How do you slow down?

We live in an up-and-at-'em, fast-paced society. Our culture, which is based upon a puritanical work ethic, frowns upon so-called down-time. These natural cyclical phases of introspection and re-evaluation are critical to maintaining balance and ultimately, happiness in life. As human beings, we need time to slow down, take stock and pause to determine where we really are versus where we need to be. When was the last time you allowed yourself to slow down and take a look at all of the elements in your life? How do you use down-time to achieve a greater sense of balance?