Life has a remarkable way of leading us down unexpected paths. Many years ago, I found myself navigating a journey that had dismantled my world. In the stillness of the night, I would be startled awake, choking, gasping for air, drowning in hopelessness. It was during these moments of darkness that I discovered a lifeline—a practice that would begin my healing journey. A new dawn awaits.
Finding Gratitude in the Midst of Desolation
In the midst of the wreckage, I clung to the lifeline that was my breath. With every inhale and exhale, I whispered a mantra of gratitude: “thank you, thank you, thank you for my breath, for keeping me here”. Amidst the ruins, I realized I had control over only a few things—my breath and the choice to make my bed each morning. These seemingly mundane acts provided an anchor of stability in the storm. I chose to walk hand in hand with my pain and my willingness to keep going. A radical acceptance of my resistance allowed me to experience the grace of what’s possible.
The Birth of Rituals and Routines
From the chaos of those times, I unearthed the profound wisdom that rituals and routines could serve as my compass, guiding me back to my own essence. The act of making my bed, a small gesture, carried a weight far greater than its appearance. It was a testament to my commitment to face another day, to navigate the chaos with a semblance of grace.
The Dance of Self-Care
Rituals and routines, I've come to understand, are the intimate dances we share with ourselves. They’re the steady rhythms that help us navigate life's symphony, even when the notes are dissonant. In the face of uncertainty, they provide a sense of familiarity—a way to recalibrate and ground ourselves.
Starting Where You Are
If the idea of establishing a routine feels daunting, take a breath. Begin by asking yourself, "What am I already doing for myself?" We often overlook the significance of our daily actions. Brushing our teeth, sipping morning tea, putting on fresh clothes—these are the threads that weave the fabric of our routines. Make these your non-negotiables! Vows to self. Start small, start there. And watch your capacity for more self-care to expand.
Redefining the Ordinary
Transform these actions into intentional rituals. Assign them names that resonate with your soul. By naming them, you infuse them with meaning, elevating the ordinary to the extraordinary. With each sip of tea or brush of your hair, you’re engaging in acts of self-care that nourish your spirit.
What else could you do?
Once you’ve admitted that you’re already doing and are willing to commit to these rituals, ask yourself, “what else do I want from my life? What can I do about it?” Little commitments, consistently, will bring great results. Just for today, I promise myself I will…” little secrets of love to self, how beautiful. Transformation is an inside job.
Closing Reflections
Life can cast us into storms that test our resilience. Yet, through the practice of rituals and routines, we can steady ourselves in the face of adversity. I urge you to think about what your morning routine is. Acknowledge what you already do. Inevitably, you will uncover the undying devotion your soul has to this lifetime. Keep going.
Write it down! Own it! Own your morning!
With warmth and light,
Caitlin Peterson, LCSW
PS- click here for the free download of the Soul School’s morning and evening ritual reflections pages.