5 Daily Disciplines: Reflect. Revitalize. Restore. Relax. Retreat.

1. Be still in the morning with a cup of coffee.

2. Read.

3. Take a bath.

4. Surround myself in nature.

5. Listen to classical music.  

These are 5 things that I aspire to do daily, offering myself a chance to recharge and reconnect with the beauty and gift that each day brings. Sometimes, I’m only fortunate enough to connect with one of them, but on a perfect day, it’s all five.

1. Be still in the morning. Slowly arise and have a cup of coffee. 

This invites me into the simple pleasures of the day. The sun is slowly coming up and I meander downstairs and pour my cup of coffee. Extremely hot and topped with a flavored creamer and some cinnamon, this bit of time for reflection opens a door to starting the day in peace.

2. Listen to classical music.

As I move on toward my workday, I plug in classical music to my sound system and fill the house with music that stimulates and awakens my mind. Classical music is scientifically known to be extremely effective for the brain. I find that when it is on, I am less distracted and more focused on the tasks that are at hand. In many ways, it revitalizes my inner being.

3. Surround myself in nature.

About mid-day, I like to take my dogs for a walk or engage in physical activity. The key, though, is that I like to be outside. Whether it is in the blazing hot and humid temperatures of the summer, or the bitter cold winter snowy days, I prefer to take in nature daily. Seeing an egret fly across the pond or listening to the sounds of the crickets in the early evening engages my spirit. These small and brief moments encourage me to pause and look around appreciating every second that life has to offer. I find myself then restored.

4. Take a bath.

Towards the end of the day (preferably before dinner), I slow down and take a bath. I often light candles and set the room to soft playing music. I succumb to the day as I fully saturate in the steamy hot water, I’ve offered myself. Bathing, as history portrays, is not only a necessity, but a true luxury. It’s imperative for me to have this simple luxury as it gives my body permission to wind down and relax.

5. Read

Finally, to close my day, I read. Oftentimes, it is literature that is a different subject from my day-to-day work. Reading gives me the opportunity to unwind, while engaging my brain for the finale of the day. A true retreat starts in the mind and heart. Literature offers this. And so, I engage.

How do you daily reflect, revitalize, restore, relax, and retreat? What are ways that you can practice these yearned for activities frequently? Lastly, what is your dream spot to give yourself the freedom to retreat in mind, body, and spirit?