THE SLOW LIVING MOVEMENT.

Slow Living is a life philosophy that encourages a calm and more balanced lifestyle, calling for the enjoyment of the present moment. The concept creates space for mindfulness; whilst enhancing connections with loved ones and the environment. To live slowly allows us to be intentional with our time and conscious of our surroundings.

There is a cost to today’s societal fast-paced living, whether on our health or wellbeing. However, this can be easily counterbalanced by embracing slow pleasures. As part of the Koto ethos, we are deeply passionate about the slow living movement and believe this holistic approach is key to experiencing a higher-quality, tranquil life.

On the Slow Movement, Norwegian philosopher Guttorm Fløistad, wrote:

“The only thing for certain is that everything changes. The rate of change increases. If you want to hang on, you better speed up. That is the message of today. It could however be useful to remind everyone that our basic needs never change. The need to be seen and appreciated. It is the need to belong. The need for nearness and care, and for a little love! This is given only through slowness in human relations. In order to master changes, we have to recover slowness, reflection, and togetherness. There we will find real renewal.”

Koto Loyly (steam) off grid floating sauna 2021.

| How do I live a slow life?

The average day’s work or social schedule can be rushed and chaotic; as humans, evolution has led us to believe that busy equates to good. But more often than not, less is more.

The art of living a slow life lies not in decreasing your physical pace but consuming less on a day-to-day basis- unplugging digitally, practising mindfulness, connecting with nature, and investing yourself fully without distractions.

Through the various growing slow movements - slow design, slow fashion, slow food, slow travel, slow money - slow living has become increasingly accessible and sustainable for people to embrace.

| Where can I live for a slower pace of life?

When reflecting on where to live for a slower pace of life, remember that slow living doesn't necessarily align with a precise location or living environment. Instead, treat it as the need to be more purposeful with your time.

It’s the notion that the simple things are those that matter, and there is always beauty in the mundane.

Scandinavian culture inspired the slow living concept, but it is the mindset rather than the geographical matter that encapsulates the philosophy. For instance, taking quality time in nature with friends and family - wherever that may be - can be one of life’s great luxuries.

| Slow Living Home Design

Much of our design inspiration has come from the essence of the Scandinavian concept “hygge”, which encapsulates slow living by creating a calming, minimalistic atmosphere to enjoy simple pleasures.

We believe that well-designed spaces can positively transform an environment. We have designed each Koto modular cabin product with beauty, simplicity, and functionality at its core. Guided by the principles of sustainability and the use of natural materials in home design, a sense of balance is created.

To have less, to live more consciously, and to seek meaning beyond materialism, encouraging people to live slower and appreciate the things that matter most in life.