These are from Ali’s 31 More Things class. More context here.
So here’s my day thirty – ritual.
(journaling below)
Journaling:
I believe in rituals. Routines. Schedules. I believe in repetitive structures that make it easier for me to do the things I know I want to do. I believe in acknowledging sacred moments of joy. I believe in taking moments to reflect, replenish, and rest.
Because I value these parts of my life so deeply, I make it a practice to create rituals that encourage me to incorporate them into my days in a recurring fashion. Here are some of the rituals I’ve had this year:
– During the first month of school, I woke David up at 5:45 each morning, so he could study for his exam while I sat in my meetings. Each morning, I would walk into his room, snuggle in his bed and hug him to wake him up. We would then walk downstairs hand in hand and he would grab the computer to study his words while I sat to review my email. He has since taken his exam so we no longer do this.
– Every weekend morning, I get dressed and walk to Cafe Borrone for some alone-time. I listen to my audiobook on the way there. When I arrive, I get a non-fat, no-foam, double-shot latte and a warmed up croissant. I like to pour my coffee into a small, ceramic cup and drink a bit at a time. I eat 1/3 of my croissant and take the rest of it to go. While there, I journal, sketch, or just listen to my book. Then I slowly walk back home.
– Every week, for the last few years, we’ve taken a family photo of all four of us. This used to be done weekly, no matter what. This year, we’ve lapsed quite a bit but I am working on re-establishing the practice.
– Every year, I set myself up with weekly art projects that allow me to practice or learn art that I would like to undertake. Lately, this process falls apart during the summer and I have a hard time resetting myself for the rest of the year. But I still love the projects.
– Each night, i grab some tea, a ‘smores bar, and my book and lie in bed for an hour as I listen to my audiobook. I try to sleep somewhere between 8:30-9:30.
These are just a small sample of rituals I’ve created for myself. Maybe they are routines or traditions. Regardless of the wording, I cherish every single one of them.
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