In this video I read a poem of mine called “Slow Down.” Before I read it for you, I share some reflections on how pushing too hard and fast to heal can keep us from making progress. Slowing down can be key for recovering from mind-body symptoms. To take this topic deeper, please use the reflection questions and writing prompts in my “Slowing Down” PDF below.
Download “Slowing Down”
Download my free PDF which includes reflection questions, writing prompts and my poem “Slow Down”.
Slow Down
This morning I’m so tired
from pushing myself hard,
that as I drive down this country road
I can’t bring myself to go
anywhere close to the speed limit.
I feel like a silver haired lady
peeking over my steering wheel
as I creep along, letting
the cars whiz by me.
I always assume the elderly
go slowly because they’re cautious,
not wanting to hit anyone
or miss the ambulance
racing down the road with siren blaring.
But maybe they’ve figured out
a secret that I’m still trying to learn.
What if driving slowly
is the only way
to live my best life,
to keep from running so fast
that I go right past myself?
Running by the small child inside
who seeks to fill herself with wonder,
passing up the chance for rest,
for play, to slow myself
long enough to notice
how pleasant the rain sounds
dripping onto the roof
of the house next door,
tiny wet whispers tapping
those few remaining leaves
clinging to the maple
in my backyard,
an almost silent thrumming
slowing down my weary soul.
The steady slow chime
of church bells ringing
in the distance, in this moment,
reminding me, I’ve already
been given all that I need.
Ready to go deeper in your mind-body healing? Join us for the mind-body deep dive in September by taking How We Heal Chronic Pain and Fatigue. Get on the waiting list today, registration opens in June! Reach out to us with any questions at howweheal@michellewiegers.com
