5 Simple Ways I've Been Embracing Mindful Living Lately

This year, I’ve been making a conscious effort to slow down - I'm taking the time to pause, breathe and be more present in the everyday moments. Life as a small business owner (and mum to young kids) is a blessing, but also undeniably hectic. Between work, family and endless to-do lists, it’s all too easy to rush through the days on autopilot.

Over the last few months, I’ve started to incorporate a few intentional rituals into my day-to-day routine. Nothing grand or ground-breaking, just some small actions that make me feel calm and connected - and these have become rituals that I genuinely look forward to each day.

Here are five ways that I've been embracing mindful living lately:

1. Journalling with gratitude:

Each night, after the kids go to bed, I take a few minutes to write in my journal. I note down three things I’m grateful for that day - a simple gratitude practice that helps calm my mind and shift my mindset. It’s such an easy and meaningful way to reflect on the day, and I already can see the difference this nightly ritual has made on my overall positivity.

2.    Writing with a fountain pen:

This small change has been surprisingly powerful. I’ve always preferred writing with a pen and paper over a keyboard and screen. Using a fountain pen - for my journalling as well as note-taking during the day - slows me down in the best way. There’s something so meditative about writing with a slow rhythm and feeling the ink glide smoothly across the page. Each word feels intentional, and it forces me to be gentle and deliberate. No rushed scribbles, no scattered thoughts making it onto the page. It turns ordinary writing into something carefully considered.

3. Making matcha:

A long-time gumboot tea lover, I’ve recently discovered the calming ritual of making matcha. Yes, matcha having a moment right now (as is apparent from the constant stream of advertising on my Instagram feed!). But I do genuinely love it, not just for the taste and health benefits, but also for the process. Whisking the vibrant green tea, watching the froth form - it's so nice to take a few minutes out of my day for this slow, peaceful process.

Making matcha, a slow and peaceful process

4. Drinking from a handmade mug:

Now, this isn’t a new ritual for me, but I'm including it here because it still brings me so much joy. Just like handcrafted jewellery, handmade ceramics carry a certain energy and warmth that mass-produced items never can. It’s the personal touch, the human connection, the knowing that a REAL PERSON used their own two hands to create the beautiful piece I hold. Drinking from a handmade mug gives me a quiet moment of pleasure that makes my day seem richer. The unique shapes, textures and perfect imperfections celebrate creativity, connection and care – all values that are at the very heart of my own jewellery business.

My current favourites, all created by NZ makers (Front - Land and Line Ceramics; Left - Earl Grey Clay; Right - Ceramics by Fiona)

5. Morning runs:

Running might not sound like it belongs on a list about “slowing down”, but for me, it’s all about clearing mental space. I've recently started running two or three time per week. During these morning runs, I'm free from the countless thoughts usually competing for attention in my mind. I can just focus on breathing and putting one foot in front of the other - nothing else. Some days I listen to a podcast or music; other days I just tune into the world around me. It’s a beautiful mindfulness in motion.

The beautiful scenery on my morning runs in Northwood, Christchurch

These regular habits might sound small or mundane, but the way I see it, mindful living isn’t about big, drastic changes - it’s about noticing and appreciating the simple pleasures that already exist in our day-to-day lives. When we slow down and approach our days with intention, even the smallest moments can bring a quiet kind of happiness - and that may be all that we need to carry us through the day.

What about you? Do you have any daily rituals that help you to slow down and live more mindfully? Let me know in the comments - I'd love to hear!

Aurelium jewellery is designed and handmade by Laura Naik in her Christchurch studio. Read more about her work and the ethos behind her minimalist everyday jewellery here.