Morning Reflections

Did anyone else experience a breakdown during the spring of 2020? After two years, I finally feel like I am emerging from the haze of uncertainty that the pandemic brought. The challenges of teaching from home while caring for two young children were overwhelming. The subsequent year was filled with anxiety over potential illness and the thought of returning to remote teaching.

The year after that felt like a break, but ironically, it also brought frequent illnesses, including a bout with COVID-19. To cope, I turned to unhealthy habits: excessive drinking, binge-watching television, and indulging in comfort food. However, I've since made significant changes—though I might still sneak in an occasional show.

Amidst this chaos, I maintained a crucial self-care ritual that helped me wake up feeling motivated and ready to take on the day. I’m not referring to basic hygiene routines like brushing my teeth or showering, but rather the intentional mental practices that help us navigate life's challenges.

As the world evolved over the past two years, I held onto my morning ritual to preserve my sanity.

1. Early Rising

It may seem surprising, but I now wake up early. For most of my life, I would hit the snooze button repeatedly, barely making it out of bed until the last moment. Now, I set my alarm for 4:45 AM. While I still hit snooze, I don’t return to sleep.

2. Self-Love Affirmations

I start my day by affirming my worth. It’s vital to remind yourself, "I love you!" as Jen Sincero emphasizes in her work. Learning to embrace myself has transformed my mornings. When I express love to myself, I notice a positive shift in my mood. On tougher mornings, I rely on a stream of positive affirmations to boost my spirits.

3. Savoring Coffee

I take a moment to truly enjoy my morning coffee. My husband introduced this beautiful ritual by bringing me my cup each morning. This has evolved into a mindful practice where I focus on the warmth of the cup, the aroma of the coffee, and the sounds of the morning. It's my version of meditation.

4. Dedicated Writing Time

By around 5:30 AM, I dive into writing. Whether it’s a journal entry, a draft for an article, or reflections on my journey, I dedicate about 45 minutes to this creative outlet. It’s a time when inspiration flows, and I often find myself overflowing with ideas.

5. Listening to Podcasts

As I prepare for the day, I listen to motivational podcasts or audiobooks. This practice not only enriches my self-talk but also helps me process various perspectives, which keeps me inspired and engaged.

Navigating Uncertainty

The past couple of years have been tumultuous, filled with challenges like remote learning and financial uncertainty. As society begins to recover from the pandemic, we’re slowly finding our footing and establishing new routines.

However, life remains unpredictable. My father used to say, “the only constant is change.” Hence, nurturing our wellness routines is crucial. By focusing on what we can control and letting go of what we cannot, we find balance.

These morning rituals have become essential for me. Waking up positively sets a tone for the rest of the day. (And yes, I ironically sleep on the left side of the bed, but you get the idea!).

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Patty McMahon, M.Ed, is an educator, mother, wife, and dog lover who writes about sobriety and wellness in the modern world. To support her work and join her book club, consider subscribing to her newsletter for valuable wellness insights.

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