Quiet start to the day~

 
One of my most favorite parts of the day at camp is my morning run around the lake. It’s a great start to clear the cobwebs, converse with a friend, and do something great for my body. The trifecta of spirit, body, and mind.

While running on the lake trail I’ve noticed that there are lots of likeminded parents having their own quiet start to the day. Many campers have attended Morning Watch which has quiet time, sharing, and learning. I’ve seen other parents walking around the lake or reading on the patio. Recognizing that some of these mothers and fathers have little ones that can’t be left alone, I knew that one spouse was at the cabin providing this coveted time to their partner. What a gift!

However you’ve started your day at camp, it can be difficult to carry this gentle entry into the busyness of work and school schedules outside of vacation. The fight with the alarm clock has lead me to turn back over and hit snooze a few times. But then the day never seemed to get going with the same gusto. It’s just a little off. Here are my favorite ways to bring that slow, silent start to the day home with me:

• Deep breathing outside while the sun rises and listening to the birds wake up (once a hummingbird came and nuzzled my shoulder)
• Reading in my oversized chair with two dogs that snuggle into my sides
• Journaling all the ways that I’m feeling grateful

Repeating a mantra while walking the dogs before anyone else is out and about is something new that I’m trying. Lately, I’ve felt the nudge to call on the Divine Mother to heal the earth. I’m open to learning what works for you and trying them out. Some go in the ‘meh, not me pile’ and others are incorporated into my morning practice.
​
How do you start your day? Please share a favorite practice in the comments.
​