Welcome to Slower: Your Permission to Pause
“Slow down, breathe deeply, and discover the beauty of being present.”
This space is for the woman who feels like life is moving too fast, who’s juggling too much, and who’s ready to reclaim her time. Slower isn’t about doing less—it’s about doing what matters, living intentionally, and creating space for clarity and joy.
Here, you’ll find inspiration, tools, and resources to help you embrace the power of pause and unhurried living.
10 Books to Help You Slow Down
Dive into these inspiring reads by brilliant Black women who share wisdom on mindfulness, intentional living, and embracing a slower pace.
- Rest Is Resistance: A Manifesto by Tricia Hersey
- Learn why rest is a radical act of self-care and a pathway to liberation.
- Buy on Amazon
- Sacred Rest: Recover Your Life, Renew Your Energy, Restore Your Sanity by Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith
- Discover the seven types of rest you need to live a balanced and fulfilling life.
- Buy on Amazon
- Breathe: A Letter to My Sons by Imani Perry
- A beautifully written meditation on being present, navigating life’s challenges, and finding peace in the chaos.
- Buy on Amazon
- Radical Self-Care: A Guide for Black Women by Kozi Kihara
- A powerful guide to nurturing yourself and reclaiming your time and energy.
- Buy on Amazon
- Set Boundaries, Find Peace: A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself by Nedra Glover Tawwab
- Practical advice on how to set boundaries and protect your peace without guilt.
- Buy on Amazon
- What I Know for Sure by Oprah Winfrey
- A collection of deeply personal insights from Oprah on gratitude, joy, and slowing down to savor life’s moments.
- Buy on Amazon
- Stillness Is the Key by Ryan Holiday (with commentary by Black women thought leaders)
- While not authored by a Black woman, the themes are echoed and expanded upon by voices like Dr. Thema Bryant in podcasts and talks. Pair this with her work for deeper insight.
- Buy on Amazon
- Self-Care for Black Women: 150 Ways to Radically Accept & Prioritize Your Mind, Body, & Soul by Oludara Adeeyo
- A treasure trove of practical self-care tips for slowing down and connecting with yourself.
- Buy on Amazon
- Black Girl in Love (with Herself): A Guide to Self-Love, Healing, and Creating the Life You Truly Deserve by Trey Anthony
- A heartfelt guide to overcoming burnout and living life on your terms.
- Buy on Amazon
- The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks (Reflections by Black Women Leaders)
- Though not by a Black author, this book’s themes of overcoming limiting beliefs have inspired many Black women thought leaders, who expand on its ideas in their own work.
How to Create Your Own Slower Life
Feeling inspired? Here are some simple, sisterly tips to bring a little more “slow” into your daily routine:
- Start Your Day Slowly: Wake up 15 minutes earlier to sip your coffee, stretch, or journal before diving into the day.
- Set a “No Phone” Hour: Create boundaries around technology by unplugging for an hour each day.
- Walk with Intention: Take a leisurely walk and notice the sights, sounds, and smells around you.
- Create a Slow Evening Ritual: Dim the lights, light a candle, and spend 30 minutes winding down with a good book or calming music.
- Practice Saying No: Protect your energy by gracefully declining commitments that don’t align with your priorities.
- Breathe Deeply: Pause throughout the day for a few intentional, deep breaths to recenter yourself.
- Schedule Rest: Add “do nothing” time to your calendar—rest is productive, too.
- Savor Your Meals: Instead of eating on the go, sit down and truly enjoy your food, bite by bite.
- Reflect on Your Day: End your day by jotting down one moment you felt present or grateful.
- Visit this Space Often: Bookmark this section and come back whenever you need a reminder to slow down.
Why Slower Matters
Slowing down isn’t about giving up or falling behind—it’s about stepping into your power, taking control of your time, and creating a life that feels aligned and fulfilling.
This is your space to pause, reflect, and reconnect with what truly matters. So take your time, explore, and find your slower rhythm.

