6:30 AM: Waking Up with the Dawn
This morning, I wake up slowly. Last night’s sleep was patchy—one of those nights where I woke up in a sweat, the sheets slightly damp and my mind racing. My joints feel stiff, a dull reminder of the shifts my body is going through.
What I Do:
I start by taking a deep breath, feeling the air fill my belly, and exhaling all the heaviness of the night. It’s my grounding moment, my way of saying, “Okay, body, let’s do this.” I reach for a glass of warm water with a squeeze of lemon, letting the warmth soothe my stomach.
On the mat, I ease into a few stretches—child’s pose, cat-cow, and a gentle downward dog. It’s not about perfection; it’s about movement, about shaking off the stiffness and giving myself permission to start the day. I set a quiet intention: Patience. Gentleness.
9:00 AM: Mid-Morning Hustle
I feel the fog creeping in as I start my work—brain fog, my uninvited guest these days. I know pushing through will only make me more irritable, so I take a beat.
What I Do:
Breakfast is non-negotiable. Today, I whip up a smoothie: almond milk, spinach, a spoonful of almond butter, frozen blueberries, and a scoop of flaxseeds. I sip it slowly, feeling its coolness refresh me and its nutrients steady me.
When the overwhelm creeps in, I pause, close my eyes, and place my hand on my chest. Just a few deep breaths to reset. I remind myself: One thing at a time. The rest can wait.
12:30 PM: Afternoon Slump
The midday heat seems to settle in my body, a hot flash flaring up out of nowhere. My energy dips, and I find myself wanting something sweet or caffeinated.
What I Do:
Instead of reaching for a quick fix, I lean on what I know works. Lunch today is simple—a cucumber and avocado salad with a drizzle of olive oil and a side of grilled salmon. The coolness of the cucumber is a balm for my overheated body.
After eating, I step outside for a 10-minute walk. The fresh air helps clear my mind, and my body thanks me for the movement. It’s these little moments, I’ve learned, that make the difference.
3:00 PM: Creative Spark or Fatigue?
By now, I can feel the tug of tiredness. Some days, I power through; other days, I listen to my body and lean into rest.
What I Do:
I grab a handful of almonds and dark chocolate—just enough to give me a little lift. Then, I pull out my journal and jot down a few thoughts. Writing grounds me, reminds me of the stories I carry and the joy of creating.
If I feel up to it, I put on some music and move—just for me. Not for exercise, not for anyone else. It’s a release, a way to shake off the fog and feel alive.
6:00 PM: Evening Calm or Chaos
Evenings are tricky. Some days, I feel accomplished and connected; other days, I feel drained and irritable. Today, it’s a mix of both.
What I Do:
Dinner is light—lentil soup with a side of steamed veggies. I avoid anything heavy or spicy, knowing my body will thank me later. After eating, I join my nephews, Arkin and Rian, for a quiet moment. Their laughter and wonder remind me to let go of the day’s weight and reconnect with the beauty of now.
Later, I unroll my yoga mat for a few yin poses, letting my body melt into the stretch. With every exhale, I feel the tension ease just a little more.
9:30 PM: Bedtime Rituals
As the day winds down, I feel a mix of gratitude and exhaustion. Sleep still feels unpredictable, but I’ve learned to embrace this moment as an act of care for myself.
What I Do:
I unplug from screens and run a warm bath with Epsom salts and lavender. In the quiet of the bathroom, I feel the day washing away, leaving me softer, calmer.
Before bed, I massage Cria into my scalp—a ritual that feels like a love letter to myself. The coolness of the serum and the act of touch anchor me. I sit for a moment, hands resting on my lap, and silently thank my body for carrying me through the day.
I end with gratitude, whispering to myself: Thank you for this day. For the small joys. For the lessons. And as I close my eyes, I hold onto the hope of a restful night and the promise of a new tomorrow.