Slow Living At Home & Ideas for Cultivating More Peace Now

This morning I’m listing a bunch of random stuff for sale online that we’re not taking to the new house, and things are looking spare ’round these parts! Typically, I don’t start clearing away winter clutter til spring, but we’re down to a couple of weeks so it’s now minimal mode. Our interiors, bathed in cool clear February light have a monastic, quiet, ethereal mood ushering me into stillness even as I toil. Need permission to slow down? Let this be it as we consider aligning with nature and adopting its pace. Slow Living At Home & Ideas for Cultivating More Peace Now shares glimpses of the sacred right where I am.

Simple spare and natural dining room with farm table and 24" artificial agave potted succulent- Hello Lovely Studio.

Slow Living At Home & Ideas for Cultivating More Peace Now

Going to sleep at an earlier hour, carving out time for yoga and gentle stretching, baking bread, meditation, cozying down with a book on the weekend, and planning a relaxing vacation where ‘hustle’ is distant from the vocabulary?

Neutral decor and vintage style in our European country style entry with white oak hardwood flooring - Hello Lovely Studio. #europeancountry #entry #whiteoak #hardwoodflooring

These all appeal to me when I intentionally live slower.

Belgian style furniture in our European country living room with white oak hardwood floors - Hello Lovely Studio. #belgianstyle #europeancountry #livingroom
At Home: Slow Living as well as Ideas for Peace

By the way, these images of things looking spare are obviously not styled or zhushed.

(Let’s face it…you spy plenty of gorgeously composed vignettes and decorated interiors to inspire in my archives!)

All the Christmas-y things and winter “extras” are packed away, and I have to say it feels like sweet relief.

Simple spare and natural dining room with farm table and 24" artificial agave potted succulent- Hello Lovely Studio.
Find this beautiful succulent HERE.

Bare is much easier to live with, like my “only looks real” succulent in an awesome heavy pot.

Artificial agave succulent in earthenware pot with stones from Nearly Natural. #succulents #fauxplants #houseplants
24″ Agave Artificial Succulent in Pot
Antique Belgian sideboard and Belgian linen chaise in our living room - Hello Lovely Studio. #belgianstyle #sideboard #livingroom #interiordesign

Daring to Be Spare is Rare

BTW. You won’t find hashtags such as ‘living my BEST LIFE’ sprinkled into this post!

Hahaha. Life is in no way glamorous for me. Not now when I’m moving and not ever when I’m not.

I am the soul ever seeking to embrace reality, previve cancer and chronic illness, and grow in wisdom (which is quite different from growing an empire of influence).

Living room with Copenhagen egg chair (RH), staircase and catwalk - Hello Lovely Studio. #livingroom #belgianstyle

Ahhhhh, BEST LIFE.

‘Best’ implies I’ll be graded, compared, or judged. Since the first half of life brought plenty of assessment, no thank you.

Real life in the 2020s is demanding enough even without the masochism.

Belgian linen upholstered club chair (RH) in our living room with white oak hardwood flooring - Hello Lovely Studio. #belgianlinen #livingroom #interiordesign #neutraldecor
At Home: Slow Living as well as Ideas for Peace

Moving through modern life or living a good enough life may not have been sexy pre-pandemic, but we have now had time to consider their value.

White oak hardwood flooring and Belgian linen upholstered Copenhagen egg chair (RH) in our living room - Hello Lovely Studio. #eggchair #belgianlinen #belgianstyle #livingroom #whiteoak #hardwoodfloor

This quote continues to resonate right where i am:

Inspirational quote about life on Hello Lovely Studio from Donna Tartt. #inspirationalquote #lifequote #struggle #quotes

Ya know?

White oak hardwood flooring and Belgian linen upholstered Copenhagen egg chair (RH) in our living room - Hello Lovely Studio. #eggchair #belgianlinen #belgianstyle #livingroom #whiteoak #hardwoodfloor

Savoring the Sweet in the Slow

I have okay days and not so okay days, and I tell you what…

Neutral decor and vintage style in our European country style entry with white oak hardwood flooring - Hello Lovely Studio. #europeancountry #entry #whiteoak #hardwoodflooring

I appreciate the peaceful ones oh so much more now!

