Wander & Wonder

I recently noticed that almost every day, no matter how busy, I do the same three simple things that help bring a bit of calm and joy into my day:

1. Make a Cozy Ritual Out of My Morning Coffee

I used to just make a quick drip coffee before heading out the door to catch the bus. I realized that making a cozy ritual out of my daily cup of coffee is a really amazing way to start off my day. It’s not just about the coffee itself; it’s about enjoying the experience. I start by picking out my favorite mug (which fluctuates daily) and brew myself a fresh batch of coffee. I recently bought a coffee grinder and I don’t think any smell can top the aroma of freshly-ground coffee beans. As the coffee brews, I sometimes write down some goals for the day or simply look outside at anything that catches my eye (sometimes it’s the raindrops on the window, other times the birds in the trees, and hopefully the sunlight shining on my backyard). When the coffee is ready, I foam up my milk and try to make “latte art” (which currently looks like a big white blob). I like to wrap myself in a blanket and enjoy each sip. I know it may sound cheesy, but I really feel a sense of peace and readiness for the day when I take the time to appreciate my coffee routine.

2. Journal

Journaling has become an important part of my daily routine. I used to write a lot as a teenager but had stopped for a while. The other day while I was looking for something in my nightstand drawer, I came across my last journal and remembered how much it helped me to put my thoughts down on paper. It’s my time to reflect, vent, dream, and document life’s little moments. I usually set aside some quiet time in the afternoon or evening to sit down with my journal. Whether I’m jotting down a quick note about something that made me smile, exploring one of my many “what ifs”, or planning future tasks, journaling helps me to clear my mind. Plus, it’s always fun to look back on old entries and see how I’ve grown or changed.

3. End My Day with a Night Prayer

No matter how busy or chaotic the day has been, Tony and I always try to end it with a nighttime prayer. This ritual helps us to express gratitude, think about our successes and challenges throughout the day, and ask for forgiveness. And don’t worry, if you are not religious, you can still practice this exercise by simply reflecting on your day. As someone who often takes a long time to fall asleep, I find that this routine is a great way to wind down for bed.

Incorporating these three simple practices into my daily routine brings a sense of tranquility and joy, making each day a little brighter. What are some of the rituals that bring peace and happiness to your life?