In a culture that’s constantly urging us to go faster and prioritise productivity, slowmaxxing is a radical act of self-care.
Let’s face it, life these days feels like a never-ending treadmill. We’re always moving, but are we really getting anywhere?
When was the last time you opened a recipe book instead of scrolling for dinner inspo, ground your coffee beans by hand instead of grabbing instant, or read an actual 800-page novel instead of the audiobook version?
Enter slowmaxxing, the lifestyle trend taking TikTok (and our frazzled lives) by storm. Part mindfulness, part rebellion against hustle culture, it’s a movement with a mission: slow down, breathe and reclaim your time.
L360 spoke to the experts to find out how this TikTok-approved trend could help you swap burnout for balance — and why it’s not just another fleeting wellness fad.
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What is slowmaxxing?
At its core, slowmaxxing, according to self-empowerment expert Moon Onyx Starr, is about mindfully and purposefully taking our time doing our daily tasks.
She says: “The concept is simple yet profound: by purposefully slowing down activities like eating, showering or working, we give ourselves space to recharge and find balance.
“This isn’t just about relaxation; it’s about creating a sustainable foundation for achieving our goals and avoiding burnout.”
The need for slowmaxxing in our current culture is clear.
“Most of us live our lives at such a pace that we are scarcely aware of what we’re doing,” confidence coach and behavioural expert Jo Emerson explains. “We’re constantly buzzing with what’s next, not present with our bodies, and fixated on the future. This leads to burnout, anxiety, depression, poor sleep and a host of physical illnesses associated with stress.”
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Slowmaxxing encourages us to take a step back. By embracing a more measured pace, it reduces stress hormones like cortisol, helping us sleep better, feel more confident, and build stronger relationships.
“In short, it allows the brain and body to move more gently through the day,” Jo says. While it may seem like just another wellness buzzword, slowmaxxing is more than that — it’s a way to reclaim your life.
Wellness guru Killian Campbell says: “It’s a way to break free from the fast-paced rush of modern life, allowing you to reset, recharge and cultivate a deeper sense of calm.
“Slowmaxxing reminds us that joy and fulfilment often come from savouring the process rather than racing toward the outcome.”
Why rushing is bad for us
We all know the feeling: rushing out the door, glued to your phone, mentally ticking off a to-do list. But did you know this frantic pace can leave your nervous system on red alert?
“Our bodies aren’t designed for constant activity,” Jo warns. “Living in a state of ‘fight or flight’ keeps us overstimulated and exhausted.”
She reminisces about her own childhood, filled with quiet moments of boredom that sparked creativity and calm. Contrast that with today’s constant notifications and screen time, and it’s clear why slowmaxxing feels like a lifeline.
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How to break old habits
If the idea of slowing down feels impossible, Jo suggests starting with small, achievable steps:
- List the downsides of rushing, then jot down the benefits you’d gain by slowing down.
- Write yourself a pledge — promise to approach life at a slower pace this year.
- Be kind to yourself. “Old habits die hard,” Jo reminds us. “If you catch yourself rushing, pause, breathe and refocus.”
Even tiny rituals can help. Holistic wellness expert Lucy Da Silva swears by slow hydration. “I use a favourite glass and sip slowly, focusing on how each sip nourishes me. It’s grounding and energising,” she says.
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5 ways to start slowmaxxing today
Ready to join the slowmaxxing revolution? Here’s how to dip your toes into the trend:
- Start your morning with a breathing exercise. Bonus points if you do it outside. “It’s a calming way to set your intentions for the day,” Jo says.
- Whether it’s your commute or a lunchtime stroll, leave your phone behind. “Tune into the rhythm of your steps and the sights and sounds around you,” Moon suggests.
- Moon recommends leaving early for work. “Instead of rushing, enjoy your commute mindfully. Listen to music, a podcast, or just be present. You’ll arrive calmer and more centred.”
- Take micro-pauses. Set reminders to step away, breathe, and reset during your day.
- Try transforming your shower into a sensory experience. Focus on the warmth of the water, the scent of your soap and the sound of the flow. Moon advises: “Visualise stress washing away, leaving you refreshed and grounded.”
