Today, I had the chance to return to my hometown, Perlis, and spend some time with my parents at Kampung Padang Pauh.
Both of them are retired teachers, and I find myself appreciating the simple life they’ve built here.
Funny enough, my first job was also as a teacher at Sekolah Menengah Agama Perempuan Perlis, an all-girls school right next to the State Mosque of Perlis.
As I took my dad out today to run a few errands and grab some dinner, I couldn’t help but notice how familiar everything felt. Perlis, being the smallest state in Malaysia, has this unique charm where you almost know everyone.
There’s a sense of closeness here that’s hard to find elsewhere. Life is slower, people are friendlier, and the sense of community is so strong.
It’s such a contrast to the fast-paced life in cities like Kuala Lumpur, where everyone is rushing from one task to another.
In Perlis, it feels like time stretches out, allowing you to breathe, reflect, and reconnect with what really matters. I’ve realized that life here gives me a chance to pause and reflect more deeply on where I’m at in life.
There’s something soothing about being back in a place that’s all about simplicity, connection, and nature.
Reflection in the Quiet of Perlis
Living in a place like Perlis reminds me of how important it is to take time to reflect. Without the constant noise and distractions of a big city, I find it easier to focus on the things that truly matter — family, relationships, and personal growth.
Being back home makes me appreciate the beauty of a minimalist, not-so-materialistic life. The people here aren’t chasing the latest trends or trying to outdo each other. Instead, they focus on enjoying the small things: a good meal, a quiet evening with family, or a simple conversation with friends.
Embracing Minimalism in Life
There’s a certain peace that comes with embracing a minimalist lifestyle, where less is more, and it’s not about how much you have, but how much you appreciate. Perlis embodies this perfectly.
You don’t need to fill your life with material things to feel content. Sometimes, it’s about enjoying the things that can’t be bought — like the view of endless paddy fields or the cool evening breeze under the mango tree in your backyard.
Some Quotes on Minimalism & Simplicity
“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.” – Leonardo da Vinci
“The more I simplify my life, the happier I become.” – Anonymous
“In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count, it’s the life in your years.” – Abraham Lincoln
Being in Perlis is a reminder that life doesn’t always need to be complicated. There’s something beautiful about slowing down, taking stock, and focusing on what truly brings joy.
It’s a place that teaches you that happiness doesn’t come from having more, but from being content with less. And in that simplicity, I’ve found a peace that I struggle to find anywhere else.
Returning to Perlis always serves as a reminder of the importance of reflection. In a world where we’re constantly moving, chasing goals, and crossing off to-do lists, it’s easy to forget to take a step back and evaluate where we are.
Self-reflection is essential because it gives us a moment to pause, think, and understand our lives, choices, and what truly makes us happy.
When you take the time to reflect, you’re better able to identify areas for improvement, celebrate progress, and make thoughtful decisions about the future.
Perlis, with its slow pace of life, naturally encourages self-reflection. Here, I find myself thinking about what matters most — family, relationships, and personal growth.
Being in a quieter environment allows for clarity, and that clarity often brings peace. We can get so caught up in the rush of daily life that we forget to simply be and appreciate the present moment.
5 Reasons to Slow Down Your Life Sometimes
1. Improved Mental Health
Slowing down allows your mind to rest and recharge. Constantly pushing yourself without breaks can lead to burnout, anxiety, and stress. When you take the time to slow down, your brain gets a chance to reset, improving your overall mental well-being.
2. Better Focus and Productivity
Slowing down doesn’t mean you’re less productive. In fact, taking regular breaks and slowing the pace helps you focus better on what truly matters. Studies have shown that working in a more balanced way increases long-term productivity.
3. Deeper Connections
When you slow down, you’re able to be more present with those around you. You listen more, engage deeply, and build stronger, more meaningful relationships. It’s easier to appreciate those moments when you’re not in a rush.
4. Increased Creativity
When your brain isn’t overloaded with constant tasks and information, it has room to explore new ideas.
Many people find that their most creative moments come when they’re relaxed and not under pressure. Slowing down fosters an environment where creativity can thrive.
5. Enhanced Physical Health
Stress from a fast-paced life has been linked to a variety of physical health problems like high blood pressure, heart disease, and a weakened immune system.
By slowing down and reducing stress, you’re giving your body a chance to recover and maintain better health.
Scientific Research on the Benefits of Slowing Down
Slowing down life is more than just a feel-good concept — it’s backed by science. Research shows that taking regular breaks and allowing for reflection has a positive impact on our mental and physical well-being.
For example:
1. The Impact of Stress on Health:
A study published by the American Psychological Association found that chronic stress, often a result of a fast-paced life, can lead to significant health issues like cardiovascular disease, obesity, and even depression.
Slowing down and engaging in relaxing activities, such as mindfulness or spending time in nature, helps to reduce stress levels and improve overall health.
2. Mindfulness and Well-being:
Research from Harvard Medical School shows that mindfulness practices, which encourage slowing down and being present, can increase happiness, improve sleep, and reduce anxiety.
When you slow down, you become more mindful of your surroundings and your emotions, which promotes a more balanced and peaceful life.
3. The Brain and Downtime:
Neuroscientists at the University of Southern California found that when the brain is at rest, it’s actually engaging in important processes, like memory consolidation and problem-solving.
This “downtime” allows the brain to process information better, leading to clearer thinking and better decision-making when you return to your tasks.
4. Increased Focus Through Breaks:
A study from the University of Illinois found that taking breaks during work can improve focus and performance.
Continuous work without breaks leads to fatigue, but taking short, deliberate breaks allows the brain to stay sharp and productive for longer periods.
Incorporating moments of stillness, reflection, and slower pace into life can enhance both your emotional and physical well-being.
Just like in Perlis, where life is naturally slower, taking time to reflect helps you regain perspective, focus on what’s important, and ultimately live a more fulfilling life.
So, next time you find yourself caught up in the rush, remember the value of slowing down.
Take a breath, reflect on where you are, and enjoy the beauty of the present moment. It’s in these quiet moments that you’ll find the clarity and peace needed to move forward.
