Many of my creative friends use rituals to enhance their inspiration. Most are as simple as taking a morning walk, sitting outside to read, and getting sunshine on your face, or a slow evening walk to enjoy the sunset.
A ritual is a simple routine of taking time every day to enhance balance, harmony, and meaning to your life. According to Leo Babauta, author and creator of Zen Habits,
"It’s an act of devotion. What would it be like to bring this art of devotion to everything that matters most in our lives?" *
Try This: Embrace the Magic of a Ritual
The concept of a ritual is a routine of taking time every day to enhance balance, harmony, and meaning to your life. Also, it’s an act of devotion, so here are some ideas to create one this week:
- Set the start to your day - whether a cup of coffee out on your porch, exercise by taking a walk in the sunshine or doing yoga at the same time each morning
- Write in a journal - determine a time during the day to sit with your thoughts, take several deep breaths and jot down what comes to mind.
- Quiet time meditation - at the same time each day, sit quietly and breathe deeply with a candle or incense burning, soft music playing, or use a singing bowl.
- Getting ready for sleep - look in the bathroom mirror and ask yourself a discerning question, like "What did I do today that made me smile?"
For the last twenty years, I have walked two miles in the neighborhood every morning. And while I didn’t realize it has been a "ritual," it is something that starts my day with exercise, warmth of the sun, and smiles as I greet neighbors. A great way to start my day.
* Leo Babauta, The Art of Creating a Ritual for What Matters Most, https://zenhabits.net/the-art-of-creating-a-ritual-for-what-matters-most/