
Stillness isn’t about doing nothing; it’s about being. It’s about creating a space to listen—to your emotions, your body, your intuition. It’s in these moments of stillness that clarity can emerge, that healing can begin, that you can reconnect with yourself beyond the noise of daily life.
If stillness feels hard, start small. Take a few deep breaths and notice what arises. Sit in silence for a minute and let the discomfort be there without judgment. Journal your thoughts or feelings, not to fix them, but to give them a voice. Over time, these small acts of stillness can grow into a practice—a way to cultivate presence and find balance in a busy world.
Exploration for Stillness
Journaling Prompt: What emotions or thoughts arise when I allow myself to be still? What might they be asking me to pay attention to?
Mindfulness Practice: Set a timer for two minutes. Sit in silence and focus on your breath. When thoughts arise, notice them, and gently bring your attention back to your breath.
Reflection Question: What might I discover about myself if I gave myself permission to slow down?
Stillness may feel uncomfortable at first, but it’s not something to fear. It’s a gift—a space to reconnect, to heal, and to simply be. Let’s explore the power of stillness together.
