In our fast-paced digital world, it can be difficult or even sometimes counter-intuitive to think about slow living. We want to keep pace with everything and stay ahead. But how do we balance this with our desire to be at peace with ourselves and our lives? In this episode, Aileen and Paola talk about the importance of slowing down, being aware of how you perceive yourself, and how you can create your inner peace on your own terms.  Paola Merrill is a Puerto Rican American writer, artist, and the creator of the youtube channel TheCottageFairy. She creates meditative short films focused on slow living and bringing awareness to the beauty of wild lands. TIMESTAMPS: 1:50 Growing up and what led to slow living 12:18 How Paola’s Youtube channel The Cottage Fairy grew 15:31 How Paola’s love of fairytales influenced her art and life 19:50 Changing location can help change your mindset 22:32 Being aware of how you perceive yourself 24:14 Paola’s dream life growing up 27:08 Being your own safe space 31:03 The invisible journey to find your courage 35:10 The story of when Paola worked at a bookstore 36:03 How Paola’s book was written 40:55 The importance of taking care of yourself and slowing down  44:23 Being peaceful and mindful as a business owner and content creator SPONSORS: BetterHelp Get 10% off your first month: https://www.betterhelp.com/tll Mosh Save 20% off + free shipping on your first 6-count trial pack: http://www.moshlife.com/tll Follow Paola: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/The_Cottage_Fairy/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKx5lHJ6Fr5mbT4TYVLh6ng The video version of this interview is available on YouTube: Episode 239 SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAVENDAIRE LIFESTYLE PODCAST: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube LAVENDAIRE: YouTube Instagram