Joie de Vivre

Lessons from the French on Slowing Down

Summary

The article titled Lessons from the French on Slowing Down captures the beauty of intentionally slowing down and savouring life in an increasingly fast-paced, digitalised world. It highlights the French approach of prioritising the quality of life, embracing routines and valuing meaningful connections. The piece illustrates how they incorporate this in their lifestyle through lavish meal courses, weekly trips to farmers markets, digital detox and laws that protect an employee’s right to disconnect. Their lifestyle epitomises ‘joie de vivre’ through mandatory vacations, long lunches and intentional socializing. The article also mentions how small habits such as everyday walks, getting some sun can be crucial for good health. Ultimately, it offers some tips to incorporate this ‘slowing down’ in our daily routines and improve the quality of our lives.

In a world where everything moves rapidly and change is the only constant, the French stand out for embracing routine and intentionally slowing down. There is a strong emphasis on connection, pleasure and happiness. They carve time out of their busy schedules and devote it to tasks that enhance the quality of life as seen in their weekly trips to the farmer's market for fresh produce. These outings offer an opportunity to enjoy fresh air, select quality produce and connect with neighbours. A little bit of sunshine, fresh produce and social interaction go a long way when it comes to physical and mental well-being. 

Their multi- course meals mirror these values, serving as a testament to the French art of connection and quality living. It shows how they do not ‘eat to live’ but ‘live to eat’. The meal begins with an apéritif— a small drink accompanied by light snacks like olives, nuts, pâté. It allows people to get settled in and engage in conversations. This is followed by an entrée (starter), the plat principal (main course) and concluding with a cheese course, dessert and beverages. These leisurely meals encourage families and friends to slow down together, savour the flavours and cherish each other's company. 

The French also portray ‘joie de vivre’, joy of living, through extended vacations such as the entire month of August, mandatory two week vacations, a thirty-five hour work week, long lunches and by strictly respecting their work hours. They are often seen sipping coffee or wine on a sunny terrace simply living in the moment. Many travellers frequently experience this sense of calm wash over them, inspiring them to pause the hustle and live life the way it is supposed to be lived. 

Although hard work is essential for our economic well-being, taking deliberate pauses and setting aside some time for ourselves is crucial for our mental and physical health. Engaging in pastime activities fuels our creativity, refreshes the mind and allows us to appreciate life. 

The French are known for prioritising work-life balance. Along with their fine cuisine, leisurely walks, and mandatory vacations, they have also established laws which allows them to strictly maintain their working hours, thereby improving their quality of life. While most countries might not have laws like the Le Droit de la déconnexion (Right to Disconnect) which enables them to ignore work emails after 5pm and before 9am and during holidays, we can try to incorporate this slow living into our daily routines in the following ways: 

1)Taking short walks: this allows us to disconnect from our increasingly digitalized world and get in touch with nature. 

2)Making self care a priority: Whether it is savouring your morning coffee, getting some sunlight, exercising, adopting a sustainable skincare routine. Anything that fills your cup. 

3)Intentional socializing: Increasing digitization has also led to increased isolation which can have deteriorating effects on our mental and physical well-being. Regular meet-ups with family, friends and keeping in touch also help. 

4)Engaging with art: Visits to museums, art galleries, watching quality plays and cinema can stimulate intellectual curiosity and conversations, further deepening connections. 

These habits can bring us a step closer to achieving a sustainable work-life balance. Due to increased digitization, there is constant pressure to always respond to emails and remain available round the clock. The French approach to work and maintaining professional boundaries is especially relevant during this digital age. Their lifestyle and culture also promotes digital detox which paves the path for deeper connections and a more fulfilling life. 

In a world that equates stress and busyness with success, the French way of intentional living and slowing down offers an entirely refreshing perspective. It reminds us of the things that truly matter—presence, meaningful connections and simple joys.It not only teaches us to value and nurture our connections with loved ones, but also with ourselves. The simple practices mentioned above could be small yet meaningful steps towards making our lives better.