Belgian style egg chair and dining room in our renovated home - Hello Lovely Studio. #belgianstyle #europeancountry #diningroom #whiteoakhardwood

When my autoimmune issues are under control, and I can smile…oh, mercy.

Belgian linen slope arm chairs around round dining table in our home - Hello Lovely Studio. #diningroom #modernfarmhouse #belgianlinen #interiordesign

Simple life stuff such as the ability to do light housework, swim a a lap, play music on the piano, or bake something delicious are so lifegiving.

Belgian linen slope arm chairs around round dining table in our home - Hello Lovely Studio. #diningroom #modernfarmhouse #belgianlinen #interiordesign

I know you get it.

Belgian linen slope arm chairs around round dining table in our home - Hello Lovely Studio. #diningroom #modernfarmhouse #belgianlinen #interiordesign

When you live with chronic illness and easily grow weary, such simple things are cherished.

French doors from kitchen to dining room in our European country inspired home - Hello Lovely Studio.

Resistance to Share the Shadows

You already know I prefer NOT to push ‘publish’ on posts that mention the challenging parts of my health journey. I’d much rather keep the reality of life with illness under wraps.

Window seat with Belgian linen cushions in our kitchen - Hello Lovely Studio. #windowseat #belgianlinen #europeancountry #interiordesign

But I don’t ever want to leave the impression that one can’t live fully with poor health, imperfect relationships, and assorted wounds. The truth is, having life and having it to the full is about freedom and grace, not circumstances.

And racing through your one wild life is an option.

So is slowing down.

White roses in white terracotta urn on my white painted farm table in the kitchen - Hello Lovely Studio.

Slow Living Tips from an Expert

Here’s a great place to start if you too desire a slower pace.

Moving Forward Slowly & Imperfectly

Since I can blog from anywhere, I’m fortunate to travel when I have the strength.

Wing of airplane in blue sky - Hello Lovely Studio.

I hope to head to warmer temperatures soon for liberal doses of fresh air and beautiful scenery.

Clouds, blue sky, and ice from airplane - Hello Lovely Studio.

Soaring above the clouds is not as agreeable for me as road tripping.

Clouds, blue sky, and ice from airplane - Hello Lovely Studio.

I’m ever grateful to have a travel companion on the journey who cares for me in a way that confirms I am quite enough.

Clouds, blue sky, and ice from airplane - Hello Lovely Studio.

Often weak, often muddling through, yet always enough!

And so are you.

Encouraging inspirational quote by Maya Angelou on Hello Lovely Studio. #quotes #inspirationalquote #encouragementquote #mayaangelou

Words of Affirmation for You

I’m raising a half-FULL glass of Rosé champagne to you (fill it up if you wish…I can only sip a wee bit these days!) with this whole-hearted toast:

Veuve Cliquot rose on my birthday - Hello Lovely Studio.

HERE’S TO LIFE LIVED SIMPLY yet FULLY AS THE GIFT it ever is…where LOVE is always the point.

Belgian linen club chair in our living room with winter trees visible outside window. Hello Lovely Studio. Come visit 10 Smart Peaceful Ideas & Gifts to Give or Receive.

What Keeps Us From Slower, More Peaceful Living?

Resistance and FOMO is everywhere in the culture. But there isn’t just one way to slow down. I’m more of a JOMO girl these days.

And there are multiple paths toward peace when you decide to say YES to its invitation.

Neutral decor and vintage style in our European country style entry with white oak hardwood flooring - Hello Lovely Studio. #europeancountry #entry #whiteoak #hardwoodflooring

Lord knows I have tried multiple paths over the years journeying through doubt, darkness, and despair.

Inspirational quote by Mary Oliver on Hello Lovely Studio

The thing is, when trouble comes, my pursuit of light is sometimes a desperate, feverish one.

Icicles on the trees in our winter garden. Hello Lovely Studio. Come visit: 10 Smart Peaceful Ideas & Gifts to Give or Receive.
I snapped this last year, and it accompanied a vulnerable post RIGHT HERE acknowledging the tender whisper of trees in my winter garden.

If only I could see during the trials that desperation is a sign that inner peace is on the way (if only because it signals the end of my personal resources).

Inspirational quote on Hello Lovely Studio. #hellolovelystudio #quotes #inspirationalquote #chekhov

I don’t know much of anything about the mechanics of desperation, surrender, and peace, but I do know I cannot magically summon light in my heart.

