GO WITH THE SLOW

(Unkown, flow magazine)

Slowing down in the midst of daily chaos can feel almost revolutionary. Yet, slow living isn’t about abandoning everything to pursue a self-sustaining life; rather, it’s about rethinking our own pace, choices, and daily habits. For Gerda, this mindset is not only a cornerstone of her lifestyle but also the foundation of her clothing brand, Magnesium. But where did this journey begin, and how did slow living become an essential part of the brand?

The philosophy of mindfulness and slow living started to shape Gerda’s everyday life during the COVID pandemic, when she suddenly found herself confined to a single space. To make time for everyday activities, she began structuring her days around her own rhythm rather than external expectations. This shift extended to her meals as well, with more and more locally produced ingredients appearing on her table.

RHYTHM

JOURNEY

PURPOSE

CONNECTION

Pillars of magnesium

Slow fashion,handled differently

Just as slow living encourages a more intentional approach to daily life, Magnesium garments embody this philosophy. While slow fashion is often associated with a clean, minimalist aesthetic, Gerda sees sustainability differently. For her, it’s not about simplicity—patterns, colors, and playfulness are just as essential as material choices and ethical production.

“As much as sustainability is about responsible material selection and mindful manufacturing, it’s also about creative expression,” Gerda explains. “Vibrant patterns and a rich color palette are just as essential in Magnesium pieces.”

She continues, “I also believe that true mindfulness isn’t achieved only by retreating to a remote place and striving for complete self-sufficiency. The philosophy of slow living can be embraced just as well in an urban environment. Consciousness and sustainability can seamlessly integrate into city life—that’s the message I hope to convey through Magnesium clothing.“

systematic slowness

For Gerda, organization is more than just a habit—it’s a superpower, the foundation of mindful living. Shopping lists, weekly menus, and daily to-do lists form a clear, structured system that keeps her grounded. “This way, my thoughts don’t get tangled—I know exactly what I’m making time for and when. So, when I’m designing or drawing, I can fully immerse myself in the process, knowing everything else is in place,” she explains. Paradoxically, organizing doesn’t restrict her; instead, it grants her freedom. “Organization equals equilibrium,” she says.

This mindful approach extends beyond her personal life to the way she runs her brand. Even when planning a capsule collection, structure is essential. Every decision is intentional—how much fabric will be needed? What materials should be sourced? How many pieces should be produced to avoid excess stock? Yet, for Gerda, creativity isn’t a linear process. She takes notes, observes her surroundings, and records small details in her notebook. “When I’m designing, I have all this information in front of me, allowing me to think more creatively and build on each idea,” she shares.

Gerda's Slow Tips: Small Steps Toward a More Balanced Life

Slow living is a continuous learning process—it’s not about getting everything right from the start. The key is to stay open-minded and embrace change gradually. Here are some of Gerda’s favorite tips for cultivating a more mindful and balanced daily life: