Begin the day, gently

I love quiet, slow, and relaxing early mornings, when most are asleep and the world is calm. The sounds of birds chirping, cars driving by, ambulance noises in the far distance, etc. but otherwise silent enough that you can hear a pin drop. Sometimes, it’s so quiet that you can hear yourself think. It’s my favorite part of the day.

Mornings are typically when I’m most creative and focused, when the noise of the world hasn’t barged into my brain yet. For that reason, my most important and grounding tasks get done during this time. For about 1-1.5 hours after waking up, I engage in a series of activities that make up my current morning routine. I start the day spiritually grounded through prayer, a non-negotiable for me. Afterwards, I proceed to read a few pages of the Quran, fill out my gratitude journal, plan for the day, and write freely. These are activities that require a little more thought and attention but keep me relaxed.

But there are also small relaxing activities that are done more mindlessly (i.e. puttering). Tidying up, putting dishes away, watering plants, rearranging things, folding and putting away clothes, etc. Have you ever noticed that these activities don’t really require thought but yet you feel productive afterwards? You get stuff done and feel a sense of accomplishment without being overly stressed. If you visit my place, my apartment is clean and organized 99.9% of the time, partly because I’m type A and a neat freak, but also partly because I continually putter around, especially in the slow mornings.

Mornings are for relaxation…but productive relaxation. Starting the day with minimal stress, doing what makes me grounded and happy, and doing mindless but productive activities is my fool proof way to not start the day with anxiety and franticness. I can have my “me time” before I get inundated with tasks for the day. I can think clearly without being rushed. My nervous system is regulated. I’m relaxed. I’m calm. I’m productive.

So, this is a reminder that if you have the ability (which you most likely do if you prioritize your time), just slow down a little in the mornings, even if it’s for 15 minutes. Find what grounds you and calms you and start your day with that. Begin your day, gently.