Rather, the light seems always to be waiting for me to soften and become permeable to it.

Inspirational words of peace from Hello Lovely Studio. #inspirationalquote #selfcare #lifequotes #zenquotes #quotes #hellolovelystudio

Love’s healing radiance waits within the stillness for my surrender, for my wordless consent.

Inspirational quote, funny quote, and humor on Hello Lovely Studio. #quotes

10 Smart Ideas for More Peace

A peace pilgrimage Pinterest infographic? One that hardly rings very spiritual and fails to mention meditation?

Who does that?

An imperfect blogger, that’s who. I know it is incomplete and maybe insufficient, but could it be a start?

If we all PIN it, do you suppose ripples could start rippling in near and faraway places?

10 Smart Ideas for More Peace. Come explore this story with 10 Smart Peaceful Ideas & Gifts to Give or Receive on Hello Lovely Studio.
Pin this to save for later!

(I can hear a protest forming…but the list doesn’t mention the peace animals bring!)

Oh, yes, I hear you.

Heartwarming quote about dogs. #hellolovelystudio #dogquote #quotes #dogs

The list is incomplete for sure. While I believe in the power of prayer and have spiritual rhythms such as meditation built into my day, embodied gestures are important.

Inspirational quote about darkness and light from Martin Luther King Jr on Hello Lovely Studio. #inspirationalquote #quotes #MLK

Embodied gestures are certainly not inferior gestures.

Inspirational quote from Dolly Parton about life on Hello Lovely Studio. #inspirationalquote #lifequote #lovequote #dollyparton #quotes

Mind Body Spirit Matters

After years of rejecting the body* (and accepting poor theology), it has been necessary to relearn what a precious and sacred part of wholeness it truly is.

*Unfortunately, a chronic illness can make it difficult to trust the body and enjoy simple pleasures such as eating.

Inspirational quote about gratitude and happiness on Hello Lovely Studio. #happinessquote #inspirationalquote #quotes #gratitude

You already know the strength when there is harmony of body-mind-spirit.

Inspirational love quote and scripture from Corinthians 13 on Hello Lovely Studio. #inspirationalquote #scripture #lovequote #corinthians13 #christianity #faithquote

BTW. Number 8 is decidedly not ’embodied,’ but it is so important to let go of shame and forgive yourself in order to welcome more peace.

Inspirational quote on Hello Lovely Studio
Hello Lovely Studio

Our bodies hold on to shame, pain, and regret, but we can show them the door!

You could pair #8 with number 4 and write post-it notes to yourself (i.e. IT’S A NEW DAY – YOU ARE FORGIVEN FOR WHAT YOU DIDN’T KNOW YESTERDAY!)

Classic white Shaker kitchen with 30" Reinhard fireclay farm sink - Hello Lovely Studio. #farmsink #classickitchen #kitchendesign #fireclaysink

One more thing regarding #10 (invest in relationships)…if you truly want to love another purely, keep this in mind:

Barbara Brown Taylor inspirational quote on Hello Lovely Studio about loving the neighbor. #inspirationalquotes #barbarabrowntaylor #spiritualquote #faithquote #lovequote

Thanks for listening. If your own journey involves a faster pace and #livingmybestlife hashies, I also honor you.

After all, our diversity and differences make us beautiful teachers for each other!

It is always a joy to hear from you and to find out where in the world you are reading this from…if you have a moment, do leave a comment. 🙂

I independently selected products in this post—if you buy from one of my links, I may earn a commission.

Peace to you right where you are.

-michele

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34 Comments

  1. Marilyn S.
    February 11, 2020 / 4:56 am

    M.

    Thanks for your transparency – not very common in the ol’ blog world.
    This scripture came to mind as I read this post.

    I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made Psalm 139:14

    Lifting you up today – Gods power is made perfect in our weakness.

