Daily rituals are acts of self-love for me. Normalcy in times of chaos starts with the habits instilled in childhood–brush (and floss) your teeth, clean up your messes, and make your bed. My living spaces are my refuge and at this time I am making sure everything is spotless. There are no dishes in the sink. Dirty clothes are washed, folded and put away. I keep fragrant fresh flowers or green cuttings from my garden in vases in every room.
I practice basic principles of feng shui to de-clutter, generate energy flow and increase mindfulness. The satisfaction of having order brings me great joy, and now is the time to do everything possible to get more of it.
Self-care is essential to boost our bodies’ natural defenses. The Insight Timer Meditation App offers an endless variety of meditations, talks and music to get centered, grounded and deter restless sleep. The 7-minute Workout is a daily routine to I use to stay fit in cramped spaces without the need for workout equipment. And, I make sure to eat as much raw and unprocessed food as I can find.
In the time of coronavirus, I have started another daily ritual: contacting an old friend by voice or video call. The gratification is mutual and the sense of connection is priceless.