Early mornings set the stage for success. Even when my son was young, a low-stress morning routine helped us ease into a smooth and productive day. Now that we're all adults heading off in different directions, these simple habits keep us grounded.
Three simple things.
First, drink a glass of water. I won’t cite scientific journals, but that first glass helps wake up your digestive system and soothes a dry throat after a night's sleep.
Second, open the windows.
My grandma opened the windows on the hottest and coldest days of the year. She believed we needed fresh air, even if it was just for a few minutes. She always said that if you only open one window, make sure it’s in the bedroom --- and do it before making the bed. I still do this. I still follow her advice. It feels wonderful to stand by the window and feel the fresh air coming in, knowing the stale air from the previous day is on its way out.
The final task is to make the bed.
When my son was little and wanted to help me, I told him that the best way he could contribute was by making his own bed. He would lay his blanket flat on his toddler bed and carefully smooth it out. As he grew older, I showed him how to straighten the layers of the sheet and quilt. It wasn’t always perfect, but it always made his room look tidier.
Every morning, I pull back the sheets and blankets to let the bed breathe. About ten minutes later, I make the bed. Now, whenever I want to rest my eyes, lose myself in a good book, or play a brain game on my tablet, I find peace in my bedroom. Even if the rest of the house is a mess, I know my bed is a calm, tidy place to retreat to.
Three small tasks that will help start a good day.
There is one more thing I haven't listed as a task: give your family a good-morning hug, greet them with a smile, or send someone you love a cheerful good-morning text message.
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