    Marilyn

    • Michele
      Author
      February 11, 2020 / 8:27 am

      Thank you for bringing me the Word and for this timeless reminder. What would I do without the Psalms – the sweetest comfort I know. xox

  2. Lori
    February 11, 2020 / 8:56 am

    Your post touched me, but not “for” me… Rather for YOU! I am moved by the Lord with great compassion to intercede on your behalf. What a lovely woman you are from the inside out. May His peace cover you and comfort you and may you feel His presence. He is holding you in the palm of His great hand. Onward! Psalm 91.
    Lori

    • Michele
      Author
      February 11, 2020 / 4:16 pm

      Powerful healing words of love, Lori. Thank you. Thank you for the Psalm – and the image which brings such comfort. You’ve blessed me.

  3. Amy
    February 11, 2020 / 9:22 am

    THIS is why I love your blog so much!! Girls living a ‘good enough’ life unite!! 😁I appreciate your honesty/authenticity…so refreshing & I relate on so many levels. I don’t battle w/chronic illness, at least yet (though I dealt with DCIS stage O two yrs ago & sprained my ankle last week), but my husband does. His diabetes, which totally makes it difficult to trust his body & enjoy the simple pleasure of eating, is something he must contend with everyday at every meal. As you know too well, it’S SUCH a challenge that can wear you down esp’lly when things get even more out of whack than normal at certain times (which is the case right now for him🙏🏼). He’s always pointed our fam towards the simple life…there’s truly enough chaos as is without self inflicting more as you said! I love your sparse yet lovely/calming decor and it’s what I’m going for in our new home…I guess that explains why I’ve yet to hang one single thing on the wall so far or put together more than a couple small vignettes! 😁I’m definitely going to be VERY selective because, especially at mid-life, less is truly more! Plus I’m getting rid of as much ‘crap’ as I can now as we move in to save our 5 kids from having to deal with that down the road & it feels SO GOOD! Thanks again for sharing your wisdom from the heart ❤️.

    • Michele
      Author
      February 11, 2020 / 4:15 pm

      I love hearing more about your story and life, Amy. Thanks for supporting me for sharing mine. Two straight days of feeling pretty dang human for me! I could get used to this!!!! It’s why I’ll never get too proud to ask for prayer – I truly depend on God’s grace and the prayers of his kids to manage the assorted issues that are my reality. Being joined in them helps so much. It’s so much easier to live with less at this age – easier to clean, easier to stay focused on the present…My very minimal sister has this thing where she looks at one of her rooms and thinks, “how fast could I pack this baby up?” and that comforts her. Great point about making it easy on our kids who inherit all our junk! Thanks for reading, friend. Sending peace. xox

  4. Mary K.
    February 11, 2020 / 10:11 am

    Michelle
    Your writings today really touched my soul. I have had double total knee replacements this winter. I , too, have multiple immune system issues. The trauma of the surgery has sent my entire being into a state of total disarray. As if the main event( double knee surgery) wasn’t enough, dealing with the pain in multiple body parts, jacked up gut, and more/ it is an act of strength and courage just to arise from bed and try to be functional . Your thoughts and words are very inspirational and give validation to living a slow and determined life as best as one can , given each person’s particular circumstances.
    Thanks and God bless you you❤️

    • Michele
      Author
      February 11, 2020 / 4:02 pm

      Thank you for sharing part of your story here, Mary. I know a little about one knee replacement with my mama, but the double must bring on incredible levels of pain. I’m thinking of you. I helped my mom recover, and I’m aware of all of those side effects from meds and anesthesia which linger. Not for the faint of heart. It’s going to get better, friend. This is going to pass. If I could hold your hand, look you in the eye, and say the words with conviction, I would. You are healing, and I am sending more light across the fiber optics and more prayer to hold you as you strengthen. xox

  5. Jayne Finkbohner
    February 11, 2020 / 10:12 am

    Wow, such total honesty and putting your whole self out there. Your post reminds me embrace each day and each person who passes our way. It also reminds me to never stop praying or believing that God is right there with you and all of us each step if the way. You passed along so many beautiful nuggets of truth and the most important one is to savor my family and sweet friends who are precious gifts and quiet myself and reflect on God’s glory. Your beautiful home looks like a sweet retreat. You are in my prayers.
    When my heart is faint lead me to the Rock that is higher than I ❣ Psalm 61:2
    You are in my prayers!

