Trying to live slowly in major cities like CDMX, aka Mexico City, is a challenge but not impossible
As someone who currently lives in one of the most chaotic yet beautiful cities I’ve known, I’m aware of how easy it is to sometimes just let yourself drown in the demanding hustle culture this city supports itself in.
So now, instead of living, you’re surviving. Trust me, I’ve been there and pulling myself up has not been easy but here I am, creating spaces that feel intentional when I’m home and also when I’m out in the wild.
Where to slow down in CDMX…
I feel that after the pandemic, people have been looking for places to just exist and take a break, and honestly, the city has delivered. Finding places out of curiosity and discovering the potential they have to turn into a retreating place is my passion. So here are five places that allow you to slow down while the city keeps itself busy.
Biblioteca Nacional de Antropología e Historia:
This one was a massive surprise for me, as I didn’t know it existed until two years ago.
This library is located inside the Anthropology Museum of Mexico and it is the perfect place if you want a quiet place to work or just browse around their collection, which includes codices, manuscripts, 19th-century newspapers, religious books, maps, architectural plans, and testimonies from people who survived the 1910 revolution.
Audiorama Parque España:
A true oasis in the middle of the chaos.
The “audioramas” are spaces designated to just rest and relax for as long as you want. What I love about this is that you can find chairs, hammocks, and relaxing music that really set the tone for your stay.
There are three locations around the city where you can find one of these spaces: Parque España, Bosque de Chapultepec and Parque Hundido.
This place is ideal for a reading or journaling session. Also, from time to time you will find people napping. Just one thing: once you are inside the audiorama you cannot eat, drink, talk on the phone, or bring your pet and leave litter.
A place to just exist and heal for an hour. Yes, it does come with a limited time since it is a holistic studio, but you will walk out feeling balanced and refreshed.
Besides having several practices like sound healing, breathwork, meditation, yoga and Pilates, the classrooms are designed for you to just immerse in the experience.
Museo Nacional de Arte (MUNAL):
My favorite museum in the city! This place not only offers art and seasonal exhibitions but also the place itself allows you to go back in time and just enjoy your own company.
What I like the most is the architecture itself; it is there for you to admire for hours while remaining quiet as life happens outside. In my opinion, it is one of those spots in the city that is there for you to enjoy alone that doesn’t demand any productivity from you.
Now, this might be the most IG aesthetic place on this list. This coffee shop is right in the Roma Nte. neighborhood and it carries a lot of history with it.
This house belonged to Margarita Quijano, a Mexican writer, cultural advocate, teacher, and a central figure in Mexico City’s intellectual circles.
And now, years later, the doors open once again as a boutique hotel/specialty coffee shop. Great place to work from, read a book or just spend the time mesmerized by the architecture surrounding the house.
And there you have it.
These are five places in CDMX that invite you to slow down while the world outside its walls keeps happening. And, to be honest, I’ve decided to make these spaces my little retreat; maybe if you go there, you won’t feel the same, but you might find it in a different museum, library, or coffee shop.
Remember, I’m showing you what connects with me, hoping that you will find comfort too.
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