There are certain anchors or routines in my daily life that I depend on in order to feel my best and function at my best energy. When one or more of these things is missing, my life that day does not work as well. There are certain things I do every few days or weekly, but the following four things are the things I do daily that add structure, meaning, and vitality to each day:
Daily walk. I consider myself lucky to have a dog because without her there’s no way I would get out to walk every day; I just wouldn’t do it. Every single morning without fail come rain or shine, I am out walking Jinx. We have a short route (20 minutes) and a longer route (30 minutes). Walking wakes me up and gives me energy. Walking also relaxes me. Some days I get two walks in, and those days are extra great.
Daily reading. I read for pleasure every single day for 15-45 minutes. I tend to read mostly non-fiction but am looking to expand my fiction repertoire. Whether it be a book related specifically to my practice as a therapist, self-help, biography, or fiction, it is always a book that I am excited about. My favorite ways to read books are in the morning in my peaceful office with a cup of coffee in hand, or sprawled on the couch under a blanket, my feet thrown over the edge, at the end of the day.
Daily coffee. I really enjoy a cup of hot coffee not only first thing in the morning but mid-afternoon as well. I take it with a teaspoon or two of whipping cream and sometimes a teaspoon of cocoa powder. My coffee is a comforting indulgence and hugely satisfies me on a psychological level! It represents comfort, warmth, energy, and rest; a weird combination, I know.
Daily getting ready. Whether it is a work day where I see clients, a work-from-home sewing day for Bamboletta, or the weekend, I always get dressed and wear some makeup. Doing this is not only an act of self-care for me but helps me feel productive, confident, energetic, and ready for anything.
When I miss one or two of my daily anchors, the day is “off”; something is not quite right. The above four things contribute to a day that puts me in the best position to feel engaged head-on with life, satisfied, productive, and, well, happy.
What are your daily anchors, and how do they contribute to your well-being?
Until next time,
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