    • Michele
      Author
      February 11, 2020 / 3:58 pm

      Ahhhh, thank you for this Psalm, Jayne. What a comfort it truly is – lead me to the Rock (with a capital R, mama!). I’m so blessed to have support and appreciate your prayers so much. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

  6. Mary Wilder
    February 11, 2020 / 11:00 am

    This was a lovely post, Michelle. You’re home is so peaceful. The reminder to slow down was perfect for me today. I’m sending healing thoughts and prayers your way.
    Much love to you,
    Mary

    • Michele
      Author
      February 11, 2020 / 3:57 pm

      Thank you for the kind thoughts and love, Mary. Peace to you right where you are.

  7. February 11, 2020 / 4:07 pm

    I like number 9 about swallowing frogs. I am going to do that. Also, love the big white vase your white Roses are in on the table. Hugs.

    • Michele
      Author
      February 11, 2020 / 4:20 pm

      Hi Colleen! #9 is a good one, isn’t it? When I can tolerate it, I like rewarding myself with chocolate after swallowing the frogs. A chocolate chaser, if you will. Hahahaha. That big white terracotta vase was found in Franklin, TN, where we vacationed last summer. Hugs right back, friend. xox

  8. Angie Runyan
    February 13, 2020 / 3:05 pm

    So lovely! The photos, the thoughts, the words. Thanks.

    • Michele
      Author
      February 13, 2020 / 4:25 pm

      Thank you for reading, Angie! I’ll be over to your blog in a jiffy. 🙂

  9. February 17, 2020 / 10:21 am

    Yes, I get it!

    Absolutely beautiful and so needed for me today as I have been in bed for 4 days with flare up/flu/food reactions? Not sure what is exactly going on but this is the first time I have felt really awful since returning to teaching in late November. I even made it through the stress of the holidays and thougth it was going to be smooth sailing.
    I am trying so hard to fight fear over chronic illness relapse, no…I am going to rebuke fear!

    Thank you for sharing this beautiful post!

    • Michele
      Author
      February 17, 2020 / 10:34 am

      Praying for you this moment, Amber. You’ll be feeling more balanced in no time, and this will pass. Thank you for these words of kindness. Yours is such a beautiful soul, and what a blessing that the wisdom and love there overflows and reaches corners like this one. Peace to you, friend. xox

  10. February 20, 2020 / 8:45 am

    Michele,
    OH sweet lady I so love reading your posts. You remind us all that we all are dealing with something. I hope that you enjoy your time away and the warmth that it will bring. We need to enjoy each day. As always your home is so lovely ans serene. Congratulations, you are being featured on Thursday Favorite Things. I hope you stop by.

    Hugs,
    Bev

    • Michele
      Author
      February 20, 2020 / 6:43 pm

      Thank you, Bev. Hoping to have time to link up to this week’s party as there is always fresh inspiration to discover. Peace to you, friend.

  11. Denise/My Home of All Seasons
    March 18, 2021 / 9:45 am

    Thank you for sharing this post Michele! It is so beautifully written and thought provoking. I came over from Theresa’s feature on TFT and now have been here all morning! I loved your desert pictures by the way. I lived in Arizona for quite awhile and still have family there. So many overlook the beauty of the desert. So many overlook the beauty of each day for that matter. Sometimes we need a push from someone who knows how precious each one is to open our eyes and see the beauty. That is what you’ve done for me today so thank you so much! You are in my prayers and I hope the peace that you’ve created continues to surround you.

    • Michele
      Author
      March 18, 2021 / 11:21 am

      Oh, Denise, thank YOU for adding to the beauty here – I’m so happy to have you visit and look forward to discovering your beautiful blog. It took me some time to appreciate the splendor of the desert. As an overly sensitive artist type of person, the landscape can be overwhelming to the senses. But I have come to love it as much as the lush forests and meditative seashores. I’m not especially wise, but I am trying to be more present in each day’s beauty because there is just so much to savor. xox

  12. carole
    February 7, 2022 / 12:36 pm

    Michelle, we are all worthy, having been created in the image of God. And it dosn’t matter what anyone else says, good or bad, including ourselves. True peace can only come from God. All we have to do is decide who we want to listen to and who we choose to follow. God knows us the best and loves us the most. So we need not seek novelty and fall down the rabbit hole of chaos. There have always been clanging and whispering voices, that try to entice us and pull us in their directions. But as you said, the important thing is to simplify… Listen to the one who is in control and only those those who repeat His message. Be at peace, sweet Michelle, as you make your move.

    • Michele
      Author
      February 7, 2022 / 5:02 pm

      Thank you for the blessing and testimony. May any peace that comes to me also pass through me to others. 🙂

  13. deborah
    February 8, 2022 / 9:09 am

    Such beautiful living and thoughts in every way! Thank you! Your light shines so bright.

    • Michele
      Author
      February 8, 2022 / 4:41 pm

      Thanks so much for reading and the kindness – always hoping the light can somehow finds its way to shadowy places and keep going. 🙂

  14. Robin
    February 8, 2022 / 10:11 am

    What a beautiful way to begin my day by reading your comforting words. We all need all need rest and peace, especially in today’s world. How I appreciate your writings and images. Thank you! On a decor note, I have been wanting to ask you about the paintings in your home. They are so beautiful! Did you paint them?
    Wishing you a wonderful peaceful day!

    • Michele
      Author
      February 8, 2022 / 4:39 pm

      I painted some of them – the abstracts in our kitchen and living room are by me. I need to devote a post to my paintings soon. 🙂 The seascape and abstract landscape in the hall are by Melissa James.

  15. Chris Godfrey
    February 8, 2022 / 12:47 pm

    Thanks for sharing your story. It is very similar to mine. Peace and comfort to you.

    • Michele
      Author
      February 8, 2022 / 4:37 pm

      Thanks so much – it is comforting to feel joined on the journey.

  16. lee
    February 8, 2022 / 9:44 pm

    Thank You, that is all I can say. You are so inspiring and help me to remember how important gratitude is. No matter what. To go through adversity and grow through it. Reminds me of an excellent book called Wake Up Grateful by Kristi Nelson. I strive for peaceful living, but am pulled in many directions and restlessness and resistance as well as FOMO interfere. I love JOMO, never heard that on before, but just reading your words makes me feel such a sense of peace. You have really got it together lady! Thank you for sharing and Gods Blessings, I will keep you in my prayers.

    • Michele
      Author
      February 9, 2022 / 5:36 pm

      What a blessing. Right where you are. Passing on your positive energy and kindness. I wouldn’t characterize myself as having it together (too much pressure to keep that going!), but muddling through and starting each new day as a new creature? YES. 🙂 Thank you so much for reading me with tenderness.

  17. February 13, 2022 / 6:44 pm

    Michele,
    I hope your move goes well. It is always difficult to move. We move a couple of years ago now and I said no more. lol! it is exhausting. I know it must wear you out. Take time to refresh and relax.
    Have a Happy Valentine’s Day sweet friend.
    Hugs,
    Bev

    • Michele
      Author
      February 13, 2022 / 10:01 pm

      Thanks so much, Bev. Another tiring weekend with move stuff has me worn out. There never seems to be enough time to clear the decks! Happy new week to you.

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French Farmhouse Dining Table
Bar Stool
Beachy White Slipcovered Sofa
Rattan Armchair
Diptyque Oyedo Candle
Cross Back Dining Chair
French Country Candle Holder
French Industrial Metal Chairs (4)
Designer Favorite Wall Mirror
Holborn Lantern Pendant
French Country 6-Light Chandelier
Tray Side Table
French Country Upholstered Arm Chair
Wicker Trunk Set
French Ticking Stripe Pillow
Jute Area Rug
Mohair Throw
Rustic Industrial Farmhouse Shelves
Belgian Linen Sofa
White Duvet & Bedding
Rustic Wood Candlestick Set
French Market Basket
Linen Modern Wing Chair
French Country Farmhouse Baskets
Concrete Pillar Table Lamp
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Style Lamp
Kendall Skirted Dining Chair
White Charleston Sofa
Scrubbed Wood 5-Light Chandelier
Arched Champagne Wall Mirror
Moravian Star 1-Light Pendant
Highback Armchair
Mini Pendant Light
White Vase Set
Round Woven Placemat Set
Cashmere Throw With Fringe
Wreath Doormat
Fireclay Farm Sink (Reinhard, 30″)
White Waffle Coverlet
Light Grey Vienna Quilt
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Linen Duvet Set
Round Marble Side Table
Rustic Pedestal Farm Table
Rattan Hanging Chair Swing