Two exercises that have now become habits help me start my day on a positive note. When I wake up, I stay quiet for a minute before getting out of bed. I then do these two mental exercises or practices. They are not physically strenuous or time consuming.
The first practice is to think of three things that have happened in the past day, or will happen in the day to come, that I am thankful for. For me, these range from seeing an old friend to hearing that my granddaughter was born, and everyone is safe and healthy to international news about the safe return of hostages, or the successful restoration of wild elephants. Three things I am thankful for.
The second practice or exercise is to think of three things that I will do or participate in during this new day that are meaningful to me. Again, these do not need to be big deals. It could be going for a walk with a friend, attending a meeting on a subject I find important, a letter I plan to write, working in the garden, babysitting. Three things that I will do today that are meaningful to me.
Then I am up and out of bed. Mentally doing these exercises sets a feeling tone of quiet joy and optimism for the start of the day. I am thankful, aware and appreciative of the good things that have come my way. I’m ready to notice other positive events during the day. And I have identified things to look forward to. The whole day may not be a pleasant joy ride. It may be an arduous grind. But it will have bright spots no matter what. I feel open and ready to take part in the potential of a new day.
In the face of a troubled and turbulent world, these practices also help me to stay grounded in optimism and positive action. May they provide similar benefits for you.