Every morning, as the first rays of sunlight begin to peek through my bedroom window, I embark on a simple yet profoundly impactful routine: I make my bed and open my curtains. These small acts set the tone for the rest of my day, echoing with the promise of order, simplicity, and positivity.
The Bed is Made: A Small Win
Making your bed might seem trivial, but it's a powerful starting point. According to Naval Adm. William McRaven, author of "Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life...and Maybe the World," starting the day with this small accomplishment fosters a sense of productivity and control. It's a simple ritual that can boost confidence and set a productive mood, setting a foundation for tackling larger tasks throughout the day. Mel Robbins also states in her book 'The 5 Second Rule" "if you struggle to stay motivated, wake up early and make your bed. Its a job done and a victory won".
Open Curtains: Embracing the Daylight
As I draw open the curtains, natural light floods the room, instantly lifting the atmosphere. Studies have shown that exposure to natural light is crucial for regulating the body’s circadian rhythm, improving mood, and boosting energy levels. A report published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine highlights the importance of daylight exposure in promoting better sleep patterns and mental health. Natural light is invigorating; it awakens the senses and breathes life into every corner of the room.
Let Fresh Air Flow: Inviting New Energy
During my cleaning routine, I often slide open the windows to welcome a fresh breeze. Fresh air is more than just a breath of nature; it’s a rejuvenating force. According to the American Lung Association, introducing fresh air into the home can reduce indoor air pollution, enhancing overall health. Not only does fresh air remove musty odors and impurities, but it also brings in positive energy, fostering a more vibrant, open-hearted environment.
The Psychological Shift: Order and Serenity
There's a psychological shift that occurs when we establish and maintain an organized living space. By making your bed and opening your curtains, you create a sense of order amid the potential chaos of daily life. Dr. Jordan Peterson, a clinical psychologist and author, often discusses the importance of tidying up your space as a method of cultivating discipline and mental clarity. An organized environment inspires organized thoughts, allowing for a more serene, productive mindset.
Conclusion: Embrace the Ritual
With each morning that you make your bed, draw open the curtains, and let in fresh air, you’re not just improving the aesthetic of your home—you're inviting peace, clarity, and new opportunities into your life. These actions are gateways to improved mental health, increased productivity, and enhanced well-being.
So tomorrow morning, try it for yourself. Feel the warmth of the sunlight, breathe in the fresh air, and know that in these small gestures, a day of boundless potential awaits.
Excellent points. I've learned (far too late in life) that experiencing direct sunlight as early as possible in the day is key to being able to fall asleep at night; it has something to do with regulating the body's/brain's way of recognizing day vs. night so it knows when to sleep. My father seemed to have polyphasic sleep disorder, falling asleep later and later to the point that he didn't go to bed until sometimes when my mom was just waking up, and the older I get, the later and later I fall asleep, sometimes just as the sun is coming up. (I actually sleep best when it's very sunny or completely dark; anything in the middle and I'm restless.)…
My bed is always made. I love that a person actually wrote a book about this. My grandmother would say, "make your bed, if the room is messy, it doesn't look as messy." lol - Thanks for sharing your habits.
I have a similar ritual, but I don't often open the windows. It's still freezing where I live, so that will have to wait. I do love the aroma of fresh air, so I will open up (at least for a bit) when I can. There is something about that smell of spring and growth particularly which fuels a positive mindset.
Making the bed makes you feel like a superhero. All day long when you walk past you glimpse a visual reminder that you can accomplish things!
Making my bed is a habit my mom instilled in me. I used to say she was the fastest bed-maker ever. It was almost like magic. She'd blink, and her bed was made. We used to talk about it, too. She would tell me how this simple act helped her feel like her day was off to a good start. And as I loved my mom and would often do many things she did, I followed her lead.
I love making my bed and opening the blinds each morning. It's part of my grounding ritual as I prepare for the day. And in addition, it feels wonderful to get back into bed at night when the sheets and blankets are…